Changing Computer Skills of Incoming Undergraduate Business Majors

Abstract

The research assesses the changing computer skills of incoming business students at the undergraduate level between the years 1990 and 1996. It was found that significant improvements have taken place in almost all areas of computing skills over a six-year time period. These skills pertain to word processing, database, and spreadsheets as well as computer hardware basics. There is one area where students' knowledge has reduced over time. This area is computer programming. More and more students are learning these skills at an early age and more of them have access to personal computers. A vast majority of students are familiar with current computing topics such as Internet and multi-media. The research revealed that Hispanics and Black students are somewhat disadvantaged as to their access to personal computers when compared with whites and Asian Americans. However, the study did not determine if computing skills are affected by the racial background of students. The present study has some significant impact on the content of the introductory information systems course that is taught in schools of business. As more and more students get access to personal computers at home, the pressure on schools of business to acquire state-of-the-art computer hardware and software may be decreased.

A Comparative Analysis of Computer Skills of Business Students in Singapore and Southern California

“…Several research has investigated computer skills of university students in the United States. Khan and Jessup (1991) have studied basic computer skills of incoming business students in one university in Southern California [1]. Khan researched changing computer skills of business students in the same university six years later and found significant changes in skill levels [2].…”

“…Khan and Jessup (1991) have studied basic computer skills of incoming business students in one university in Southern California [1]. Khan researched changing computer skills of business students in the same university six years later and found significant changes in skill levels [2]. Other studies have examined necessary skills required of Information Systems (IS) students and skills possessed by IS students [3][4][5][6][7][8][9][10][11].…”

Implementing Computer Mediated Communication in the College Classroom

“…Not only are students familiar with the word-processing and game-playing functions of their computers, but more and more of today's high school students are internet literate as well [18]. By the time they reach college, many have already begun to use computers as learning tools [19]. Furthermore, educators at all levels are encouraged to implement computer-aided instruction, as it is assumed that students benefit from computer use in the classroom [17].…”