Cultivating global entrepreneurship

Abstract

Questions We Care About - Objectives
In the rapidly globalizing world, entrepreneurship education faces the challenge of preparing future leaders who can navigate the complexities of diverse cultural landscapes. This paper addresses the critical gap in current entrepreneurship programs by integrating Cultural Intelligence (CQ) into the curriculum. The primary objective is to explore how a more profound incorporation of CQ can enhance students’ entrepreneurial capabilities, preparing them for success in the international market.

Approach
The research adopts a mixed-methods approach, combining a comprehensive literature review, semi-structured interviews, and analysis of course material from the Minor in International Entrepreneurship and Development at TU Delft. The literature review establishes a foundation for understanding the significance of CQ in global entrepreneurship. The semi-structured interviews with students participating in the minor provide insights into their pre-departure preparation and experiences abroad. Course materials are analyzed through the lens of the Cultural Intelligence Scale (CQS) to identify gaps and opportunities for integrating CQ into the curriculum.

Results
The findings reveal that while students are prepared in CQ Knowledge, there is a significant opportunity to enhance their CQ Strategy, Drive, and Action skills. Interviews indicated that students with previous international experience displayed a higher level of CQ in strategizing and adapting their behaviour in culturally diverse environments. However, the analysis of course material suggests that the current curriculum focuses predominantly on CQ knowledge, with limited activities designed to develop Strategy, Drive, and Action components of CQ.

Implications
The research highlights the importance of experiential learning in developing CQ among entrepreneurship students. Students can enhance their ability to adapt and innovate across cultural boundaries by engaging in real-world projects in culturally diverse settings. The findings suggest incorporating structured CQ training and experiential learning opportunities into the entrepreneurship curriculum, aiding students’ preparedness for global entrepreneurship.

Originality
This paper contributes to the growing discourse on the necessity of CQ in entrepreneurship education. By integrating CQ into the curriculum, educators can provide students with the tools they need to succeed in the global market. This research offers practical recommendations for curriculum development, emphasizing the role of experiential learning in cultivating cultural intelligence. The unique contribution of this study lies in its comprehensive approach to evaluating and enhancing CQ within an established entrepreneurship program, providing valuable insights for educators and program designers aiming to prepare the next generation of global entrepreneurs.