Model of teachable entrepreneurship competencies (M-TEC): scale development

Abstract

Purpose. In this paper, literature regarding the definition and classification of entrepreneurship competencies is revised and areas of improvement are identified. Based on this literature review, the paper proposes the theoretical Model of Teachable Entrepreneurship Competencies (M-TEC) that is also tested empirically. Design/methodology/approach. Data is collected from 562 college students enrolled in an entrepreneurship course to test the multi-item and multi-dimensional scale developed to measure the M-TEC in this paper. The scale is tested using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and structural equation modelling (SEM). Findings. The scale consists of 38 items related to nine types of competencies classified in four dimensions: entrepreneurship, management and business, human resources and interpersonal competencies. The empirical findings of the study demonstrate the reliability and validity of the new measurement scale for the global sample, and when it is tested for male and female students independently. The findings also corroborate the adequacy of the scale to be included in causal research. Originality/value. Although research on entrepreneurship competencies has notably increased in recent years, the definition and measurement of the concept still concern researchers and practitioners. To close this gap in literature, we focus on the identification, definition and measurement of the entrepreneurship competencies that can be specifically developed through formal education and training.