Bridging Design Thinking and EntreComp for Entrepreneurship Workshops: A Learning Experience

Paper in proceeding, 2020

Design Thinking (DT) is commonly used in Entrepreneurship Education, however it’s capacity to support entrepreneurial competencies has not been explored sufficiently. In this study, we used a multi-method approach to gain an in-depth understanding of participants’ learning journeys in two early entrepreneurship events. These were structured around DT and specifically IDEO’s implementation of Human Centred Design (HCD). Through semi-structured interviews and non-participant observation we were able to link the stages of HCD to specific competencies and identify competencies that manifest across the wider process. We draw conclusions on the contribution of DT in the development of these competencies and make suggestions for using EntreComp to add nuance to DT interventions. Finally we discuss the impact of facilitation, professionalism, customization and logistical factors on the success of DT interventions.