The impact of vocational core competencies on entrepreneurial motivation among vocational college students: the mediating role of innovative self-efficacy and the moderating role of current educational level

Cultivating vocational core competencies is foundational for advancing national education quality and promoting student success. Despite its critical importance, current research has largely overlooked the specific influence of vocational core competencies on the entrepreneurial motivation of vocational college students. Addressing this gap is essential, as it provides valuable insights for enhancing vocational education. This study surveyed 557 vocational college students from Beijing, averaging 21.66 years (SD = 2.25), with 199 males (35.73%) and 358 females (64.27%). To thoroughly examine the influence of vocational core competencies on entrepreneurial motivation, and to test the mediating role of innovative self-efficacy alongside the moderating role of current educational level (in progress), we adopted a multi-scale approach. This involved the utilization of three validated scales: the Vocational Core Competencies Scale, the Entrepreneurial Motivation Scale, and the Innovative Self-Efficacy Scale. Our analysis indicated a statistically significant positive correlation among vocational core competencies, entrepreneurial motivation, and innovative self-efficacy among vocational college students. Vocational core competencies emerged as a strong positive predictor of entrepreneurial motivation, with innovative self-efficacy fully mediating this relationship. Additionally, current educational level (in progress) moderated the interplay between vocational core competencies, innovative self-efficacy, and entrepreneurial motivation. Based on these findings, vocational colleges must integrate the cultivation of vocational core competencies into their talent development programs, ensuring it permeates the entire process. Emphasis should be placed on enhancing students’ innovative self-efficacy, particularly those pursuing bachelor’s degrees through vocational pathways. This approach is vital for effectively boosting students’ innovative and entrepreneurial capabilities, equipping them with the necessary skills and mindset to excel in today’s dynamic and competitive job market.