An Exploration of Experiential Learning in Social Entrepreneurship

Abstract

Experiential learning is key to creating a more valuable learning outcome for everyone involved. While we know value exists in these types of courses, we know little about what specific value is created for the stakeholders. Accordingly, I focus on a social venture consulting course at Northern Illinois University, adopt a qualitative, inductive methodology, and collect interview data from key actors involved in the course to study the value that is derived from this type of educational environment. My findings illustrate four aggregate dimensions (course development, expectations of stakeholders, experience of stakeholders, and outcomes) that shed light on what value an experiential learning course in social entrepreneurship generates for its stakeholders. I conclude with a discussion of my study’s contributions to research streams on social entrepreneurship and experiential learning.