Last modified: 2014-10-24
Abstract
This study, undertaken within the context of multiple objectives and varying measures of success applied by microfinance institutions (MFIs), examines points of commonality and degrees of standards present in basic business education curriculum delivered as a microcredit plus service by microfinance lenders. By comparing the curricula developed and delivered by microfinance institutions of distinct operational categories (NGOs, NBFIs, and Banks), a core set of industry standard content may emerge reflecting curriculum and delivery methods derived from existing practice as well as content grounded in educational theory and appropriate instructional pedagogy. When used to inform basic business education in microfinance, realized contributions could include greater assessment potential leading to more successful lender and borrower experiences. A combined academic perspective has been applied as the conceptual frame, bridging the disciplines of educational theory, business and economic development, and sociology in formation of human capital. The results of this research will further the discourse regarding the provision of microcredit plus services as a crucial component of successful microfinance delivery in multiple contexts, and will support the argument for the consistent inclusion of basic business education and training with microcredit loans.