University of Twente Student Theses
Knowledge acquisition of generation Y entrepreneurs: Antecedents of entrepreneurs’ learning choices
Fienhold, L. (2016) Knowledge acquisition of generation Y entrepreneurs: Antecedents of entrepreneurs’ learning choices.
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| Abstract: | This paper seeks to explore how generation Y entrepreneurs learn; thereby identifying their learning needs, how these needs are affected by prior work and education, which sources of information are employed, and which factors are considered while selecting a source of information. In order to explore these issues, ten entrepreneurs have been interviewed using semi-structured questionnaires. Learning needs identified were grouped into six categories, in most groups the learnings needs became increasingly more specific as the startup developed. Further, the entrepreneurs’ prior work experience provided useful learning that could be applied to the startup, especially when the work experience was related to the current startup and when the individual had high responsibilities within the firm, e.g. handling complex challenges. Further, the entrepreneurs’ previous education provided learnings applicable to the startup operations; especially when the education was related to entrepreneurship or business management. The entrepreneurs used several sources of information; thereby network members represented the most preferred and most valuable source of information. Factors considered in the information source selection related to the quality, specificity, applicability and accessibility of provided information. Also, accessibility, time-efficiency, user-friendliness and credibility were considered factors. Further, costs involved while acquiring information were considered. However, no difference between financially constrained and financially less constrained entrepreneurs in the acquisition of information was found. |
| Item Type: | Essay (Master) |
| Faculty: | BMS: Behavioural, Management and Social Sciences |
| Subject: | 85 business administration, organizational science |
| Programme: | Business Administration MSc (60644) |
| Link to this item: | https://purl.utwente.nl/essays/69671 |
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