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Unlocking entrepreneurial intentions: The power of educator characteristics and student identification

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: This study explores the impact of entrepreneurship educators' characteristics on students' entrepreneurial intentions. Focusing on the personal, professional, and pedagogical attributes of educators, the research examines how these factors foster students' identification with them, subsequently shaping attitudes and perceived behavioural control relevant to entrepreneurship. A structured survey conducted among 670 university students enrolled in a mandatory entrepreneurship course served as the primary data source. Results derived from Structural Equation Modelling reveal that educators' professional and pedagogical characteristics significantly enhance students’ identification, which, in turn, positively influences their entrepreneurial attitudes and perceived behavioural control. This study underscores the importance of targeted educational strategies that leverage educator influence to strengthen entrepreneurial mindsets in higher education. Practically, these findings suggest that improving educator training and selection based on professional and pedagogical qualities can foster entrepreneurial intention among students, providing valuable guidance for the development of policies and practices in entrepreneurship education.

Source: The International Journal of Management Education

DOI: 10.1016/j.ijme.2026.101420

Authors: Paula San-Martín, Andrea Pérez, Ana Fernández-Laviada, Estefanía Palazuelos

Institutions: Universidad de Cantabria, Santander Financial Institute

Language: English

Topic: Entrepreneurship Studies and Influences

Subfield: Management of Technology and Innovation

Field: Business, Management and Accounting

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Quality education, Decent work and economic growth

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,130