Evaluating the significance of franchising entrepreneurial learning in higher education: a longitudinal study from two European Universities

Abstract

This study delves into franchising education at HEIs and its advantages for students. It investigates its impact on knowledge and perceptions, preparing students for entrepreneurial careers and enhancing their job market competitiveness. Franchising is pivotal in contemporary entrepreneurship, offering aspiring entrepreneurs mentorship and risk reduction while enabling established entrepreneurs to expand efficiently. Hence, students must acquire franchising knowledge integral to their entrepreneurial learning. Existing literature extensively covers franchising. However, a noticeable gap exists concerning franchising education and its effects on entrepreneurship students. The research underscores the scarcity of franchising entrepreneurial learning in higher. Additionally, the literature reveals the necessity of collaboration between academia and the business sector in designing and delivering this course, considering the essential knowledge and skills required by lecturers of franchising courses. The longitudinal study spanned seven years based on two rounds of research at the University of Luxembourg (Public) and Vern University (Private) involving 203 students who attended the franchising course and assessed changes in knowledge and attitudes toward franchising through pre- and post-course surveys. The first study round occurred at Vern University, and the second at the University of Luxembourg. This study's results underscore the Franchising course's significance in shaping students' understanding and views regarding franchising. Overall, the course effectively promotes entrepreneurial learning outcomes, evident from the positive shifts in students' knowledge and attitudes toward franchising upon its completion. The study underscores the importance of franchising education in HEIs, aiding students in making informed entrepreneurial decisions and gaining a competitive advantage in the job market. Further Research can explore different groups of students and reasons for varying attitudes towards franchising in private and public Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). Keywords: Franchising, Franchise curriculum, Entrepreneurial learning, Higher Education