Exploration of Entrepreneurial Intentions of Management Students Using Shapero’s Model

Abstract

This study was conceived as an attempt to explore the entrepreneurial intentions of management scholars with the objective to ascertain the contribution of selected variables in shaping and defining the entrepreneurial intentions of these students. For the same reason, Shapero’s model for explaining the entrepreneurial intentions was applied on the students studying the management program in a business school at Ahmedabad. The model was based on three fundamental variables as perceived feasibility, perceived desirability and propensity to act. Data collection was made through a questionnaire and analyzed for descriptive statistics and partial least squares regression analysis using SPSS. As the study was primarily directed towards the students pursuing management program, important conclusions pertaining to the entrepreneurial intentions of these students were drawn using Shapero’s model as the key premise. Among the three independent variables, perceived desirability was identified to have significant contribution to the entrepreneurial intentions followed by perceived feasibility. The study indicated that students were enthusiastic about becoming entrepreneurs and believed that being entrepreneurs positively brings in a larger sense of gratification. A course on entrepreneurship with specialized modules if introduced, is expected to create interest and develop their attitude towards business. These modules would also enhance the entrepreneurial skills of the students.