A systemic approach to entrepreneurial learning: An exploration using storytelling

The promotion of entrepreneurial activity is high on the educational agenda, reflecting economic and political interest and support. However, the study of entrepreneurial learning is characterized by a diffuse and fragmented literature which spans policy, individual learning and business development, with conclusions based on a plethora of methodological approaches. In this paper, a systemic schema is modified and developed to provide a frame of reference for the study of entrepreneurial learning. The paper is based on a study of women's narratives of their experience as small/ micro-enterprise owner/managers in the UK. Theoretical developments concerning the potential usefulness of the schema are discussed; practical implications for the design of entrepreneurship development programmes are also presented. Copyright (C) 2004 John Wiley Sons, Ltd.