CHAPTER THREE
METHODOLOGY OF THE STUDY
3.1 Scope and Area of the Study
3.1.1 Scope of the Study
This study broadly sought to examine the influence of entrepreneurship education on the
entrepreneurial intention of students in H.I.C.M
On the influence of entrepreneurship education can delve into the factors influencing the
entrepreneurial intention of students in H.I.C.M Through thematic, time, and geography
analyses. Here's a detailed breakdown of each factor;
[Link] Thematic scope
Literature scope is a form of human expression. But not everything expressed in words even
when organized and written down is counted as literature. This section will examine seminal
or principal works that have been consequential in the field. Any work research carried out will
fall under literature.
[Link] Geographic scope
Geographic scope is the area covered by a model or analysis used to calculate the physical
changes resulting from a proposed project. It makes clear where the project is focused on that
it is the area where you carried out research. This study was particularly limited to HICM the
selected LEVEL had a valuable data to fulfil the study needs. It was within the researchers’
reach an amount of funds allocated for research was sufficient to conduct the study within the
area.
[Link] Time scope
Time scope is actually the amount of time taken to carry out the research and gather information
in HICM. The research was carried out in a period of 5 months. This period was used because
the researcher believes that he will be able to coherently gather the information from the
respondents as it will enable them
3.1.2 Area of the Study
The specific context of interest was the HICM of the university of Bamenda (North West
region), Cameroon.
HICM is one on the two business schools of the country. Created alongside with the University
of Bamenda, HICM is running 06 (six) departments namely Insurance and Security,
Accounting and Finance, Marketing, Management and Entrepreneurship, Organizational
Sciences and Money and Banking. The school was created on the 14th December 2010, the
professional school is located in a small town in tuba sub division Bambili town
The main campus of the University of Bamenda is in Bambili a subdivision in Bamenda,
Mezam Division, Northwest region of Cameroon. The village is along the Ring Road northeast
of Bamenda. An Anglophone area, many schoolchildren are taught in English, and the use of
Pidgin English is widespread. English and Pidgin play a significant role in community life, but
the Mbeligi language still maintains its place as the heart language of most Bambili people.
Students in the Faculty of Health Science are currently taking studies at Mile 3 Nkwen
Bamenda at the campus between Fonab Polytechnic and Saint Louise Higher Institute of
Health.
Bambili is surrounded by a number of related languages (Bambui, Babanki, Bafut, Mankon,
Nkwen, Mendakwe and Awing). Mbeligi is the dialect of Bambili, but distinctly related to the
other ngemba languages (and each group insists on its independent identity).
Bambili is located in the region of North-West. North-West's capital Bamenda (Bamenda) is
approximately 12.0 km / 7.5 mi away from Bambili (as the crow flies). The distance from
Bambili to Cameroon's capital Yaounde (Yaoundé) is approximately 274 km / 170 mi (as the
crow flies).
Figure 3.1 Map of HICM University of Bamenda NW
Source: Administrative unite of Bamenda; NIC
(NW)
3.2 Research Design
A research design can be defined as a plan used for data collection and utilization in order to
obtain desired information with accuracy or for a researcher to test their hypothesis sufficiently.
This particular research used several methods to make sure that the information was accurate
and comprehensive. One of the methods employed was descriptive design so as to define facts
in the field accurately.
Descriptive research design is appropriate for studies that have specific issues where problems
have been defined (Mugenda and Mugenda, 2003). The study seeks to describe a situation
through the study of variable relationships. The study describes and defines the subject matter
by profiling issues under study (Cooper & Schindler, 2008). It also helped the researcher to
critically analyse the problem in question with a view of drawing more detailed and specific
information about the subject that can be useful to the management. This study adopted a
survey research method of both quantitative and qualitative methods in the research design to
show the relationship between entrepreneurship education and entrepreneurial intention of
students in H.I.C.M
Mark (2004), defined survey method as one which involves requesting participants questions
on how they feel, what their views are, and what they had experienced. Survey method was
useful when a researcher wants to collect data on phenomena that can’t be observed directly.
It was advantageous in that; it allowed the collection of large amounts of data from a sizeable
population in a highly effective, easily and in an economical way, often using questionnaires
The choice of utilizing both quantitative and qualitative methods in the research design for
studying the influence of entrepreneurship education on entrepreneurial intention of students
in H.I.C.M is driven by the need to capture a comprehensive understanding of the complex
factors influencing the entrepreneurial intention of students in H.I.C.M. By incorporating both
quantitative and qualitative approaches, the research aims to benefit from the respective
strengths of each method, ensuring a more thorough and nuanced analysis of the
entrepreneurial intention of students in H.I.C.M within the university of Bamenda
Quantitative methods, such as data analysis of entrepreneurial intention of students in H.I.C.M,
occupancy rates, learning strategies, and teaching practices, provide numerical insights into the
trends, patterns, and correlations related to entrepreneurial intention of students in H.I.C.M.
These quantitative measures offer a structured and measurable way to assess the influence of
various factors in HICM entrepreneurial intention, enabling researchers to quantify
relationships and identify trends that can guide entrepreneurship education
On the other hand, qualitative methods, including in-depth interviews, surveys, and
observations, facilitate the exploration of subjective experiences, customer preferences, service
quality perceptions, competitive dynamics, and other contextual factors that may not be easily
captured quantitatively. Qualitative data allows for a deeper understanding of the underlying
reasons.
By integrating both quantitative and qualitative methods, the research design harmonizes these
complementary approaches to paint a more complete picture of the multifaceted nature of
entrepreneurship education in HICM. This mixed-methods approach enables the research to
triangulate data from different perspectives, validate findings across multiple sources, and gain
a more holistic understanding of the diverse factors at play in shaping entrepreneurship
education by combining quantitative rigor with qualitative depth, the research design ensures
a robust and comprehensive analysis that can inform strategic recommendations and practical
interventions to enhance entrepreneurial intention of students in H.I.C.M
3.3 Target Population, Sample and Sampling Technique
3.3.1 Target Population
The population for this study consists of various levels of the selected department in HICM.
The choice to study the establishments was premised on their perceived standard as first-class
business school in the country. The determination of the sample size is based on all the study
level department in HICM
3.3.2 Sample Composition
A sample is the selection of a number of study units from a defined study population. A sample
is there for a small representation of a large population. The idea of sampling or determining
of sample size is to obtain a part of the population from which the entire population can be
reached on for the purpose of the study the researcher focused on HICM university of Bamenda.
The researcher is using the simple random sampling method with a total of 120 respondents.
For the purpose of this study a total of 20 respondents were selected per department (06) giving
a total respondent of 120 students respondents
3.3.3 Sampling Technique and Justification
[Link]. Sampling Technique
A stratified sampling method was adopted so as to ensure that the selected student from HICM
in the University of Bamenda North West Region of Cameroon provides appropriate data. The
aim of most investigations is to obtain information about a population. A census or sample of
the population is taken for analysis
[Link]. Sample Size
The sample size for the study was determined using Yamane’s Formula. This was used because
of the large population of the study. It is stated thus;
n=N/ (1+N (〖e) 〗^2) Where; n =
Corrected sample size N = Population
size e = Margin of error, e = 0.05
based on research conditions.
n=120/ (1+172(〖0.05) 〗^2) =120
Therefore, the sample size for the study is twenty (120) students of various levels of the
estimated 172 population of the study in HICM
[Link]. Justifications
There are several techniques of estimation that can be used to analyse the relationship between
entrepreneurship education and entrepreneurial intention of students in H.I.C.M Some of these
techniques include:
Regression analysis: This technique can be used to determine the strength and direction of the
relationship between entrepreneurship education and entrepreneurial intention of students in
H.I.C.M
It can also help identify which specific aspects of entrepreneurship education Structural
equation modelling the entrepreneurial intention of students in H.I.C.M in terms of practices
allows researchers to examine complex relationships between multiple variables and can be
used to test theoretical models of how entrepreneurship education influence entrepreneurial
intention of students in H.I.C.M
Analysis of variance (ANOVA):
ANOVA can be used to compare the means of different groups within an organization to
determine if there are significant differences in improvement and performance based on
different aspects of entrepreneurship education
Factor analysis: This technique can be used to identify underlying factors within
entrepreneurship education that may be influencing entrepreneurial intention of students in
H.I.C.M such as; funding, technology and curriculum design
3.4 Nature and Sources
3.4.1. Nature of Data Collection
The data will be collected as first-hand (primary data) information by the researcher through
the use of self-administered questionnaires which will enable the targeted population to be
covered more quickly at a reduced cost.
3.4.2. Instruments of Data Collection
The main research instrument was the questionnaire. The questionnaires were divided into two
sections (Section A to D). Section A questionnaire comprising questions relating to
participants’ biographical information while section B to D focuses on Entrepreneurship
Education, Influence on Intention, Influence on education, Impact on Personal Development
arranged using Likert statement, respondents will indicate the extent at which they Agree or
Disagree with each of the statements in the Likert format, by ticking [√] where necessary. SA
=Strongly Agree, A =Agree, U = Undecided, D = Disagree, and SD =Strongly Disagree
3.5 Model Specification, Justification of Variables, and Estimation Techniques
Model Specification, Justification of Variables, and Estimation Techniques for the Influence of
Entrepreneurship Education on Entrepreneurial Intention of Students in HICM
This model aims to analyse the influence of entrepreneurship education on the entrepreneurial
intention of students in Higher Institutions of Commerce and Management (HICM). We will
utilize a quantitative approach with a survey-based design to collect data from HICM students.
3.5.1. Model Specification Dependent Variable:
Entrepreneurial Intention (EI): This refers to the individual's likelihood or willingness to start
their own business. It can be measured using a multi-item scale that captures aspects like:
Perceived feasibility of starting a business
Attitude towards entrepreneurship
Subjective norms (perceptions of others' support for entrepreneurship)
Independent Variable:
Entrepreneurship Education (EE): This encompasses the knowledge, skills, and experiences
acquired through entrepreneurship courses, programs, or activities within the HICM. It can be
measured by assessing:
Exposure to entrepreneurship education
Perceived quality of entrepreneurship education
Practical application of entrepreneurial knowledge
Exposure to successful entrepreneurs
Moderating Variables:
• Personal Characteristics: These include factors like:
Age
Gender
Family background (entrepreneurial experience)
Risk tolerance
• Environmental Factors: These include:
Economic climate
Availability of resources (funding, mentorship)
Government support for startups
Mediating Variable:
• Entrepreneurial Self-Efficacy (ESE): This refers to an individual's belief in their ability to
successfully start and operate a business. It can be measured using a scale capturing aspects
like:
Confidence in business skills
Ability to overcome challenges
Perceived control over success
3.5.2. Justification of Variables
Entrepreneurial Intention: This is the core outcome of interest, representing the likelihood of
pursuing entrepreneurial activity.
Entrepreneurship Education: This variable directly impacts the student's knowledge, skills, and
motivation related to entrepreneurship.
Personal Characteristics: These factors play a role in shaping individual attitudes and
predispositions towards entrepreneurship.
Environmental Factors: External circumstances can influence the feasibility and desirability of
entrepreneurship.
Entrepreneurial Self-Efficacy: This variable mediates the relationship
between entrepreneurship education and intention, acting as a crucial psychological factor.
3.5.3. Estimation Techniques
• Multiple Regression Analysis: This technique can be used to examine the relationship
between entrepreneurial education, entrepreneurial intention, and the moderating variables.
• Structural Equation Modelling (SEM): This advanced technique allows for the analysis
of complex relationships between multiple variables, including mediating effects. It provides
a comprehensive picture of the model's fit and the influence of different factors.
• Bootstrapping: This method can be used to estimate the significance of the mediating
effect of entrepreneurial self-efficacy.
Graphical presentations in form of pie charts, bar graphs, and tables were used to describe the
nature of the distribution of the data obtained from respondents. The study utilized correlation
and multiple regression analysis to determine the influence of Entrepreneurship Education on
entrepreneurial intention of students in H.I.C.M Thus, the study employed linear regressions
as summarized below:
Y = β0+β1X1+β2X2+β3X3 + ɛ Where:
β0, β1, β2, β3 are coefficients;
X1- Exposure
X2-quality
X3 application
Y- Feasibility and Attitude ɛ-
Error term
3.6 Techniques of Data analysis
Descriptive statistics were used for data analysis. Specifically, means, averages and proportions
were used in the study. The data analysis tools were simple tabulations and presentations of the
report using spread sheets. The data was presented using tables, charts and graphs; Data was
first coded then organized into concepts from which generalization was made of entire
population. Data will then be tabulated and frequencies calculated on each variable under study
and interpretations made from the field findings. Percentages will then calculate and
interpretation made.
3.7 Validity of the Research Instruments
3.7.1 Validity of the research instrument
The researcher used both content and faces visibility to ascertain strength of the questionnaire.
Validity is the correctness and capacity of interpretations founded on the study results. The
research conducted the pilot study to validate the study questionnaire. Gillham (2008) explains
that understanding and expertise covered by the test items that represent a larger area of same
dynamic.
[Link] Face Validity
The instrument used for the study will be crossed-checked, corrected and validated by the
supervisor of this work. The contributions made by the supervisor will be very vital for the
attainment of face validity.
[Link] Content Validity
Content validity will be tested to ascertain whether the items in the questionnaire were suitable
for their task. Questions will be based on information gathered during the literature review for
consistency. Items which brought about confusion or misunderstanding to the respondents were
identified and modified to ensure clarity of the information in the questionnaires. Difficult
items would be sorted and reviewed for better understanding by the respondents. This would
be done by submitting the proposed questionnaire, together with the research objectives and
questions to the supervisor for review and modifications.
3.8 Reliability of the Research Instrument
According to Dane (2010) a questionnaire has the same expectation-that is reliably does what
it is designed to do every time is used. If the questionnaire is consistent over time and yields
similar results each time it is used, it is reliable. They say that because of economy in time and
labour, the procedure for extracting an estimate of reliability should be obtained from the
administration of a single test. According to Denzin and Lincoln (2005) a reliability test of
research instruments is one that consistently produces the expected results. Kothari (2004)
points out that instrument reliability refers to the level of internal consistency or the stability
of the measuring devices. The researcher can use the questionnaire and administer the
questionnaire to 80 respondents from the target population randomly. The researcher shall wait
2 weeks and then repeat the questionnaire to the same respondents.
3.9. Limitations and Tools
The limitations of data and tools in addressing the limitations of estimation techniques include:
Measurement error: Even with multiple sources of data and comprehensive data collection
methods, there may still be measurement error in the assessment of organizational culture and
employee performance. This can affect the accuracy and reliability of the results.
Resource constraints: Conducting robust analyses and using multiple methods to address
limitations requires resources such as time, expertise, and funding.
Researchers may face constraints in accessing these resources, which can limit the
effectiveness of their efforts to address limitations.
Complexity of analysis: Controlling for other factors and using multiple methods can add
complexity to the analysis, making it more challenging to interpret the results and draw
meaningful conclusions.
Data availability: Comprehensive and reliable data may not always be available, especially for
longitudinal studies. Organizations may not have historical data on organizational culture or
employee performance, or the data may be incomplete or biased.
Despite these limitations, researchers can still strive to address them by carefully considering
the quality and availability of data, minimizing measurement error, seeking necessary
resources, and carefully conducting and interpreting their analyses.
3.10 Ethical Consideration
Informed Consent
Borrowing from Oliver (2004) the researcher ensured that through the principle of informed
consent, complex as it is, and the respondents avoided of hang-ups that come with lack of clear
expectations of the research. As Oliver points out, some respondents may be impressed by the
status of the researcher, or even by the word research has used and may agree to participate
without having a good idea of what the research is all about.
Confidentiality
The researcher explained to the respondents that the data being gathered in this study is treated
in confidence and that the findings are meant for a project at HICM in the University of
Bamenda. The researcher also explained to the respondents that the data was coded and no one,
whatsoever, related the data to the respondents for both external and internal audiences of the
project.
Anonymity
The researcher accorded the respondents their due respect while at the same time ensuring that
they answer the queries as expected by the study, interjecting questions, intelligibly. The
researcher picked respondents without any discrimination. This was achieved through self-
administered questionnaires with an anonymous method of return
Voluntary Participation
The researcher sought consent from the students before administering the questionnaires.
Participants were asked to verbally consent to participate in the research, for which they are
free to participate or not to. The researcher explained to them that the information that they
gave was used only for the study
Privacy
The potential respondents are not being identified by name. Confidentiality respondents are
treated as a matter of priority. Further, the researcher used two methods in engaging these
respondents before agreeing to answer the questions of this study.
