Innovate, educate to entrepreneurship: experiential curriculum, multiple intelligences cultivation and business literacy in the American Farm School of Thessaloniki

Abstract

This thesis explores how students at the American Farm School experience its unique educational model, inspired by the vision of its founder, Dr. John Henry House, with a particular emphasis on experiential learning, entrepreneurship, creativity, and the holistic development of their skills. Through qualitative research and the analysis of two focus group discussions, the study captures student experiences and perspectives that shed light on the school’s educational impact. The findings highlight the ongoing evolution of Dr. House’s pedagogical approach, which fosters multiple intelligences, innovation, sustainability, and the strengthening of students’ personal and social identities. Special attention is given to the integration of business literacy within vocational education and its alignment with the principles of educating global citizens for the 21st century. However, the study also raises concerns regarding the program’s workload and the need for a better balance between academic and extracurricular activities offered by the American Farm School. The thesis concludes with suggestions for improving the curriculum and proposes the expansion of the research at the doctoral level, aiming to further deepen both theoretical and empirical understanding of experiential education.