Characteristics of Entrepreneurship-Based Curriculum Objectives in the Second Elementary Education System of Iran

Amirreza Nayeri; Amirhossein  Mehdizadeh; Firouz  Kiyoumarsi; Zohreh  Esmailzadeh; Leila Sharifian

doi:10.61838/

Authors

Amirreza Nayeri PhD student in Educational Planning, Department of Educational Sciences, Islamshahr Branch, Islamic Azad University, Islamshahr, Iran

Amirhossein Mehdizadeh * Assistant Professor, Department of Curriculum Planning, Islamic Azad University, Islamshahr Branch, Islamshahr, Iran Amir.hMehdizadeh@yahoo.com

Firouz Kiyoumarsi Assistant Professor, Department of Educational Sciences, Islamshahr Branch, Islamic Azad University, Islamshahr, Iran

Zohreh Esmailzadeh Assistant Professor, Department of Educational Sciences, Islamshahr Branch, Islamic Azad University, Islamshahr, Iran

Leila Sharifian Assistant Professor, Department of Educational Sciences, Islamshahr Branch, Islamic Azad University, Islamshahr, Iran

https://doi.org/10.61838/

Keywords:

Entrepreneurship education, curriculum objectives, elementary education, entrepreneurial skills, qualitative research, educational policy

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this study was to identify the characteristics of entrepreneurship-based curriculum objectives within Iran's second elementary education system.

Methodology: The study employed a qualitative research design with an applied purpose. Data collection involved semi-structured interviews with 25 experts who had significant scientific or practical experience in entrepreneurship education. The sample was selected using purposive judgment sampling until theoretical saturation was achieved. The interviews were analyzed using Strauss and Corbin's open, axial, and selective coding processes to identify key themes and categories related to the research objective.

Findings: The analysis revealed that the characteristics of entrepreneurship-based curriculum objectives in Iran’s second elementary education system fall into three main categories: (1) Strengthening and nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit in students, which includes knowledge and nature of entrepreneurship, development of entrepreneurial characteristics, and acquisition of economic literacy; (2) Raising student awareness about the self-employment process, encompassing opportunities for learning through action and experience, business law education, recognition of business creation opportunities, acquisition of financial skills, and marketing skills; (3) Fostering creative thinking in students, which covers critical thinking, creative thinking, teamwork, problem-solving, risk-taking, and responsibility.

Conclusion: The findings underscore the importance of integrating entrepreneurship education into the elementary curriculum to foster essential entrepreneurial skills and attitudes from a young age.