The role of human capital attributes and content knowledge in enhancing undergraduate innovative capability

Abstract

This study examines undergraduates' innovative capabilities in a higher learning institution. Human capital attributes, such as individual characteristics and social skills, were adopted that might influence innovative capability among students. Additionally, this paper examines the moderating role of content knowledge in these relationships. Individual characteristics and social skills are essential in strengthening young people's innovative capabilities. Research suggests that firms should be more involved and engaged with universities to generate high-impact innovations. Synergistic collaborations may help many developing countries create impactful innovations. Thus, understanding the factors influencing innovative capabilities among undergraduates seems important as higher learning institutions are the backbone of developing future human capital. A quantitative research design was employed using an online survey questionnaire. The data was gathered through a purposive sampling technique from 140 students at the Universiti Teknologi Mara, Melaka, Malaysia. Hierarchical regression analysis revealed that individual characteristics and social skills significantly impact innovative capability. The inclusion of content knowledge as the moderator did not provide support for the moderation hypotheses but it did add a 1% variation in the innovative capability. The theoretical and managerial implications for fostering innovativeness among undergraduates are also discussed.