Fostering Entrepreneurial Mindset in Media Education: A Framework for Preparing Students for the Future

Introduction

This chapter explores the role and importance of entrepreneurial mindset in education evolving media and communication landscape, emphasizing the necessity of fostering the mindset. Entrepreneurial mindset provides a framework to equip students with skills for the changing media industry, driven by technology and evolving consumer behaviours. As traditional media roles shift, new opportunities arise for adaptable and innovative individuals. Advocating for a paradigm shift in media education, the chapter suggests integrating entrepreneurial principles to prepare students for upcoming challenges and opportunities. The proposed framework emphasizes developing key entrepreneurial competencies. These competencies include creativity, critical thinking, adaptability, collaboration, and a proactive approach to problem-solving (Halberstadt et.al, 2019). By embedding these skills within media education, students are empowered to think beyond the confines of traditional roles and explore innovative solutions to contemporary media challenges. The framework proposes strategies for creating a supportive environment that encourages experimentation, learning from failure, and iterating on ideas—a departure from traditional educational approaches that may stigmatize mistakes. The integration of technology and digital literacy is another cornerstone of the framework presented in this chapter. In a media landscape dominated by digital platforms and emerging technologies, students must be equipped with the skills to leverage these tools effectively. This chapter advocates for a proactive shift in media education towards fostering an entrepreneurial mindset. By integrating entrepreneurial principles, emphasizing experiential learning, promoting a culture of risk-taking, and incorporating digital literacy, educators can empower students to not only adapt to the evolving media landscape but also to shape its future. The proposed framework provides a roadmap for media educators to cultivate the next generation of innovative and adaptable professionals who will thrive in the dynamic and entrepreneurial world of media and communication.

The emergencies of the modern media landscape necessitate a paradigm shift in media education (Koul & Nayar, 2021). The evolving landscape of media and the rise of new media have indeed opened up opportunities for media professionals in various sectors beyond traditional media industries. The demand for skills such as content creation, digital marketing, social media management, and multimedia production has surged across different fields. This demand is powered by the increasing importance of online presence and digital communication in today's world. The media skills are increasingly becoming interdisciplinary, blending elements of communication, technology, and design. This makes these skills applicable and valuable in a wide range of industries. Non-media graduates often bring diverse perspectives and skills that can enhance the creative and strategic aspects of media-related roles. Many individuals from non-media backgrounds have a genuine interest in media-related activities (O’Brien & Arnold, 2022). They may have developed a passion for content creation, storytelling, or digital communication through personal experiences or hobbies. As a result, they seek opportunities to apply these interests in their professional lives. The availability of online courses, tutorials, and do-it-yourself (DIY) methods for learning media skills has democratized education in this field (Bhatia, et. al, 2023). Anyone with an internet connection can access resources to enhance their skills, regardless of their formal educational background. This has empowered individuals to pursue careers in media without a traditional media education. In a rapidly changing digital landscape, the ability to quickly adapt to new technologies and platforms is crucial. The non-media graduates may bring fresh perspectives and innovative approaches to media roles, contributing to the industry's growth and evolution.

As non-media graduates enter the field, media graduates may face heightened competition for roles that were traditionally associated with media education (O’Brien et, al, 2021). The diverse skill sets of non-media graduates might appeal to employers, potentially making it more challenging for media graduates to stand out.