Role of engineering major in entrepreneurial intentions of engineering students: a case of Pakistan

2020 ◽  
Vol 62 (7/8) ◽  
pp. 965-978
Author(s):  
Muhammad Zubair Alam ◽  
Ahmad Raza Bilal ◽  
Saba Sabir ◽  
Muhammad Ali Kaleem

PurposeThe dynamic global environment has increased the requirement of multidisciplinary entrepreneurial engineers. While studying entrepreneurial aspects of engineers, researchers have not considered inherent variability due to engineering majors. This study investigates the impact of entrepreneurial motivation (EM) on entrepreneurial intentions (EIs), to analyse the inherent entrepreneurial potential of engineering majors. The impact of entrepreneurial education has also been studied to proffer recommendations for policymakers.Design/methodology/approachThe design of this study is a survey conducted with 342 undergraduate students from three major engineering institutions in Pakistan using a close-structured questionnaire. Moderation analysis examines the entrepreneurial potential of different engineering majors. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) has been conducted to compare the EIs of different engineering majors and regarding the impact of entrepreneurial education on EIs.FindingsThe engineering major's role in the transformation of EM to EIs is multifaceted. EIs of students of a few engineering majors were found high. Entrepreneurship education improves the overall EIs of engineering students.Practical implicationsOutcomes of the study are useful for academia and policymakers to engage students of particular engineering majors, identified as entrepreneurial, in advanced entrepreneurial education and expose them to potential start-ups to have better value addition in specific sectors.Originality/valueThis is the first study in which engineering majors have been examined to bring insights about inherent entrepreneurial potential. This inherent entrepreneurial potential needs further exploration by academic researchers. The study has provided the base for future studies to institutionalize entrepreneurial education for different engineering majors.

2015 ◽  
Vol 7 (2) ◽  
pp. 168-188 ◽  
Author(s):  
Lalit Sharma

Purpose – The prime purpose of the study is to assess the role of education in general and entrepreneurship education in particular in developing youth entrepreneurship in Uttarakhand State, India. The study also tested the methodology based on effectiveness and compared it with the traditional ex post method to find if there is any difference in results. Alternatively, the study also checked whether the students of developing economies are more likely to take up entrepreneurship as a career, which has strongly been contended by some of the recent studies. Design/methodology/approach – The role of education was assessed on two grounds: increase in general awareness and knowledge about entrepreneurship, and development of entrepreneurial intentions and inclination of students. A structured questionnaire was administered on 530 final-year students. The questionnaire tested the interest and intentions of students towards taking up entrepreneurship as a career and also evaluated the level of awareness and knowledge of entrepreneurship among the students. Cross-tabulation, mean values and t-test were used to analyse the results. Findings – The research confirmed that higher education institutions (HEIs) of Uttarakhand have not been very effective in building entrepreneurial awareness and knowledge level of students. Students who studied entrepreneurship subject showed a little better awareness and knowledge level of entrepreneurship, which was found to be statistically significant in comparison to their counterparts, but the mean scores indicated poor knowledge level. As the authors used an ex post method and method based on effectiveness of entrepreneurship education, the authors got two different results for impact of entrepreneurship education on entrepreneurial intentions. More appropriate one being that with the observed level of awareness and knowledge level of entrepreneurship (which was very low); the authors cannot possibly determine the actual impact of entrepreneurial education on entrepreneurial intentions. Practical implications – The research has direct implications for research scholars working in the field of determining the impact of entrepreneurship education on entrepreneurial intentions, entrepreneurship education institutions and also the policymakers. Originality/value – In comparison to most of the earlier studies done to find the impact of entrepreneurship education on entrepreneurial intentions, this study differs in its methodological approach and first of all evaluates the effectiveness and impact of entrepreneurial education in developing entrepreneurial awareness and knowledge of student. The author undertakes that if entrepreneurship education is ineffective in developing the desired level of awareness and knowledge of entrepreneurship, the actual effect of entrepreneurial education on entrepreneurial intentions cannot actually be determined and the authors may not be able to get accurate outcomes of such studies. To justify the stand, author compares the traditional ex post approach with the approach based on effectiveness of the programme and brings into light the difference in outcomes. The proposed approach rests on the premises that education must be absorbed and not just delivered to assess its impact.


2018 ◽  
Vol 10 (3) ◽  
pp. 76 ◽  
Author(s):  
Temoor Anjum ◽  
Sara Ravan Ramzani ◽  
Muhammad Farrukh ◽  
Valliappan Raju ◽  
Nida Nazar ◽  
...  

The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of entrepreneurial education on entrepreneurial intentions of the university students, moreover, a mediating role of  Entrepreneurial Passion, Perceived Creativity Disposition and Entrepreneurial Passion was also assessed. Data were collected from 595 university students; Partial least square technique was used with the help of SmartPLS software. Results of partial least square structural equation modeling showed that all the hypothesized direct and indirect relationship were supported. Possible implications for theory and practice are discussed in detailed.


2016 ◽  
Vol 17 (3) ◽  
pp. 243-255 ◽  
Author(s):  
Atefeh Yazdanparast ◽  
Mathew Joseph ◽  
Fernanda Muniz

Purpose The present research investigates the influence of brand-based social media marketing (SMM) activities on metrics of consumer-based brand equity (CBBE). Specifically, the study examines the role of consumer-brand social media experiences on attitude toward SMM activities of brands and its consequent impact on brand perceptions. Design/methodology/approach Paper-and-pencil surveys were administered to undergraduate students in a Southwestern university in exchange for extra credit. Survey questions were adapted from previously validated scales, and measurement adaptations were minimal and only related to the context of questions to assure their relevance with the context of this study. Bi-variate correlation, bootstrapping technique, Sobel test, ANOVA and linear regression were used to test the hypotheses. Findings The results indicate that brand-based SMM is essential in impacting consumers’ attitudes toward brands and consequently, CBBE reflected via perceived value for the cost, perceived uniqueness and the willingness to pay a price premium for a brand. Additionally, the main reason for individuals to use social media impacts their attitudes toward and receptiveness of SMM activities of brands. Research limitations/implications This study used a sample of college students to address the research questions. Considering the higher adoption rate and interest in social media among younger consumer groups, the results may not be representative of the entire population. Much of the existing research on social media, however, has focused on undergraduate college students and is primarily based on studies utilizing the similar research population. Originality/value The present research is one of the few studies that empirically examine the impact of consumer-brand interactions/experiences on consumers’ attitudes toward SMM activities of brands, as well as brand-related knowledge and perceptions as reflected by CBBE. The results indicate that the CBBE model of the twenty-first century should incorporate the role of brand-based SMM activities as facilitators of brand knowledge (i.e. brand awareness and brand image) by reinforcing or even shaping important brand-based associations.


2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Navjot Sandhu ◽  
Javed Hussain

PurposeThis paper investigates the mediating role of access to finance and entrepreneurial education for small and marginal farmers (SMFs) in the Indian northern state of Punjab. Furthermore, it examines the inter-mediatory role of entrepreneurs and the access to finance in the promotion of innovation, development and consequently poverty alleviation.Design/methodology/approachTo gain a deeper insight, we used a purposive sampling technique, involving in-depth, face-to-face interviews based on a semi-structured questionnaire amongst 185 farmers from the state of the Punjab in India. The combination of open ended and dichotomous questions amenable to the Likert scale, captured responses and the transcribed questionnaires were thematically analysed.FindingsUsing the analysis of the quantitative and qualitative responses, we explain the cause and consequences of the finance gap and the impact of poverty on household income and the debt levels of SMFs. The findings suggest that the expanding pool of SMFs is due to land ownership fragmentation that disenfranchises SMFs from accessing adequate finance thus limiting their ability to adapt to technological innovations, and therefore limiting their productivity and growth. This essentially limits their ability to transform their economic and social wellbeing. The findings from the data analysis suggest a lack of access to finance negatively impacts on SMFs' ability to use innovative practices, technologies and productivity. This adversely affects income level, access to education and social goods to propel them out of poverty. The findings advocate that government policy should focus on land reforms, which provide adequate access to finance to enable the adaption of technology and an access to markets to empower marginal farmers.Research limitations/implicationsLand fragmentation resulting with population growth in emerging economies continuously expands SMFs. To improve efficiency, productivity and entrepreneurial traits amongst SMFs, it is a pre-requisite to have an agile economy. However, in emerging economies such as India, the responses of 185 farmers suggest, a bespoke policy to promote the interest of SMFs through enabling them access to finance, technologies, training and education, continues to prove elusive. This novel empirical research provides evidence that demands that policymakers, commercial institutions and donors need to respond to the needs of SMFs to ensure food security and an optimal utilisation of farmland. The limitation of this research is that the sample is from one country, which limits its generalisation. The findings of this study could be enhanced by conducting comparative studies in other regions or economies.Originality/valueThis empirical study examined the barriers to enterprise for SMFs in the Indian Punjab; it examined the causes and consequences and the implications for food security for India. The findings of this study highlight the importance of developing the entrepreneurial capabilities of SMFs through effective education, training and above all through an adequate access to finance to enable them to adapt their technology. Furthermore, the findings make a case as to why SMFs are an integral part of the food chain and why it is necessary to enhance their efficiency, productivity and their access to finance.


2019 ◽  
Vol 11 (16) ◽  
pp. 4314 ◽  
Author(s):  
Grigorios Asimakopoulos ◽  
Virginia Hernández ◽  
Javier Peña Miguel

This paper examines the impact of entrepreneurial education on intention to undertake entrepreneurial activity in the future. The study is based on a sample of 208 engineering students. Specifically, we explore the contingent effect of social norms on the relationship between entrepreneurial education and intention to undertake entrepreneurial activity, as well as the role of social norms on the association between entrepreneurial self-efficacy and entrepreneurial intention. We utilize a comprehensive questionnaire distributed among engineering students. Our findings indicate that entrepreneurial education is positively associated with the intention to undertake entrepreneurial activity, in addition to demonstrating a positive moderation effect role of social norms on the relationship between entrepreneurial self-efficacy and entrepreneurial intention. The study provides empirical support to devise new educational initiatives that can further support students and young entrepreneurs in their current or future entrepreneurial projects


2018 ◽  
Vol 10 (1) ◽  
pp. 92-107 ◽  
Author(s):  
Diego Passoni ◽  
Rafael Bianchini Glavam

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to compare the levels of entrepreneurial intention (EI) among academics from different fields of university knowledge and to evaluate the effect of entrepreneurial education (EE) on students taking management, engineering and accounting courses. Design/methodology/approach A survey has been conducted with 491 academics from different fields of knowledge at the Brazilian undergraduate level to compare their EI levels and to validate the effect of EE in the EI in management, engineering and accounting courses. Findings This study has demonstrated that EE has a positive effect on EI among undergraduate management and engineering students. Research limitations/implications This study has been restricted to some fields of knowledge within the undergraduate courses at university level. It has generated specific conclusions and recommendations that cannot be generalised. It suggests new lines of research from its results. Practical implications This study may encourage investment in EE programmes in certain fields of knowledge within institutions and communities that need to foster entrepreneurship as a driver of economic development. Originality/value This study provides empirical evidence of the impact of EE on EI among academics from different fields of knowledge in higher education institutions in Brazil, as well as compares and lists the undergraduate courses where students have more entrepreneurial intention.


2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Vjollca Hasani ◽  
Jusuf Zeqiri ◽  
Kumrije Gagica ◽  
Kimberly Gleason ◽  
Sadudin Ibraimi

Purpose This paper, in light of the theory of planned behavior, aims to analyze the factors that have an impact on entrepreneurial intentions among students in Kosovo. Design/methodology/approach A structured questionnaire is administered online for data collection, and the analysis is conducted using structural equation modeling. Findings The authors find that in the context of Kosovo, personal attitudes, subjective norms and perceived behavioral control significantly impact entrepreneurial intention among students. However, the entrepreneurial education survey respondents received was unrelated to entrepreneurial intention of students in Kosovo. Originality/value The authors contribute to the literature regarding the role of entrepreneurial education on entrepreneurial intention among students and graduates. In addition, the authors provide new evidence regarding the impact of personal attitudes, subjective norms and perceived behavioral control on entrepreneurial intention in the context of a transition economy. Finally, the authors offer recommendations to educational institutions and policymakers concerning the appropriate design of entrepreneurial education.


2013 ◽  
Vol 55 (3) ◽  
pp. 253-271 ◽  
Author(s):  
Marina Z. Solesvik

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to explore the difference in entrepreneurial intentions, perceived entrepreneurial motivation, and cognitive profiles (attitudes towards entrepreneurship, perceived behaviour control, and subjective norms) between individuals who have participated in enterprise education programmes in the universities and those who have not. The paper also investigates the mediating role of attitudes towards entrepreneurship, perceived behaviour control, and subjective norms related to entrepreneurial motivation and the forming of entrepreneurial intentions.Design/methodology/approachSurvey information from 321 students from three universities in the Ukraine was hand collected. Hierarchical multiple regressions were used to test hypotheses.FindingsIndividuals who participate in enterprise programmes tend to have higher entrepreneurial motivation and are more likely to become entrepreneurs. Empirical evidence shows that attitudes, subjective norms and perceived behaviour control mediate the relationship between perceived entrepreneurial motivation and entrepreneurial intentions.Research limitations/implicationsThe study is based on data collected from three universities in one city. The implications for education managers related to the inclusion of enterprise courses into the study plans of engineering students are also discussed here.Practical implicationsThe findings have implications for the stimulation of student enterprise in transitional economies where attitudinal and resource (i.e. skill, competence and knowledge) deficiencies can retard enterprise. Entrepreneurial motivation is an important link between an intention and action. Enterprise education programs which stimulate entrepreneurial motivation should be offered to engineering students since many of them start ventures later. Engagement into enterprise development programs of engineering students might evoke earlier interest in self‐employment career path among young people.Originality/valueThe article contributes to the field of entrepreneurial motivation and intentions. The study extends insights from the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) (i.e. subjective norms, attitudes toward this behaviour, and perceived behavioural control) by also considering the perceived entrepreneurial motivation profiles of students.


2019 ◽  
Vol 16 (11) ◽  
pp. 4782-4788
Author(s):  
Phraudomsitthinayok

Positive personality traits have been linked with various positive outcomes such as job performance, job satisfaction etc. However emotional intelligence and creativity have been scarcely linked with the entrepreneurship. Bering in mind the importance of entrepreneurship, present study has investigated the impact of emotional intelligence, entrepreneurial education and creativity on the entrepreneurial intentions. Data were collected from the students who were in their last semester of their degree. Smart-PLS was used for data analysis. The results of the study revealed that emotional intelligence has significant positive impact on the entrepreneurial intentions of students. Furthermore, results also showed a significant positive relationship between creativity and entrepreneurial intentions. Finally results also showed a positive relationship between the entrepreneurial education and entrepreneurial intentions. All the hypothesis was supported by the results of the study. Study findings concluded that students who are emotionally intelligent, creative and when they are provided with the quality education regarding the entrepreneurship, their intentions tend to be more inclined towards the entrepreneurship. Future directions are limitations are provided at the end of the study.


2020 ◽  
Vol 14 (2) ◽  
pp. 215-228
Author(s):  
Isaac Nyarko Adu ◽  
Kwame Owusu Boakye ◽  
Abdul-Razak Suleman ◽  
Bernard Bekuni Boawei Bingab

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to propose and test a model to examine the factors that mediate the relationship between entrepreneurial education and entrepreneurial intentions among undergraduate students in Ghana. Specifically, the study identified entrepreneurial attitudes and behaviours (namely, risk-taking ability, self-efficacy, pro-activeness and behavioural control) that students ought to acquire through entrepreneurial education to increase their intentions to indulge in entrepreneurship. Design/methodology/approach The survey approach was adopted, with data collection done through administering questionnaires to students in the two public universities in the Central Region of Ghana. The model was tested using the partial least squares procedure. Findings The results found support for the proposed model, depicting that, with the exception of self-efficacy, other factors such as behavioural control, risk-taking ability and pro-activeness mediate the relationship between entrepreneurial education and entrepreneurial intentions of students. Research limitations/implications The major limitation of this study is that the proposed model was tested in only the public universities in the Central Region of Ghana. Subsequently, the validity of the model should be confirmed in other institutions. Practical implications The findings suggest that entrepreneurial education should be integrated into the course structure of all programmes across all disciplines in the tertiary institutions of Ghana. This will promote entrepreneurship and alleviate unemployment among university graduates. Originality/value The study provides a basis for tertiary institutions to develop programmes, policies and measures to help students to build upon their ability to take a risk, control their behaviour and be pro-active. This will influence their quest to become self-employed and not to rely on others and the government for employment after graduation.


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