Entrepreneurial self-efficacy development: an effective intervention for sustainable student entrepreneurial intentions

Abstract

Eco-systemic disconnect in youth entrepreneurs' support systems is a challenge in most developing countries and adversely affects the success of entrepreneurship education. The study investigated the extent to which the application of systemic action learning and action research (SALAR) affects students' entrepreneurial self-efficacy (ESE) and determined relationships between ESE development, entrepreneurial intention and action. A quantitative design was used with a structured, self-administered, 7-point Likert scale survey through a test-retest method, over nine months amongst university students at a selected university in South-Africa. A purposive (non-probability) sampling technique was adopted for the administration of 230 questionnaires. Inferential statistics were used to examine the relationship between the constructs. Findings indicated a significant relationship between the application of SALAR and students' ESE development, intention and action. The findings propose a flexible social technology model (SHAPE) and methodology (SALAR) that other higher education institutions can adapt to facilitate youth entrepreneurship education development.