Author(s): Viktoriia Potishuk, Jan Kratzer
Based on the theory of planned behavior and opinion leadership, this study tests the effect of opinion leaders, subjective norms, behavioral control, and course characteristics on the entrepreneurial attitudes and entrepreneurial intentions over the course of educational programs. Based on a longitudinal study during two summer schools offered from the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) with 84 students, the following results were found. First, the education and environment at these summer schools affect entrepreneurial attitudes as well as entrepreneurial intentions. Second, opinion leadership in entrepreneurship-related topics positively influences changes in pro-entrepreneurial attitudes. Third, entrepreneurial attitudes, subjective norms, and behavioral control propel entrepreneurial intentions. The main theoretical contribution is the synthesis of formerly distinct research fields of planned behavior, entrepreneurship, and opinion leadership. The study also indicates readily applicable practical suggestions to improve entrepreneurship program that intent to improve entrepreneurial attitudes and norms.