Research Proposal:

“Analyzing University Students' Entrepreneurial Intentions under the Influence

of the COVID-19 Pandemic”
Relevance:
The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted economies and job markets
worldwide. This has led to increased attention towards entrepreneurship as a
potential career path, particularly for young adults. University students, already at a
crucial stage of career decision-making, are potentially more susceptible to this shift.
Examining their entrepreneurial intentions during this unique period holds significant
relevance for several reasons:
 Understanding Motivations and Barriers: Identifying the factors influencing
students' decisions to pursue entrepreneurship amid the pandemic can inform
better support mechanisms and educational programs.
 Predicting Future Trends: This research can contribute to understanding the
potential long-term impact of the pandemic on entrepreneurial activity,
shaping future economic development strategies.
 Informing Policy and Education: Findings can guide policymakers and
educators in fostering entrepreneurial spirit and equipping students with
relevant skills for navigating evolving markets.
Context:
Prior to the pandemic, research on entrepreneurial intentions has focused on
personal characteristics, social influences, and access to resources. The COVID-19
pandemic introduces a complex new context characterized by:
 Economic uncertainty: Increased unemployment and business closures
raise concerns about job security, potentially pushing students towards
entrepreneurship.
 Digital transformation: The shift to online environments creates new
opportunities for innovative ventures, influencing students' perceptions of
feasibility.
Social and psychological impact: Pandemic-related stress and changes in social
interaction might affect students' risk tolerance and entrepreneurial aspirations.
Approach:
This research will employ a mixed-methods approach to gain a comprehensive
understanding of the phenomenon:
  Quantitative Survey: A large-scale survey will be conducted among
university students to measure their entrepreneurial intentions, perceptions of
the pandemic's impact, and relevant demographic and psychological factors.
 Qualitative Interviews: In-depth interviews with a smaller group of students
will provide richer insights into their motivations, challenges, and experiences
related to entrepreneurship during the pandemic.
 Analysis: Statistical analysis will be used to identify significant correlations
between variables and potential causal relationships. Qualitative data will be
thematically analyzed to understand underlying experiences and
perspectives.
Feasibility:
The feasibility of this research is supported by several factors:
 Accessibility: Large university populations provide a readily available sample
for surveys and interviews.
 Existing Knowledge: Previous research on entrepreneurial intentions and
the pandemic's impact on related fields provides a strong foundation.
 Collaboration: Partnerships with universities and entrepreneurial support
organizations can facilitate data collection and dissemination of findings.
Expected Outcomes:
This research is expected to produce the following outcomes:
A comprehensive model: Identifying the key factors influencing university students'
entrepreneurial intentions during the COVID-19 pandemic.
 Actionable insights: Providing recommendations for universities,
policymakers, and support organizations to encourage and support informed
entrepreneurial pursuits among students.
 Contribution to theory: Expanding the understanding of entrepreneurial
intention formation in the context of major societal disruptions.
Conclusion:
This research proposal outlines a feasible and relevant study on the critical topic of
university students' entrepreneurial intentions in the post-pandemic landscape. By
employing a mixed-methods approach and leveraging existing knowledge, this
research aims to provide valuable insights for stakeholders and contribute to the
advancement of entrepreneurship theory.
Conceptual framework:
“Analyzing University Students' Entrepreneurial Intentions under the Influence
of the COVID-19 Pandemic”