This study explores the intersection between university education, the social economy, and social entrepreneurship by conducting a systematic analysis of international academic production. Using quantitative and network analysis techniques, the research identifies trends, influential authors, prominent journals, and emerging thematic clusters in the field. The results highlight the growing importance of social entrepreneurship education, particularly from the second decade of the twenty-first century onward, and underline the strategic role of universities in developing ethical, technical, and social competencies aimed at social transformation. Educational innovation, digitalization, and cross-sector collaboration emerge as key factors in enhancing training practices and aligning academic programs with the complex demands of contemporary society. The study offers a comprehensive and updated overview of the academic landscape, supporting the identification of new opportunities for collaboration and future research. Recent studies also highlight the growing incorporation of digital and artificial intelligence (AI)-based tools in university training, suggesting that emerging technologies may further enhance innovation, collaboration, and the social impact of higher education
The State of Art on the Impact of University Education on the Social Economy and Social Entrepreneurship
Zardini, Alessandro
2026-01-01
Abstract
This study explores the intersection between university education, the social economy, and social entrepreneurship by conducting a systematic analysis of international academic production. Using quantitative and network analysis techniques, the research identifies trends, influential authors, prominent journals, and emerging thematic clusters in the field. The results highlight the growing importance of social entrepreneurship education, particularly from the second decade of the twenty-first century onward, and underline the strategic role of universities in developing ethical, technical, and social competencies aimed at social transformation. Educational innovation, digitalization, and cross-sector collaboration emerge as key factors in enhancing training practices and aligning academic programs with the complex demands of contemporary society. The study offers a comprehensive and updated overview of the academic landscape, supporting the identification of new opportunities for collaboration and future research. Recent studies also highlight the growing incorporation of digital and artificial intelligence (AI)-based tools in university training, suggesting that emerging technologies may further enhance innovation, collaboration, and the social impact of higher educationI documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.


