The European Commission’s Entrepreneurship Competence Framework, also known as ENTRECOMP, is a comprehensive guide that identifies the skills and attitudes essential for entrepreneurial success. In an era where visual communication dominates digital media, the relevance of visual literacy within this framework becomes increasingly significant.
Visual literacy, the ability to comprehend, interpret, and communicate using visual content, is a crucial aspect of today’s entrepreneurial landscape. It transcends the barriers of language and literacy, offering a universally understandable mode of communication. It has the potential to make complex ideas accessible, amplify the impact of messages, and foster deeper connections with audiences.
Within the ENTRECOMP framework, the importance of visual literacy is reflected across the three competency areas – Ideas and Opportunities, Resources, and Into Action. For instance, visual literacy helps in opportunity recognition (Ideas and Opportunities), by enabling entrepreneurs to interpret visual data and trends to identify business prospects. In terms of Resources, it aids in visualizing business plans or models, making them easier to understand and share with others. And when it comes to putting ideas into action, visual literacy can play a vital role in creating compelling marketing content or delivering impactful presentations.
Moreover, ENTRECOMP emphasizes skills like creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving, all of which can be greatly enhanced through visual literacy. By stimulating visual thinking, entrepreneurs can unleash their creativity, explore different perspectives, and find innovative solutions to problems.
The INVOLVE project, recognizing this connection, aims to integrate visual literacy training into the adult entrepreneurship education curriculum in line with the ENTRECOMP framework. By doing so, we hope to enhance the visual competence of entrepreneurs, enabling them to effectively use visuals in their entrepreneurial journey.
Through initiatives such as the INVOLVE Toolkit and the Visual Literacy for Entrepreneurs online course, we aim to equip entrepreneurs with the resources and knowledge they need to harness the power of visual communication. The ultimate goal is to cultivate a new generation of visually literate entrepreneurs who can navigate the digital landscape effectively and achieve greater success in their ventures.
In conclusion, visual literacy, though not explicitly stated in the ENTRECOMP framework, is implicitly woven into its fabric. In the digital age, its relevance in fostering entrepreneurial competences is undeniable. By recognizing and harnessing this relevance, we can redefine the future of entrepreneurship education and elevate the potential of entrepreneurs across the EU.
