Recognizing high-tech opportunities: A learning and cognitive approach

Abstract

The primary objective of this study is to examine the relationship between an individuals learning mode, cognitive style, human capital and his or her ability to recognize and develop opportunities in a high technology environment. This study contributes to the current research by providing empirical evidence that suggests that the manner in which one assimilates and processes information has a significant impact on ones ability to recognize opportunities. This work brings a new concept into the current conversation from educational psychologicallearning modeand details its importance in the opportunity recognition process. The study also substantiates Barons (1998) proposition regarding the importance of cognitive mechanisms, and extends Shanes (2000) research regarding prior knowledge.