Investigating the effectiveness of using an integrated project to improve transferability of IT skills to the workplace

Abstract

This study was initiated following an investigation into using an Integrated Project (IP) as a learning experience to improve the skills of students at Peninsula Technikon. The literature reviewed indicated a variety of skills required for IT staff in general, but no importance was indicated for the various skills. The objectives of the study were: To identify the critical skills from literature and industry for entry-level software developers; 2 To determine from the lecturing staff's perspective, which skills they regard as the critical skills for entry-level software developers; 3 To determine from the students' perspective, whether the IP had equipped them with skills needed to be effective in the workplace; and 4 From the findings of the study to identify the components of a potentially effective lP. To fulfill the objectives, data was gathered by means of various questionnaires completed by industry representatives, lecturers and students. The results of the study revealed that a mismatch existed between the skill importance rating of companies and the skill ratings of students, especially with regard to their Programming and Database skills. The study further revealed that the JP did not contribute more to the skills competence of students than the other forms of learning experiences. The JP should provide the vehicle to increase students' skill competency levels and deeper understanding. by including the critical skills required by industry. The key skills identified from this study for an entry level software developer to be productive in industry namely, Debugging/Error Trapping, Teamwork! Group work, General Programming, Database Relationships, Data-Access and Written Communications should be included in the JP. It is possible that a well designed JP can narrow the gap between industry expectations and student performance.