Author(s): Guo Xuemei, Ng Siew Foen
The paper examines how learner autonomy bridges entrepreneurial education and success. Using theories like TPB, Human Value Theory, and Autonomous Learning Theory, it explains that entrepreneurial education boosts success via autonomous learning. TPB guides entrepreneurial aspirations, while Human Value Theory highlights self-directed learning and adaptability. Autonomous Learning Theory’s principles are vital for promoting self-control and autonomous learning in entrepreneurship. This study employed quantitative and retrospective methods to gather data from alumna entrepreneurs who have participated in entrepreneurial education programs and asked them to recall the influence of entrepreneurial education on their current achievements. It investigated whether learner autonomy acts as a bridge between entrepreneurial education and entrepreneurial success, using mediation analysis. Results showed that entrepreneurial education positively affected entrepreneurial success, but autonomy strengthened this link, functioning partially as a mediator. These outcomes are significant for theories on entrepreneurial behavior and autonomous learning, as well as for guiding educators and policymakers in nurturing entrepreneurial education