Action learning entrepreneurship regulation theory: Providing answers and imagination to (self)regulate entrepreneurial-learning

Abstract

The European Union (EU) has made entrepreneurship promotion a top priority and is encouraging countries to implement entrepreneurial learning across their education and training systems (European Commission 2010). However, there are few examples how to regulate the entrepreneurial learning process. The aim of this study is to present answers and imagination on how to (self)regulate entrepreneurial learning, based on testing Action Regulation Theory in a game-based learning environment. In total 406 persons were tested in 19 groups with at least 9 and on average 21 participants. Action Learning Entrepreneurship Regulation Theory or ALERT is a theory elaborated, using our LEGO-role-game-simulations, as a specification of Action Regulation Theory (ART). ART explains entrepreneurship from a psychological point of view: entrepreneurial actions that are mentally regulated. ALERT explains the game-based learning consequences for teaching entrepreneurship.Entrepreneurship learning actions are subject to regulation: rules and principles to control, direct, and manage the entrepreneurial learning processes. Like the Dutch regulated their rivers with dykes and canalisation. The aim of this paper is to provide answers and imagination, showing examples, on the questions on how to (self)regulate entrepreneurship learning processes:-For a process characterized by sequenced phases of actions, to regulate by monitoring the development of creating added value in this sequence.-For a context characterized by self-starting, proactive and overcoming barriers, to regulate hierarchical levels of self-regulation in all phases of the sequence of actions.Teaching is different from learning: the process and the context have to evoke and challenge the entrepreneurial learning process. Because (self)regulation is different from telling how, like the Entreprenasium-student on her entrepreneurial teaching context, 2018 AD said: “I can imagine by myself, and determine by myself”.