This is the Santander X Explorer Methodology

Every time we talk about** the methodology we use in Santander X Explorer,** we wonder whether the changes introduced (almost in every edition) **will be understood as a natural evolution or, on the contrary, perceived as excessive. Fortunately, **the feedback and contributions we receive from those involved in the programme (especially from the Coordinators, who are in direct contact with participants) tell us that we are moving in the right direction.

Thanks to this ability to adapt, we can speak of a methodology composed of many interrelated elements and tools. Here is a summary: click the links to learn more about each of them.

Three core pillars shape our methodology: social learning, learning by doing, and flipped learning.

Entrecomp Framework. This framework sets out 15 competency areas linked to entrepreneurship, which we have adapted so that Explorers can use them as a self-assessment tool. This allows both them and us to track their progress and outline proposals to support their development.

WhatsApp. To communicate with participants, we needed to use their preferred channels. Using WhatsApp as a learning tool has been a challenge, but organising Explorers into groups ensures they are accompanied from day one. The development process has also led us to use it for programme onboarding: through simple questions and buttons to confirm answers, participants are guided through videos, audio messages, useful posts and, of course, the handbook and calendar. All without leaving WhatsApp, keeping them in an environment where they naturally connect with their peers.

How Generation Z learns. We also wanted to get closer to the Explorers by** “speaking” **their language, so we adapted the programme to match what they expect from a training experience, proposing, for example,** deadlines: they build a sense of responsibility and help avoid procrastination. **Likewise, we have had to challenge their expectations around validation,** encouraging them to find support within the community** rather than waiting for someone to tell them what is right or wrong. In entrepreneurship, you must go out and seek the answers —not wait passively for them to arrive.

Explorer Coach. Observing current trends has taught us even more: the growing concern for mental health prompted us to launch a podcast which, throughout the 12 weeks of Santander X Explorer, focuses on entrepreneurs’ self-care, offering advice and tips tailored to each phase of the programme.

My Achievements. One of the most recent additions is the achievement system, created to boost participant engagement. It is based on a language they know well: gamification. Reward by reward, it builds a connection with Santander X Explorer that results in better use of our greatest asset:** the community.**

Communicating entrepreneurship with a gender perspective. Although not strictly part of the methodology, our ongoing effort to communicate in a way that helps close the gender gap is present across all our content and activities. Removing biases, showcasing women as role models, and applying a 360º perspective to entrepreneurship models are just some of the measures we use.

And for universities…

The other stakeholders involved in the programme (universities, Coordinators and Experts) play a crucial role, and we therefore aim to create methods and systems that make their work easier. Whenever we believe it can be useful, we offer tips to help them:

• Attract entrepreneurial talent.

• Enable universities to get involved in different ways.

• Recognise and reward the role of Coordinators based on a set of criteria.

Likewise, with the intention of serving as a guide, we establish our position on issues that remain controversial, such as the** use of ChatGPT**, and** propose examples of best practices.** Or better yet, discover it for yourself: take a look at the Methodology section of our blog.