Development of Soft Skills in Entrepreneurship Education: an Approach Based on Experiential Learning Theory

Objective: The objective of this study is to investigate the impact of entrepreneurship education on the development of soft skills in students, using experiential learning theory (ELT) as a foundation to foster these skills through active practices. Theoretical Framework: The study is based on Kolb's (1984) experiential learning theory and active learning models. These theories provide a solid foundation for understanding how learning occurs through experience, emphasizing the development of soft skills. Method: The research follows a qualitative and exploratory approach, with data collection based on bibliographic review and participant observation. The study was conducted in entrepreneurship courses, focusing on the observation of students' soft skills through the application of Kolb’s experiential learning cycle. Results and Discussion: The results show that the application of ELT in entrepreneurship education promotes the development of soft skills. The theoretical and practical implications are discussed in light of experiential learning theory, highlighting the importance of an active approach to education. Research Implications: The research has important implications for the fields of education and entrepreneurship, suggesting that experiential teaching can be an effective tool for developing essential behavioral skills for the labor market. Originality/Value: The study contributes by demonstrating the applicability of ELT in entrepreneurship education, addressing the gap between traditional teaching and the need to develop soft skills in academic contexts.