The role of information technology education within the current secondary level information communication technology education program in Wisconsin

Abstract

This mixed methods descriptive study looks to answer the following research questions in regard to secondary education: 1) aside from general business and marketing skills, what Information Communication Technology (ICT) knowledge and skills should secondary-level ICT Education contribute to a Business Management and Administration program of study, 2) how should a student develop their ICT knowledge and skills within the context of their academic and career development coursework, and 3) how should students experience ICT in their preparation to competently work in Business Management and Administration? The study found that business and education respondents differed in their support and application of information communications technology (ICT). While they differ in software and hardware preference in their respective settings, there is agreement of fundamental expectations on student proficiency across word processing, visual presentation, and spreadsheet applications. Education respondents, especially in regard to ICT competencies for students taking Business and information technology focused courses employ the Microsoft Office Suite in the preparation of students for business career pathways.