Influencing entrepreneurial intent for new technology intrapreneurs and entrepreneurs in a university environment

Abstract

Experiential learning is considered paramount to entrepreneurial education. For the U.S. the creation of technology entrepreneurs is an essential element of economic growth, job creation and global competitiveness. This study describes an intercollegiate entrepreneurial experience aimed at unlocking the inner technology entrepreneur in students. A model for Accelerating Collegiate Entrepreneurship (ACE) is proposed, linking theories of technology entrepreneurship creation with linkages to curricular and pedagogical inputs. A survey instrument is used to ascertain the level of entrepreneurial intent as well as a cluster personality assessment and an educational preparedness assessment. A biased sample of entrepreneurship in the College of Business students is introduced as a comparative measure for students in the College of Engineering. The preliminary data suggests that engineering students tend towards long-term entrepreneurial intent, yet traditionally the education system does little to encourage these tendencies, nor prepare them for the management of these technologies. A longitudinal study will follow this work to affect changes to the curriculum and pedagogy in a manner that helps accelerate the creation of successful technology entrepreneurs.