Developing self-efficacy and entrepreneurial intent for technology entrepreneurship: the role of work experience

Decline in traditional sectors has seen attention paid by governments to encouraging the development of new-technology-based sectors which exploit advances in fields such as electronics, biotechnology and software. Wealth and employment creation in these areas has been fuelled by the emergence and growth of innovative small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The emergence and growth of new sectors is inextricably linked with entrepreneurship since the founder is the key driver in the venture creation process. Research on new technology-based firm founders points to the importance of education, previous work experience and personal motivation in influencing the ventures they create. For sectoral growth to occur calls not only for a flow of would-be entrepreneurs but also a supply of innovative and capable employees to help existing firms maintain their competitive edge. To help underpin economic development the United Kingdom (UK) government has supported university-based initiatives targeted particularly at raising understanding of enterprise among science, engineering and technology (SET) students and enabling them to develop skills and competence suited to employment within SMEs and large organisations. Whilst university students derive much education and learning from within their principal discipline, significant learning occurs outside the 'classroom' at home, in social settings and the workplace. This view focuses attention on colleges and universities to produce graduates in SET-oriented disciplines who are capable of filling these roles, but education is best considered in a broader context. Course of study, entrepreneurship, business education and industrial work experience operate together to shape self-efficacy and entrepreneurial intention. The research draws upon a number of theoretical concepts to explore influences on the motivation and capability of graduates to engage in entrepreneurial behaviour.