A conceptual framework for adopting micro-credentials for skills development of South African entrepreneurs

Abstract

One of the main driving forces that fuels a business venture to be successful, is the skills of the entrepreneur and how the skills are applied into the business. Without adequate skills, entrepreneurs are bound to experience inevitable failure. This research study aims to address this issue by focusing on how micro-credentials (an emerging educational technology not yet widely explored in the context of entrepreneurial skills development) can be used by South African entrepreneurs for their skills development. The possession of core entrepreneurial skills and the knowledge to apply the skills effectively, has potential to steer entrepreneurs in the direction of success and sustainability. Fourteen interviews were conducted for this research study and findings showed that entrepreneurs recognise that there is a need for skills development and micro-credentials are capable of fulfilling that need. The collected data was analysed through the thematic analysis method, examined, and synthesised to produce a conceptual framework for micro-credential adoption.