An application of Hofstede’s cultural dimensions and golden circle in entrepreneurship education

Abstract

Background: Entrepreneurship education has become an important issue worldwide, originating mainly in the United States (US) and the United Kingdom (UK). Different methods have been used to teach entrepreneurship, often without considering local circumstances, which is particularly important in sub-Saharan Africa with its diverse cultures. Therefore, comparing the impact of cultural differences in teaching entrepreneurship education in Western Europe and sub-Saharan African countries is crucial to overcoming such challenges.

Aim: This article aims to compare the impact of cultural differences in teaching entrepreneurship education in Western Europe and sub-Saharan African countries with the aim of designing appropriate entrepreneurship education programmes and approaches to the specific cultural contexts.

Setting: The study compares the impact of cultural differences in Western Europe (US and UK) and sub-Saharan African countries.

Methods: A literature review descriptive study of the impact of cultural differences in teaching entrepreneurship education in Western Europe and sub-Saharan Africa was adopted. Secondary analysis using Hofstede’s cultural dimensions’ model was used for analysis.

Results: The main cultural differences are in the dimensions of individualism versus collectivism and power distance. Incorporating team-based learning and focusing on business ideas with a positive collective impact in sub-Saharan Africa can lead to more effective entrepreneurship education.

Conclusion: It is crucial to adapt entrepreneurship education approaches to the specific cultural contexts of regions. Using a framework with four guide questions for whom, why, what and how can support the development of programmes.

Contribution: Future education programmes can be designed based on a proposed golden circle.