Practical knowledge in preparing financial statements and ICT-enabled financial plans: An empirical study among entrepreneurial students in Oman

Abstract

Objective: This paper aims to examine practical knowledge in preparing financial statements (FStts), practical knowledge in information and communication technology (ICT) and ICT-enabled financial plan (ICTeFP) among entrepreneurial students within Universities in Oman. Research Design & Methods: Primary data were collected from university students to analyze practical knowledge in preparing FStts and related ICT skills. Items of FStts were considered to measure entrepreneurial students’ practical knowledge to prepare FStts. Besides, entrepreneurial students’ skills in basic Microsoft tools have also been considered. Findings: The findings were evaluated by applying structural equation modelling-partial least squares (SEM-PLS). The findings of the current study reveal that entrepreneurial students’ practical knowledge in preparing FStts is lacking whereas it shows that the students possess adequate basic skills in ICT. Thus, automated ICTeFP can be useful in managing entrepreneurship creativity and innovation course more effectively. Implications & Recommendations: The findings suggest that ICTeFP is an excellent contribution to enrich the recently compulsory course, (both for accounting and non-accounting students), entrepreneurship creativity, and innovation. Contribution & Value Added: The study solely for the entrepreneurial students who are studying the course, entrepreneurship creativity and innovation, in Oman. The research is one of the first to empirically analyze the relationship between practical knowledge in preparing FStts, practical knowledge in ICT, and ICTeFP among entrepreneurial students within universities in Oman.

Keywords

• Entrepreneurship
• Creativity
• Innovation
• ICT
• Financial Plan
• Oman