A study of the effectiveness of Finnish entrepreneurship education in creating new entrepreneurs

Abstract

Objectives The main objectives of this study were to find out if Finnish entrepreneurship education is effective in increasing the intention of young people to become entrepreneurs and to identify how this happens. In addition, the objective was to determine how entrepreneurial mindset and skills are related to students’ entrepreneurial intention. Lastly, this study intends to point out some issues to develop in entrepreneurship education.

Summary First, this study uses secondary data to discuss different aspects of entrepreneurship education and its effects on entrepreneurial intention of young people. Then, primary data is gathered from upper secondary school students through an online survey and analyzed with the aim to meet the research objectives and answer the research questions.

Conclusions The results of this study suggest that Finnish entrepreneurship education influences most students positively, increasing their intention to various extent. However, a difference in the strength of intentions was found between male and other respondents. Entrepreneurial mindset and skills were quite equally developed, and it was suggested that they affect students’ intention in a certain order. Suggestions for educators were presented regarding risk, gender differences in intentions, and how theory and opportunities to practice are provided to students.