Does metacognition drive innovation? The case of entrepreneurial firms in Kenya

Abstract

The study tested whether metacognition drives innovativeness in small and medium size enterprises in Kenya. We sought to extend this line of cognitive research in developing economies by using data derived from small and medium sized enterprises, because the sector is a key pillar in the innovation process and economic growth. The study utilised a sample of 466 small and medium enterprises (SMEs) drawn from Kenya. Partial least square (PLS) Structural Equation Modelling was used to test the hypothesis. We found support for the hypothesised relationship, that metacognition drives innovativeness. Specifically, metacognitive experience and metacognitive awareness were found to have a positive and significant effect on innovativeness, while metacognitive knowledge was not found to have a significant relationship with innovativeness.