Assessing Computing Literacy of Business Students in a Regional University: Prospects for the 90's

Authors

Minoo S. Amini, Ball State University

Abstract

The requirements of computing literacy for business students who are not majoring in Management Information Systems (MIS) are changing. A survey was conducted to explore the impact of MIS courses on the perceived computing literacy of the business students in a regional university. The findings suggest that on a broader scale MIS courses provided the basis for the students to become computing literate. The majority of students applied their computer skills to other courses and of those who worked, more than half utilized their computer skills in their current job. However, students' self-reported knowledge of software such as data communications and programming languages was quite low, an indication that the MIS curriculum is modeled after the conventional system emphasizing microcomputer applications packages, a system which is rapidly becoming obsolete. In addition, the contradiction observed in the responses of students regarding their perception of computing literacy and their reported knowledge levels warrants attention. Specifically, while over 70% of the students evaluated themselves as being computing literate, their confidence of their knowledge of hardware and software was quite low. Regional universities may need to re-examine their curriculum offerings in accordance with the demands of industry and changing needs of the workforce, in order to prepare graduates to meet those demands. This need is emphasized in the light of the role these universities play in providing educational opportunities for the communities surrounding them.

Recommended Citation

Amini, Minoo S. (1993) "Assessing Computing Literacy of Business Students in a Regional University: Prospects for the 90's," Journal of Information Systems Education: Vol. 5 : Iss. 3 , 23-30.
Available at: https://aisel.aisnet.org/jise/vol5/iss3/4