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This research aims to create a methodology for the integration of leadership development in teaching Information Technology (IT) courses by using the Problem Based Learning method (PBL). The research objective was pursued through a review of important current and future leadership skills that IT students need to develop in order to meet IT job market challenges. A conceptual leadership model was developed. This research then investigated the alignment of this conceptual model with the skills requirements of the IT job market and the impact of employing the PBL approach. This study used a quantitative method of survey that was completed by undergraduate students enrolled in an IT web development course. Findings indicated that the use of PBL is an integral part of the process of daily leadership development in teaching IT courses. Students’ perceptions were studied and positive views were recorded.

The study investigates the relationship between university and industries in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The research calls for building a bridge between universities and industries and rallies for enhanced "cogency" of information technology education, strengthening the academia to industry partnership. This was influenced by discussions with female Emirati undergraduates at Zayed University in Dubai in 2009, where graduates from the College of Information Technology proposed means to initiate creating feasible and sustaining links between local tertiary educational institutions and local industries. Approaches were used to support collaboration between academia and industry, and college programs were employed to narrow the gap between university education and industry. Undergraduate programs need to adapt to industry to ensure graduates gain industry-demanded skills and experience. The investigation suggests that practical and constructive measures are to be taken to effectively develop collaboration between university and industries.