Emergent Thinkers™

Stepping into the vibrant halls of Aston University for the ISBE Conference 2023 event, I found myself enveloped in a whirlwind of entrepreneurial wisdom and insights. The recognition of my paper, ‘Immersive Practitioner Inquiry’, as a Best Paper Finalist in the ‘Research Methods, Practice, and Inquiry/Impact (RMPI)’ category was not just an honour for me personally but a nod to the collective endeavour of all those in the field who are pushing the boundaries of understanding through phenomenological inquiry. Celebrating this recognition alongside both long-standing colleagues and new acquaintances amidst the energetic buzz of the conference was truly the icing on the cake and underscored the shared spirit of innovation and discovery in our community.

Established in 1977, The Institute of Small Business and Entrepreneurship‘s contribution to entrepreneurship education has been substantial and multifaceted. By fostering a rich environment for research and discussion, ISBE has significantly influenced the way entrepreneurship is taught and understood. The organisation provides a platform for academics, educators, and practitioners to exchange ideas, research findings, and best practices, thereby enriching the curriculum and pedagogy of entrepreneurship education. This year’s annual conference revolved around the theme of ‘Sustainable Growth in Unexpected Places’, echoing the pioneering thoughts of Edith Penrose and Joseph Schumpeter on the centrality of growth and change in entrepreneurship. My paper and presentation tied into this theme by exploring innovative research methods and shedding light on the intricate world of higher education and entrepreneurial capacity development.

Key Highlights from the ISBE 2023 Conference:

• Emphasis on Dynamic Entrepreneurship: The conference underscored the need for entrepreneurship to leverage human capital, preparing for Industry 5.0 and fostering growth in diverse, often overlooked communities.
• Alignment with UN Sustainable Development Goals and Emphasis on Sustainable Business Practices: The ISBE conference underscored the imperative for business growth to not only thrive economically but also contribute meaningfully to societal welfare. Central to these discussions was the crucial importance of environmentally and socially sustainable development. This emphasis aligns closely with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, reinforcing the integral role that entrepreneurship plays in tackling global challenges and promoting a sustainable future.
• Partnerships for Transformational Impact: The conference advocated for collaborative efforts among entrepreneurs, public, third, and private sectors to address pressing societal issues.

My contribution to the RMPI track, chaired by Dr David Higgins, University of Liverpool, offered a unique perspective on research methods in entrepreneurship. My paper, focusing on a crafted hermeneutic phenomenological inquiry, delved into the experiences of higher education educators in fostering higher-order thinking skills and unlocking entrepreneurial capacity—a crucial aspect for entrepreneurial success in a rapidly evolving world. Through my research method, I aim to bring to light the often-unseen challenges and triumphs of educators in nurturing entrepreneurial capacities. The use of imaginative personas and vignettes in my study provided a nuanced understanding of these experiences, resonating deeply with the conference’s focus on innovative research methods and impactful inquiry.

The ISBE 2023 event was more than a conference; it was a confluence of ideas, inspirations, and a shared vision for a sustainable and inclusive future. I am profoundly grateful for the recognition of my work and am inspired by the collective spirit of innovation and commitment to growth that I experienced.

Felicity

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