Linking Digital Entrepreneurial Education to Behavior: Mediating Roles of Intention, Self-Efficacy and Opportunity Recognition

Abstract

This study examines the sequential impact of digital entrepreneurial education on digital entrepreneurial behavior, focusing on mindset, passion, and motivation. Drawing on theories of entrepreneurship and digital innovation, the research examines how education fosters the cognitive and affective foundations that drive entrepreneurial action in digital contexts. Findings confirm that digital entrepreneurial education has a significant impact on shaping the entrepreneurial mindset, which in turn nurtures entrepreneurial passion. Passion was found to be a strong predictor of digital entrepreneurial motivation, ultimately leading to proactive digital entrepreneurial behavior. The supported hypotheses highlight the importance of education not only as a source of knowledge but also as a catalyst for mindset development, emotional engagement, and sustained motivation. The results contribute to the growing body of literature on digital entrepreneurship by establishing a comprehensive pathway from education to behavior. Practically, policymakers and educators should design integrated programs that cultivate mindset, passion, and motivation to strengthen entrepreneurial ecosystems.