AN ANALYSIS OF PROGRAMMING SKILL DEFICIENCIES IN COMPUTER SCIENCE GRADUATES- A SURVEY

Abstract

By far, one of the largest hurdles for computer graduates is acquiring and refining strong programming skills and yet those are mandatory in the fields of dynamic IT.
Universities and independent colleges can put in all the effort they want, but there is a knowledge gap between what a student learns in academic institutions and what one expects from an industry employer. This research delves into the gaps by surveying 25 experienced IT professionals in senior positions in their organizations in Pune city. The survey instrumented test on various aspects of the transition a graduate has to undergo while moving to the IT industry, the list of key skills and domain knowledge to be successful in the industry, and the shortfall identified in the preparedness of academics to equip students with the necessary attributes. A thorough analysis of the responses available led to a range of actionable recommendations for both students intending to equip themselves better for employability and academic institutions wishing to improve their programs and have more impact on the constantly evolving needs of industry through both this program and the skills graduates can deliver. The paper concludes with the discourse on some recent trends that are shaping and defining the landscape of the IT sector and the programming skills that are indispensable for an aspiring IT professional desiring to make meaningful contributions.