An Exploration of Entrepreneurial Leadership Education Program Practices From the Perspective of Entrepreneurial Leaders: A Qualitative Case Study

Abstract

This dissertation is a qualitative case study exploring the need for change in entrepreneurial leadership education from the entrepreneur's perspective. The study conducted through a panel discussion of entrepreneurs, individual interviews of entrepreneurs, and notes of the researcher from the panel discussion and interviews revealed findings related to the need for exercises in failing forward, opportunity recognition, and the need for advisors and mentors throughout the academic and entrepreneurial journey. The research question “what are the necessary practices of entrepreneurial leadership educational programs in terms of curriculum and pedagogy and the opportunities for improvement from the entrepreneurial leader perspective with the goal of poverty reduction?” revealed through the collection and analysis of the data suggests additional content and improved pedagogy for entrepreneurial leadership education programs. Furthermore, this study outlines suggested changes to curriculum and pedagogy in an effort to reduce global poverty through entrepreneurship. Keywords: entrepreneur, entrepreneurship, education, leadership, failing forward, opportunity recognition, mentor.