Entrepreneurship Education Project in Vocational Education Programs. Survey of Program Coordinators.

Overview & Synopsis

A survey determined the effectiveness of entrepreneurship education within Iowa school systems. Twenty-four teacher/participants in inservice secondary and postsecondary vocational education training who requested and received PACE (Program for Acquiring Competence in Entrepreneurship) materials were surveyed with a 92 percent response rate. Seventy-seven percent of the respondents indicated that units were available. Sixty-four percent had received training during the past 3 years. A total of 1,110 students received instruction each year. Seventy-three percent of the students had a realistic option of going into business. Twenty-one respondents said that activities are managed individually. Results indicated that practicing entrepreneurs are involved in teacher education programs. Understanding alternative methods of becoming an owner and assessing personal strengths, weaknesses, and resources for career decision making were the most important skills required. The most effective way of providing education was to integrate courses within a vocational program. Fifty percent believed that adequate entrepreneurship education is readily available. (Six recommendations are listed for Iowa's vocational education programs: course development; broader programs; additional inservice training; expanded awareness; more instructional materials; and increased student awareness. Appendix A contains the survey form for program coordinators of entrepreneurship education in vocational education and appendix B contains survey responses.) (NLA)