Modes of learning and entrepreneurial knowledge. (2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Politis, Diamanto; Gabrielsson, Jonas
• Is Part Of: International journal of innovation and learning. Volume 18:Number 1(2015)
• Page Start: 101
• Page End: 122
• Publication Date: 2015
• Subjects: entrepreneurship -- entrepreneurial knowledge -- innovation -- learning -- exploration -- exploitation -- learning modes -- business opportunities -- opportunity recognition -- career experience; Knowledge management -- Periodicals; Learning -- Periodicals; Diffusion of innovations -- Periodicals; 006.33
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1471-8197

Abstract

In this study, we examine how entrepreneurs differ in their modes of learning and whether variations in modes of learning have any influence on their possession of entrepreneurial knowledge that increase their ability to recognise and exploit new business opportunities. Based on statistical analysis of 291 entrepreneurs we find that a learning mode that favours exploration is positively associated with the ability to recognise a higher number of business opportunities. A learning mode that favours exploitation is on the other hand negatively associated with the ability to cope with liabilities of newness. Adding to this, we find that the positive association between career experience and entrepreneurial knowledge is stronger with a learning mode that favours exploration.