Understanding student participation in entrepreneurship education programs:: a critical review

The rapid growth of entrepreneurship training in higher education warrants increased research on the impacts ofentrepreneurship program participation. The purpose of this study is to develop a conceptual model of studentparticipation in entrepreneurship education programs based on previously established models of student participationin learning activities and entrepreneurship education assessment theories. We systematically reviewed the literature usingsalsa methodology (search, appraisal, synthesis and analysis) to identify commonly used theories and variables inentrepreneurial assessment literature. Salsa method allows identification, evaluation, synthesis and analysis of mostsignificant work in the field with respect to the area of interest. We found that these dominant theories only focused onindividual factors and rarely highlighted external influences and barriers. This review led to development of anentrepreneurship-specific participation model. By merging multiple theories into one overarching model, we provide afoundational framework for systematic research examining student participation in undergraduate entrepreneurshipprograms. This overarching model identifies six variables that are especially important for entrepreneurship educationprogram participation: entrepreneurial self-efficacy; desirability; entrepreneurial intent; life transitions; information andresources; and opportunities and barriers