Why Didn’t I Think of That? A Classroom Exercise for Developing Entrepreneurial Thinking

Abstract

Entrepreneurs tend to think differently, juggling different thinking styles more easily than others. They are comfortable with both linear and non-linear thinking, and both causal and effectual logic. In order to help students develop diverse entrepreneurial thinking skills, teachers must employ unique educational strategies. This article provides educators with an engaging openmarket trading card activity that was created to help students identify and overcome barriers to entrepreneurial thinking. Designed for strategy and entrepreneurship classes at the undergraduate and graduate level, this activity challenges students' mental models and sets the stage for a fruitful discussion about entrepreneurial thinking. Trading Card Activity Entrepreneurial thinking can be developed through effective training and practice. This specific activity provides such practice while implementing all of the important elements of a game, including competition