Showing papers in "Journal of Education and Training in 2005"

Entrepreneurship education and training - can entrepreneurship be taught? Part I

Abstract: Purpose – Despite a growing body of literature in the field, there is still considerable uncertainty as to whether entrepreneurs are born are made, which has led to an ongoing debate in the entrepreneurship academy about whether we can actually teach individuals to be entrepreneurs. With this in mind, this two‐part paper aims to address the question of whether or not entrepreneurship can be taught.Design/methodology/approach – Part I of the paper dealt with the importance of entrepreneurship in a modern and constantly changing environment; the various ways in which entrepreneurship programmes and courses can be categorised, and the objectives, content and delivery of programmes. The second part of the paper, which is presented in this issue, deals with the topic of determining and measuring programme effectiveness.Findings – Despite the growth in entrepreneurship education and training programmes, the paper reports that little uniformity can be found. Attention is drawn to the art and the science of entre...

Managing human resource capabilities for sustainable competitive advantage: An empirical analysis from Indian global organisations

Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this article is to examine the role of human resource capability (HRC) in organisational performance and sustainable competitive advantage (SCA) in Indian global organisations.Design/methodology/approach – To carry out the present study, an empirical research on a random sample of 300 line or human resource managers from nine Indian and foreign global organisations, from New Delhi (the National capital region of India) is carried out. The principal research method employed included the sample and measurements tools, and data analysis concerning the human resource capabilities for organisational performance and sustainable competitive advantage by using SPSS package 12.Findings – The findings of the study reveal that human resource capabilities are positively correlated to organisational performance. Furthermore, human resource capability was found to be a significant predictor of sustainable competitive advantage.Research limitations/implications – More samples from different Indi...

Researching entrepreneurship and education: Part 1: what is entrepreneurship and does it matter?

Abstract: Purpose – This article is the first in a series of conceptual and empirical contributions that, individually and cumulatively, seek to analyse, develop and link two important fields of research: “entrepreneurship” and “entrepreneurship education”. Design/methodology/approach – The paper undertakes a critical literature review and a methodical evaluation of current knowledge on topics related directly and indirectly to “entrepreneurship” and “entrepreneurship education”. Findings – A critical evaluation of the literature on entrepreneurship and entrepreneurship education has highlighted a number of definitional, conceptual and contextual weaknesses inherent in these two interrelated fields of research. Importantly, both fields of knowledge share similar definitional weaknesses and methodological inadequacies. The paper proposes an encompassing working definition of entrepreneurship (including intrapreneurship) and a basic typology of relevant entrepreneurial and intrapreneurial activities. This converging approach combines the two units of analysis, i.e. the entrepreneur and/or the intrapreneur as well as the entrepreneurial and/or intrapreneurial firm. In terms of a basic typology, the paper recommends Westhead and Wright's suggestion that entrepreneurs can be categorised into three broad groups: “novice,” “serial,” and “portfolio,”. This “converging approach” to entrepreneurship would bridge the most obvious aspects of empirical discord and provide better comparative and more generalisable research. Research limitations/implications – The evaluation and interpretation of emergent results represent the author's own perceptions, experiences and biases – and should therefore be viewed with caution. Thus, this article is subject to the usual bias and singular perspective which is generally attributable to “viewpoint” articles. Originality/value – The paper proposes an encompassing working definition of entrepreneurship and a basic typology of relevant entrepreneurial and intrapreneurial activities.

A study of collaborative learning style and team learning performance

Abstract: Purpose – Self‐directed work teams are seen as an important mechanism for dealing with today's complex and rapidly changing business environment. Team learning is an attempt to prepare students to real‐world experiences. But, not all teamwork is effective. This paper aims to examine the influence of learning style preferences on team learning performance.Design/methodology/approach – The Grasha‐Riechmann Student Learning Style Scales (GRSLSS) is used to assess the learning style preferences of business students enrolled in an operations management class.Findings – Students were found to be collaborative learners. Students' collaborative orientation complements participation and helps students to compete, which in turn increases team performance. In addition, influence of learning style varies with educational experience, gender and major. Graduate students showed to be collaborative and independent learners. As such, while personal model and formal authority teaching styles fit best undergraduates' learni...

Enterprise skills for the economy

Abstract: Purpose – In response to the emergence of an enterprise economy, government claims that building an enterprise culture is vital. Correspondingly, provision of entrepreneurship education in higher education has expanded. The paper aims to assess the potential of entrepreneurship education to develop skills, and of whether students perceive them as having value within the modern economy.Design/methodology/approach – The paper draws from a longitudinal, collaborative study of students of entrepreneurship in four universities. Using a questionnaire‐based methodology, the paper is based on responses from a sample of 519 students.Findings – Results include that any increase in graduate entrepreneurship is most likely to be a long‐term. Results also suggest that many students expect to work in new and small firms, and that skills developed by entrepreneurship education are applicable to both waged employment and entrepreneurship. Accordingly, entrepreneurship education seems to have much potential to develop ski...

A conceptual model of management learning in micro businesses: Implications for research and policy

Abstract: Purpose – This article proposes the development of a conceptual model to help understand the nature of management learning in the micro business context and to inform research and policy discourse.Design/methodology/approach – The model is developed on the basis of a literature search and review of academic and grey literature.Findings – The model highlights the unique nature of the micro business learning environment. Meeting the diverse interests of micro business managers is a major challenge for agencies seeking to promote and deliver management and leadership skills. An intervention approach founded upon the relationship between the micro business manager and the intervention agency is crucial to the successful design and delivery of relevant services.Research limitations/implications – The research identified a lack of literature associated with learning in the micro business context. The model should therefore be considered as partial, to be tested in practice and subject to revision as new underst...

The Effect of Paid Employment on University Students' Lives.

Abstract: Purpose – Owing to the increasing debt students are accumulating to finance their tertiary study, many are having to work during term time. The aim of this study is to explore the impact of this paid employment on their study time and other aspects of their lives.Design/methodology approach – Eighty three undergraduates completed a questionnaire about their academic workload, their paid employment commitments during term time, their earnings and expenditure, and their recreational and cultural activities.Findings – Results indicated that 81 per cent of the students held at least one job during term time for an average of 14 hours per week. The money earned was typically spent on essential living expenses. Working left less time than desired for social activities, study and recreation.Research limitations/implications – The findings are limited by the relatively small sample size of self‐selected students: mainly young, female and enrolled in Arts courses.Practical implications – The results suggest that w...

Training and developing an age diverse workforce in SMEs: The need for a strategic approach

Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to examine the importance of strategic human resource development (HRD) in small and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) with specific reference to key issues around training, development and education as well as an emerging issue of significance, age diversity management.Design/methodology/approach – The approach undertaken in the paper is to draw upon relevant literature and research as well as the authors' own analysis of the relationship between strategic human resource management (SHRM), HRD and SMEs based on prior research.Findings – The findings of the research and analysis is that SMEs which take a strategic approach to training and development of their human resources will profit not only from a competitive position in their marketplace but also be well placed to adjust to changing and often uncertain external influences on the business environment presented to organisations in the twenty‐first century.Practical implications – It is envisaged that SMEs should ma...

Paradoxes in entrepreneurship education: chalk and talk or chalk and cheese? A case approach

Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this article is to present the challenges raised within a UK HEI between business and non‐business educationalists engaged in the provision and integration of entrepreneurship education.Design/methodology/approach – Shows a single case experience with biology science undergraduates and educators at an English university.Findings – Clearly more institutions are making more entrepreneurship education offers to their students. Embedded within these offers are fundamental and diverse beliefs about the meaning of enterprise and entrepreneurship. Such differences create a number of key issues concerning what should be offered, where it should be positioned institutionally, to whom it should be offered and by whom, and how it should be delivered. Such issues relate to conceptual and philosophical challenges, design options, and institutional capacity and capability factors.Research limitations/implications – A single case approach is contextually bounded. However such contexts are likely...

The gendered nature of apprenticeship : employers' and young people's perspectives

Abstract: Purpose Gender segregation has been a persistent feature of apprenticeship programmes in countries around the world. In the UK, the Modern Apprenticeship was launched ten years ago as the government?s flagship initiative for training new entrants in a range of occupational sectors. One of its priorities was to increase male and female participation in ?non-traditional? occupations, that is, those normally practiced by just one sex. However, recent figures show that the programme has failed to achieve its aim and this has prompted an investigation by the Equal Opportunities Commission. The research reported in this paper is part of this investigation. Methodology/Approach This paper presents quantitative and qualitative evidence on the attitudes of young people (aged 14 and 15) and employers to non-traditional occupational choices. It also explores the factors affecting the decisions of young people to train in a non-traditional occupation and the recruitment decisions of employers from ?traditional sectors?, such as engineering, the construction trades and childcare. Findings The research provides evidence of the deeply entrenched nature of occupational stereotypes and the psychological and social barriers that have to be overcome if a more evenly balanced workforce is to be created. It also reveals that none of the institutions and organisations which act as gatekeepers between young people and employers is, as yet, taking responsibility for challenging their perceptions and decision-making processes. Policy implications The paper concludes by highlighting the implications of the research findings stakeholders and suggesting an holistic approach to tackling gender segregation.

Australian small business participation in training activities

Abstract: Purpose – This purpose of this paper is to investigate the use of on‐line training by small businesses in Australia. It explores the relationship between the owner's acceptance and use of the internet, and their current participation in training opportunities.Design/methodology/approach – A sample of small businesses which had participated in an Australian government scheme aimed at improving the participation of this business sector in training, were surveyed using a mailed questionnaire. The scheme provided training vouchers to businesses to fund training activities for the owner managers.Findings – Findings suggest that business characteristics can affect the participation in training, with those having plans more likely to engage in training. The use of the internet for training has improved accessibility for small businesses and offers some potential as a delivery medium, however, the findings also highlight the lack of e‐literacy of many small business owners.Research limitations/implications – Give...

Teaching students with autistic spectrum disorders in HE

Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of the research reported in this paper was to examine the type of adjustments to delivery appropriate for students with an autistic spectrum disorder in a UK higher education setting.Design/methodology/approach – A case study in a UK university was conducted over a two‐year period.Findings – A variety of adjustments may be required for students with an autistic spectrum disorder in a UK higher education environment, including adjustments to teaching delivery, assessment and pastoral care.Research limitations/implications – Although the case study reported in this paper focused on just three students with an autistic spectrum disorder, the number of students entering UK higher education with such disorders is likely to increase and institutions need to be aware of the adjustments that may potentially be required.Originality/value – Previously very few students with an autistic spectrum disorder had attended university in the UK. However, growing numbers of such students are now attend...

Entrepreneurial skills in leadership and human resource management evaluated by apprentices in small tourism businesses

Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this article is to evaluate the leadership skills and entrepreneur's or owner/manager's ability to motivate apprentices and other young employees. Specifically, the artical investigates young employees' perceptions about leadership and motivational behaviour in small‐ and medium‐sized hotels.Design/methodology/approach – The first part of the paper provides a literature review of entrepreneurial skills in general and human resource management in particular. The second part presents a survey that was carried out in 2003 in the Alpine region of South Tyrol to assess apprentices' evaluation of entrepreneurial leadership behaviour in small‐ and medium‐sized hotels.Findings – The findings show that entrepreneurs in small‐ and medium‐sized hotels cannot meet young employees' job expectations – difficulties in communication and planning as well as low motivation and insufficient career options are mentioned as core problems in tourism enterprises.Research limitations/implications – It is...

Examining the impact of ethics training on business student values

Abstract: Purpose – Recent misconduct and highly questionable behavior has fostered considerable distrust, cynicism, and antagonism among the populace toward the leadership of virtually all social institutions. This paper aims to examine the impact of ethics training on business students values.Design/methodology/approach – Focuses on the central question whether exposure to ethical dilemmas and discussions in the classroom setting will lead to new paradigms of leadership incorporating instrumental values.Findings – The results support the contention that senior level students were influenced in their perceptions of the importance of instrumental values in comparison to freshmen. As hypothesized no difference was found between men and women in both the importance and reinforcement of the instrumental values examined. The results do not support the contention that increased emphasis on ethics in textbooks and courses has had a significant impact.Practical implications – Directions for future training are considered ...

The determinants of training in Australian manufacturing SMEs

Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this article is to examine the factors influencing the provision of increased training in Australian manufacturing small and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) that have embarked upon different growth development pathways.Design/methodology/approach – The longitudinal panel data employed in this research are drawn from the business longitudinal survey conducted by the Australian Bureau of Statistics over the four financial years 1994‐1995 to 1997‐1998.Findings – The results indicate that organisational change, in the form of major change in production technology and/or new or substantially improved product or process technology, and the introduction of business improvement programmes, are influential, and relatively consistent drivers of increased training in SMEs following each of the growth development pathways, and, over time. The findings also suggest that innovation distinguishes high growth SMEs from their lower growth counterparts.Research limitations/implications – This inves...

Apprenticeships in Germany: modernising the Dual System

Abstract: Purpose – This paper proposes to investigate the modernisation of the German Dual System for apprenticeships.Design/methodology/approach – The paper looks at the history of the development of the Dual System and looks at the challenges it faces today.Findings – The paper finds that Germany, with its long‐standing tradition of dual apprenticeships and the reputation of maintaining its practices rather than changing them, has joined the vocational education and training reform agenda. It also finds that reforms seem inevitable in the face of a partial failure of the traditional mechanisms operating within the existing apprenticeship system.Originality/value – This paper is useful in highlighting the challenges faced by a traditional apprenticeship system.

Mid‐career entrepreneurial learning

Abstract: Purpose – Recent research on entrepreneurship education has emphasised school, college and university students, with less attention being paid to entrepreneurial learning among people in older age groups. However the ageing population of the UK and other developed countries means that there is a need for an increasing proportion of the existing working population, from a broad social and demographic background, to develop entrepreneurial skills in mid‐career in order to find new opportunities for economic activity and to extend their working lives. This goal requires better understanding of the learning needs and processes of mid‐career entrepreneurs (MCEs) between the ages of 35 and 55. This article aims to enhance the understanding of mid‐career entrepreneurial learning by exploring how and why people develop entrepreneurial skills in mid‐career, how these skills are deployed in working on opportunities, what types of learning are most effective, and conclusions for the design of MCE learning experience...

The New Entrepreneur Scholarships: self‐employment as a means to tackle social deprivation

Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to investigate New Entrepreneur Scholarships, a government‐funded programme that aims to help people from disadvantaged backgrounds to become self‐employed.Design/methodology/approach – A case study methodology is employed.Findings – The programme has been very effective in helping people who would not otherwise overcome the barriers in setting up a business to establish themselves in self‐employment.Originality/value – Tacking the issue of qualifications remains an issue as there is no clear demand for a qualification. Resources are also needed to further promote the success of New Entrepreneur scholars within their own areas to that they can be role models to others and so that enterprise can be seen as a viable option for other members of their communities.

Reconfiguring higher education: the case of foundation degrees

Abstract: Purpose – This paper aims to explore the policy background, educational rationale, developmental stages, and the introduction and piloting of a foundation degree (FD).Design/methodology/approach – The approach is a description and discussion. The paper draws together, for the first time, the main policy documents and reviews and relates these to the pilot programme.Findings – This new qualification is an attempt to reduce the academic and vocational divide, improve intermediate skill levels, develop the qualifications progression ladder and effectively widen participation to higher education (HE) for non‐traditional groups. Despite criticisms and hesitant take up FDs represent a significant development in British Higher Education producing some innovative and successful programmes such as the FD in Health and Social Care at Bradford University.Originality/value – Of value to those interested in developments in HE. A number of conclusions are drawn and questions are raised regarding the extent to which FDs...

Training programmes for stress management in small businesses

Abstract: – The purpose of this paper is to present: the problem of stress employees might encounter; the individual inclination to stress; the individual methods for reducing stress; and the authors' model of training for stress prevention., – The paper uses both descriptive and analytical approaches to research and dissemination. Within the descriptive approach various methods are applied, including compilation, descriptive and comparative techniques; the analytical approach involves inductive and deductive methods., – It emerges that individuals vary considerably in their ability to manage stress. Self‐perception, locus of control, type A or B behavioural patterns and flexibility or rigidity, all appear to influence stress management abilities., – Some organisations might choose to assist individuals to manage stress by providing relevant training programmemes., – The paper develops a model of training for stress prevention. This model could be customised to the specific needs of small, medium and large organisations.

Registered apprenticeship training in the US construction industry

Abstract: Purpose – This paper aims to compare the performance of building trades apprenticeship programs in the USA, sponsored jointly by employers and unions, with those sponsored unilaterally by employers. It reviews enrolment and graduation rates, including participation of women and minorities. The article also looks behind the numbers to examine the operation of apprenticeship. It reviews the evolution of joint programs, including institutional arrangements and recent innovations to cope with the challenging characteristics of construction labor markets.Design/methodology/approach – Statistical comparisons by type of program sponsor are carried out using individual‐level data on registered apprenticeship for the period 1996‐2003. Evolution of apprenticeship programs is discussed in a historical perspective.Findings – Joint programs (with union participation) were found to have much higher enrolments and greater participation of women and ethnic/racial minorities. Joint programs also exhibit markedly better pe...

The Best of Intentions: Future Plans of Young Enterprise Scheme Participants.

Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to report on an evaluation of the Young Enterprise Scheme (YES) in New Zealand. In particular, it aims to present data relating to what influence the YES has on the career intentions and employability of student participants.Design/methodology/approach – The data were collected via a questionnaire disseminated to YES participants. A total of 512 responses were received, which equated to 29 per cent of all participants in 2001.Findings – The findings show that, to some extent, participating in the YES does influence the choices students make about further study and future work opportunities. The YES appears to have a greater impact on those students who are exposed to enterprising role models through their family and friends.Research limitations/implications – The findings of the evaluation are not generalisable beyond the YES programme or the New Zealand context.Originality/value – The paper addresses a gap in the knowledge regarding enterprise education by reporting...

Integration and the hidden curriculum in business education

Abstract: Purpose – The principal aim of this paper is to present the case for securing greater affinity between the formal curriculum and the hidden curriculum with respect to integration in business education.Design/methodology/approach – Consideration is given to the concept of the hidden curriculum, as manifested in the compartmentalised nature of academia and the need for this to be offset by business educators. A number of principles for configuring the hidden curriculum in ways that support the goal of integration are suggested.Findings – Some of the literature on the hidden curriculum emphasises the need for consistency in the learning culture so that students' understanding of what their course is seeking to achieve is underpinned by the structures and processes that play an important part in shaping their learning experience.Practical implications – If integration is the goal of business education then attention should be given to creating a learning environment in which its virtues are clearly demonstrat...

Exploring the notion of retention in apprenticeship

Abstract: Purpose – Proposes to provide a description of the factors that underlie retention and to develop a model of the process of retention.Design/methodology/approach – A qualitative study was conducted in a selected number of occupational areas. Interviews were conducted with apprentices and trainees employed under a contract of training; apprentices/trainees who had recently completed their contract of training; employers/workplace supervisors and teachers/trainers.Findings – Provides information about a range of factors and how they combined to shape the process of retention. Recognises that some of the identified factors are more amenable to interventions to enhance retention than others.Research limitations/implications – The study did not attempt to cover all occupations in which apprentices are employed, or to provide any ranking of importance of factors in relation to the retention process. The study encourages a holistic understanding of the process of retention and emphasises the dynamic nature of th...

Developing thoughtful students: using learning styles in an HE context

Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to examine the use of learning styles in developing learning in a higher education context.Design/methodology/approach – The paper employs a case study of a year one introductory module for first‐year university students in a post‐1992 university.Findings – It is suggested that learning styles in association with concepts of engagement and identity may be usefully and successfully employed in supporting, guiding and developing student learning. The importance of contextual factors is a factor that will influence learning strategies.Originality/value – The paper is critical of other uses of learning styles and makes suggestions to develop and broaden the role of learning styles.

"Bioneering" : teaching biotechnology entrepreneurship at the undergraduate level

Abstract: Purpose – The authors have developed an educational model that operates at the undergraduate level and aims to produce graduates who can comfortably operate in the gulf between the laboratory bench and the commercial marketplace. The purpose of the paper is to describe the course, approaches, activities and initial outcomes of the Bachelor of Biotechnology Innovation course at Queensland University of Technology.Design/methodology/approach – Students undertake “hard science” subjects and business subjects on entrepreneurship, innovation and market development. Synthesis of these disparate disciplines is driven through formation of virtual companies that serve to contextualize subject content and provide start‐up company experience across the four‐year course. Student companies design biotechnology products and processes and can progress their product through initial research and development phases or undertake an industry‐based internship working as a team on initial concept projects. This focused, team‐b...

The nature and purpose of the DBA: A case for clarity and quality control

Abstract: Purpose – To explore the nature (component parts, degree structure) and purpose (intended outcomes) of the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) degree, identifying the strengths and weaknesses of the degree as they stand presently, using Australian experience.Design/methodology/approach – A review of DBA programme offerings in Australia identified commonalities and differences in these offerings, and provided information necessary to propose strategic and theoretical implications of DBA education.Findings – The paper demonstrates areas of confusion surrounding the purpose and nature of the DBA degree, especially as a research degree in comparison to the PhD. It concludes that quality controls are needed to ensure that this growing addition to management education adds to, and aids, the goal of strengthening management research, in ways that link theoretical insights with management practice.Research limitations/implications – Theoretical and practical implications of the DBA degree are offered, as well...

Support for working undergraduates: the view of academic staff

Abstract: Purpose – To investigate the attitudes of academic staff towards providing practical support for full‐time students working on a part‐time basis during term‐timeDesign/methodology/approach – A case study of a rural faculty of a large metropolitan university in the UK In‐depth semi‐structured interviews were held with 22 members of staff, drawn from every department in the case study facultyFindings – Support for working students is arbitrary and accidental The majority of staff are unaware of the extent of student employment and of the possibilities of providing supportResearch limitations/implications – Only a small proportion of the total university staff were interviewed, coupled with the fact that the faculty is rural and therefore the sample may not be representative of the majority of universities which have city centre campusesPractical implications – Improved awareness of students' total university experience on the part of academics may encourage practical measures to assist the undergradua

Why Link Personal Research and Teaching

Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to highlight issues concerning the linking of research to teaching.Design/methodology/approach – The paper engages with two assumptions which appear to be taken for granted: there should be an overt and strong link between one's own research and one's teaching; and one's active involvement in the research process should, at the very least, underpin, the quality of one's teaching, and at best, improve it.Findings – There is a link between research and teaching (though the strength of the link is problematic). The link is not only a matter of intellectual or disciplinary import, but is complicated by political and vested interests. The two extremes of research and teaching can be bridged by scholarship or learning, or both together. It is unnecessary and counter‐productive to demand of academics that they should be simultaneously good researchers and good teachers, although this requirement is unlikely to be realised in practice. There is no obligation whatever for aca...

Educational and Occupational Preferences of High School Students in Greece.

Abstract: Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to investigate the influence of personal and structural characteristics in the development of educational and occupational preferences, and examine the formation of students' perceptions about the labour market and the factors influencing the formation of these perceptions.Design/methodology/approach – Data were collected from a survey of high school students in urban areas. The findings are investigated using appropriate statistical tests.Findings – Students' choice of educational discipline is fairly evenly distributed, and seems to be influenced by the educational level of their parents. Other important influencing factors are family income, grades achieved by the students at school, and choice of future profession.Originality/value – Conclusively, the present study finds that background variables such as family education and income are significant in the formation of students' education and occupational preferences. The development of an occupational orientation ...