Research Projects

This research will examine the role of cognitive predisposition in the ability of university students to operationalize innovation. Using Regulatory Focus Theory as a lens, different university curricula from schools teaching innovation will be compared to determine if there is a specific way in which innovation could be taught to allow the most number of students to operationalize the concept of innovation. Finally, innovation as a concept will be connected to entrepreneurship and creativity and the scope of the research widened for further study.

Innovation and creativity are the lifeblood of organizations.  As such, businesses expect college graduates to exhibit the skills necessary to engage in these behaviors.  This research explores the concept of innovation, whether it is innate, or if the skill can be taught within the university setting, and how universities are addressing the need for, and teaching innovation.  A search of the word “innovation” within educational courses found that most courses are theoretically-oriented or are efforts to cultivate entrepreneurs and/or new inventions, though some appear more practical in nature. A review of colleges and universities offering courses in innovation found that approximately half the universities reviewed offered courses in innovation. This work contributes to the discussion of business education regarding innovation and the importance of aligning business education with organizational needs.