Differential Effects Of Entrepreneurship Education On Entrepreneurial Intention Among Science And Non-Science Students’ In Nigerian Polytechnics

Abstract

This study assesses the differential effects of entrepreneurship education on entrepreneurial intention among science and non-science students in Nigerian Polytechnics. Two research hypotheses were formulated and tested at 0.05level of significance. Data were collected using a self-developed Entrepreneurial Perception and Intention Scale (EPIS). The population was stratified and purposive sampling technique was adopted through which 400 HND Students from the Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro and Moshood Abiola Polytechnic, Abeokuta both in Ogun State, Nigeria. 200 HND students of the Federal Polytechnic Ilaro (100 science students and 100 non-science students and 200 HND students of Moshood Abiola Polytechnic (100 science students and 100 non-science students) were randomly selected. Data collected were analyzed using frequency counts, simple percentage and t–test. Results revealed that there is a difference in the entrepreneurship intention of students in science-based programmes and non-science-based programmes. The results also indicated a difference in the entrepreneurship perception of the students from the two different backgrounds which could be a resultant effect on their entrepreneurship intentions, while non-science students showed a tilt towards business-oriented ventures. The study recommended, among others, that institutions and other agencies responsible for entrepreneurship development should redesign the programme to enhance students perception of entrepreneurship and also identify the entrepreneurial intention of the students with a view to developing their drive in that direction and with appropriate interventions.