Game-based Learning and Students’ Entrepreneurial Orientation at Higher Education Institutions in Nigeria

Higher education institutions have assumed a prominent role in entrepreneurship education and economic development. Entrepreneurship learning through game-based (simulation) may promote education for sustainable development. Several theoretical perspectives, argue that entrepreneurship education influences the entrepreneurial orientation of students, as it inspires them to pursue their entrepreneurial ambitions and gives them the necessary knowledge and abilities. This study aimed to measure the influence of game-based learning on entrepreneurial orientation. Specifically, this study focused on understanding Entrepreneurial Orientation (EO) dimensions of autonomy, proactiveness, innovativeness, competitive aggressiveness and risk taking, across students of higher education institutions in Kano state, Nigeria. This study uses survey-based data collection from colleges of education, polytechnics and universities. The findings of this study suggest that game-based learning has positive influence on entrepreneurial orientation of students in higher education institutions. However, if higher institutions want optimal impact of game-based learning on entrepreneurial skills, the game-based (simulation) should be tailored to capture the technicality of each discipline or course of study. Hence, the findings suggest that institutions of higher learning should include structured game-based learning in their entrepreneurship training and entrepreneurship education programs. This will enhance entrepreneurial mindset, which will foster venture creation and self-employment.