Author ORCID Identifier
Tsuyoshi Kano: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3821-9326
Maheen Mati: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0083-899X
Kentaro Toyama: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9128-2255
Abstract
In low- and middle-income countries, ICT professionals with soft skills have been recognized as potential leaders for economic growth, and professional experience abroad is an effective way to obtain soft skills. However, only a limited number of people have the opportunity to go abroad. In our research, we sought to understand whether soft skills such as those learned from international professional experience can be obtained through a domestic training course provided to Bangladeshi ICT professionals who aspired to work abroad. Through a randomized controlled trial, we found a mix of immediate effects of the training and latent effects that could be observed only after participants started working, especially when they worked abroad. Moreover, we find that training, while having some impact on conscientiousness, seems to be insufficient on its own—actual experience with the new environment seems to play a critical role. This study found evidence that the effectiveness of training strategies depends on the design of the training content, as well as when and where the effects of the intervention are expected to be observed.
Recommended Citation
Kano, T.,
Matin, M.,
&
Toyama, K.
(In press).
Preparing for a Change in Global Workspace Culture —Impact Evaluation of Soft Skills Training for Bangladeshi ICT Professionals.
Information Technology for Development.
Available at:
https://aisel.aisnet.org/itd/vol32/iss2/21