ASSESSING THE ENTREPRENURIAL INTENTION OF UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS: A MULTI-DIMENSIONAL APPROACH

Abstract

Purpose- The purpose of this study was to develop and test a comprehensive model incorporating insights from three distinct approaches namely behavioral, psychological and contextual factors, aiming to identify significant variables influencing entrepreneurial intention among undergraduate students in Qatar. Design- This research was developed by involving a sample of undergraduate students enrolled in Qatar University. Data was collected via a self-administered questionnaire containing several group of questions related to behavioral, psychological, and contextual constructs and entrepreneurial intention. In addition, two new factors that are pertinent to the region was measured. Findings- The result show that personal attitude, perceived behavioral control and self-confidence significantly influence entrepreneurial intention. In addition, other variables in the model influence entrepreneurial intention indirectly. Research limitation- Performing focus groups in order to gain deeper insights into factors shaping entrepreneurial intention among undergraduate students who are faced with forces that are unique to the region, such as extreme wealth and high earning jobs to fresh graduates. Originality- This is the first study of its kind that aims to assess entrepreneurial intention from more than one approach. Also, two new factors are introduced which have the potential to explain entrepreneurial activity.