Communications of the ACM
Encouraging the Next Generation of It Workers
Lecturers have suggested that advanced mathematics is a better preparation for IT than computer studies.
Credit: College of Saint Rose
The number of information and communications technology General Certificate of Secondary Education students in the United Kingdom has dropped 33 percent, according to a Royal Society study, which also found a 57 percent drop in advanced computing students in the past eight years. "The biggest issue is the negative effect the current system will have on future careers in this sector," says E-skills UK's Margaret Sambell.
Sambell says the education system is not producing the right mix of information technology (IT) and business skills required for modern employers. "With globalization, a lot of programming and testing work is sourced overseas and the work in the U.K. is much more centered on business integration of technology," she says. Software professionals who can deliver business benefits from technology are the most in demand roles in IT management, strategy, and planning, according to E-skills' research.
Employers are trying to improve IT education themselves. Five years ago, 50 employers developed a partnership with E-skills and 13 universities. "Students on this course are learning how to manage technology projects as well as derive business benefits from technology," Sambell says.
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