Evaluating tasks, competency and educational program effectiveness: case study of IT undergraduate

The purpose of this study was to investigate the tasks of Information Technology specialists; determining their competency for performing tasks and tasks of IT educational programme in order to foster competency, and also evaluating IT undergraduate programme efficiency in Iran. A qualitative case study research methodology was chosen for this study. Research tools included documentary studies and semi-structured interviews. The results showed that IT specialists’ tasks take place in thirty two occupations. Other findings revealed that IT specialists competency in Iran included eighteen elements, some of which are: academic education, knowledge for problem solving, problem analysis, design and development of solutions, modern tool usage, individual and teamwork skills, communication, professionalism, ethics, lifelong learning, cultural awareness, accountability, judging and work autonomy. Results also showed competency should be fostered through two stages, namely an “accredited educational program” and “formative development”, and measured through a “competency test” and be maintained and continued through “continuing professional development”. This process is known as the “engineering competency lifecycle”. A lack or inefficiency of a stage will have undesirable effects on other stages. International reference bodies such as «IEA», «ENAEE» and the «CDIO» project are benchmarking and determining IT international educational standards and criteria for standardization and quality improvement of engineering programs. All IT undergraduate programs in Iran should be developed in accordance with international criteria. Findings showed that IT undergraduate programs in Iran do not meet international criteria and should be modified.