An assessment of information systems education needs in Taiwan

Abstract

Educational programmes in the information systems (IS) area should equip graduates with skills needed by employers. An assessment of the IS educational needs is critical to keep IS curricula relevant to the workplace. Two questionnaires were developed to assess 46 specific IS areas and skills, 10 university-industry collaboration activities, and training requirements for IS graduates. Sixty-two information technology vendors and 202 information system employers in Taiwan participated in two different surveys. Results indicate that both general and technical skills are important. Students need to improve their communication skills and understanding of business needs. Deficient technical areas are project management, systems analysis and design, telecommunications and database management. University-industry collaboration has to be enhanced in the areas of conference participation, training programmes and consulting contracts. © 1994 Butterworth-Heinemann Ltd.