EXPLORATORY STUDY TO ASSESS THE EFFECTS OF ENTREPRENEURSHIP PROGRAMS ON FRENCH STUDENT ENTREPRENEURIAL BEHAVIORS

In: Journal of enterprising culture: JEC, Band 8, Heft 2, S. 169-184

Abstract

The question of whether entrepreneurs are made or born is one that has been the subject of many studies in the entrepreneurial field. Education initiatives in entrepreneurship show a belief in the possibility of developing entrepreneurial skills through appropriate programs. Now, do various programs have different impact on students' propensity to start a business? The research presented here aims at identifying the variables which provide an understanding of the influence exerced by entrepreneurship courses. We collected data from 25 "Grandes Ecoles" (French Business School) and qualified their objectives when setting up such programs, as well as the means dedicated to them. Simultaneously, we submitted to our respondents (entrepreneurship programs managers) a Likert scale evaluating their perception of the direct and indirect impact of the courses. We conclude with a proposition to better anticipate the effects that can be expected from such course offerings, including dimensions which are often underestimated such as the strategic positioning of the schools.