Identifying Entrepreneurial Attitudes of Agricultural students: Application of Q Methodology

Abstract
The main purpose of this study was to identifying entrepreneurial attitudes of
agriculture students by using Q methodology. The dominant paradigm of this study
was mixed methodology (qualitative - quantitative). The study population of this
study consisted of all the fourth year undergraduate agriculture students at Razi
University that 30 of whom were selected for the study by using purposefully
method and focus group discussion technique. Based on interviews with students in
the focus groups discussion, 36 statements were extracted that in the form of a
questionnaire consisted of 36 cards and a letter of response (Q diagram) was
presented to the students in order to determine the extent of their agreement or
disagreement with them. The data was analyzed by using SPSSWin20 software and Q
exploratory factor analysis. The results of this study revealed that entrepreneurial
attitudes of agriculture students at Razi University was consisted five dimensions;
effort oriented, creative, risk-taking, responsible, and manager oriented. Results of
this study have applications for planners of higher agricultural education system in
order to improving the entrepreneurial attitudes of agricultural students.