Co-authors Birgitte Wraae and Nicolai Nybye have recently published an insightful research article titled “Learning to Be “Me,” “the Team,” and “the Company” Through Entrepreneurial Extracurricular Activities: An Ethnographic Approach” in Entrepreneurship Education and Pedagogy. The article delves into the world of entrepreneurial extracurricular activities and how they can shape individuals to become successful entrepreneurs.
The inspiration behind this research came from the authors’ personal experiences with entrepreneurship. Both Wraae and Nybye have a background in entrepreneurship and have been involved in various extracurricular activities related to it. They wanted to understand how these activities can impact individuals and their entrepreneurial mindset.
Through their research, Wraae and Nybye used an ethnographic approach to explore the world of entrepreneurial extracurricular activities. This approach allowed them to immerse themselves in the environment and observe the participants’ behaviors, attitudes, and interactions. They also conducted interviews and focus groups to gain a deeper understanding of the individuals’ experiences.
One of the key findings of their research was the impact of these activities on individuals’ sense of self. Wraae and Nybye found that participating in entrepreneurial extracurricular activities helped individuals develop a stronger sense of self and identity. They were able to discover their strengths, weaknesses, and passions, which are crucial for success in entrepreneurship.
Moreover, these activities also fostered a sense of teamwork among the participants. As they worked together to solve problems and create innovative solutions, they learned the importance of collaboration and communication. This is a vital skill for entrepreneurs as they often have to work with a team to bring their ideas to life.
But it wasn’t just about the individual and the team; Wraae and Nybye also found that these activities had a significant impact on the company. By participating in extracurricular activities, individuals were able to understand the inner workings of a business and the challenges that come with it. This knowledge is crucial for anyone looking to start their own business.
The authors also found that these activities provided a safe space for individuals to experiment and take risks. In the world of entrepreneurship, failure is inevitable, but it is also a crucial part of the learning process. By participating in extracurricular activities, individuals were able to fail in a controlled environment and learn from their mistakes. This helped them develop a resilient mindset, which is essential for success in the entrepreneurial world.
Wraae and Nybye’s research sheds light on the importance of entrepreneurial extracurricular activities in shaping individuals to become successful entrepreneurs. These activities not only provide practical skills but also help individuals develop a strong sense of self, teamwork, and resilience.
Their research also highlights the significance of ethnography in understanding complex social phenomena. By immersing themselves in the environment, Wraae and Nybye were able to capture the nuances of the participants’ experiences and gain a deeper understanding of the impact of these activities.
The publication of this research in Entrepreneurship Education and Pedagogy is a significant contribution to the field of entrepreneurship education. It provides valuable insights for educators and policymakers to design effective extracurricular activities that can help individuals develop an entrepreneurial mindset.
Moreover, this research also has practical implications for individuals interested in entrepreneurship. It highlights the importance of actively seeking out extracurricular activities related to entrepreneurship and taking advantage of the learning opportunities they provide.
In conclusion, Wraae and Nybye’s research on entrepreneurial extracurricular activities is a valuable addition to the field of entrepreneurship education. It not only provides a deeper understanding of the impact of these activities but also highlights the significance of ethnography in studying complex social phenomena. This research has the potential to inspire and motivate individuals to actively participate in extracurricular activities and develop the skills and mindset needed for success in entrepreneurship.
