Chapter 8: Developing entrepreneurial mindsets through an arts-based playful project-based learning workshop

This chapter explores how entrepreneurial mindsets – a key contributor to entrepreneurial learning (EL) – can be developed through participation in an arts-based playful project-based learning (PPrBL) workshop. The research addresses challenges in the South African education system that often limit creativity and critical thinking because of rigid, teacher-centred learning approaches. The authors argue for the merits of using experiential, arts-based methodologies to promote critical skills such as problem-solving, collaboration and self-management among teachers who can then also transfer these skills to their learners. Intermediate Phase teachers in the North West province, South Africa, participated in an arts-based PPrBL workshop, where they co-created projects that addressed real-world socio-economic issues using arts-based methods such as storytelling, music, collage and poster design. The study aimed to build their capacity to implement arts-based PPrBL strategies in their classrooms. The findings that emerged from this study demonstrate that arts-based PPrBL could contribute to fostering self-directed entrepreneurial learning (SDEL) among the teachers. Participants highlighted potential challenges in applying arts-based PPrBL in South Africa, including resource limitations and integrating PPrBL into existing curricula. However, despite these potential challenges, arts-based PPrBL has significant potential to foster autonomy, authentic learning, creativity and responsibility. It could prepare learners for future socio-economic participation if teachers effectively integrate it into their teaching and learning practices. Further research is needed to explore the application of arts-based PPrBL across various disciplines and school phases.