An empirical investigation and assessment of entrepreneurial learning factors: a DEMATEL approach

Purpose During the different phases of enterprise creation, entrepreneurial learning (EL) can be understood as an effective process. This study aims to find out the cause-and-effect relationships of the factors that are impacting EL. Design/methodology/approach This research has been conducted in two ways: first, the factors are identified through a systematic analysis of EL, and second, the cause-and-effect relationship among EL factors is analyzed using decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory, which is dependent on the opinion of experts. A network relationship matrix is also drawn from the measured factors. Findings A causal relationship has been established within the identified EL factors. Results indicate that educators and practitioners should focus and concentrate on the cause group-related factors, which are entrepreneurship education, entrepreneurial training, entrepreneurial competencies, experiences, family influence and role models. The remaining two, entrepreneurial perception and entrepreneurial willingness, are identified as being in the effect group. These two factors are affected and influenced by the cause group factors. Research limitations/implications By recognizing the multidimensionality of EL, this study gives the chance to look at what it means to be an entrepreneur from both a personal and a social point of view, including learning styles, learning from mistakes and self-regulated learning. Future research is urged to build tools that accurately capture this crucial factors of EL, thus allowing the field to gain greater integration and information accumulation. Originality/value Researchers have previously described factors that influence EL, but to the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is one of few studies that depict the cause-and-effect relationship between EL factors. These factors are critical to the growth of talented entrepreneurs in both developed and developing countries for promoting an entrepreneurial culture.