Developing Core Competencies of Sme Managers Using Heutagogy Principles

What are the most effective ways of educating today ́s young SME managers and entrepreneurs? How can a formal tertiary education institution become a good supporter and partner in developing the most important entrepreneurial skills for managing modern SMEs in the environment of global competition? In today’s world of constant hunting down for innovation it is getting obvious that learning and developing of entrepreneurial skills at the early stage is becoming vital for most new SME managers. Czech tertiary institutions are often criticized for not meeting the increasing market needs for changing knowledge and skills especially in SME management. Effective development of entrepreneurial skills requires changes in approach toward traditional learning from both sides – from educator and from students as well. Heutagogy was developed and introduces in 1999 as a learner-centered and self-determined concept, which encourages students to become more proactive during their learning process. With information more easily accessible and students capable of using modern technologies, the classes are becoming more a place of sharing and discussing rather than traditional knowledge transferring. This is also accelerated by the fact that many students of entrepreneurship and SME management often start their working career while still studying. First experience with using principles of heutagogy in entrepreneurship and SME management education shows very promising direction.