Communication and leadership skills in the Computer Science and Information Systems curricula: A case study comparison of US and Bulgarian programs
Files
Accepted manuscript
Date
2016
DOI
Authors
Kanabar, Vijay K.
Kaloyanova, Kalinka
Version
OA Version
Citation
VK Kanabar, K Kaloyanova. 2016. "Communication and Leadership Skills in the Computer Science and Information Systems Curricula: A Case Study Comparison of US and Bulgarian Programs." Computer Science & Education in Computer Science, Volume 1, pp. 75 - 88.
Abstract
In this paper we present results from our curriculum research on the behavioral educational topics being in the computer science (CS) and information systems (IS) academic programs in two countries USA and Bulgaria. Specifically, we address learning outcomes as they pertain to IT Project Management. Our research reveals that the two countries approach undergraduate education from different vantage points. The US universities provide a flexible general education curriculum in many academic areas and students have the opportunity to strengthen their soft skills before they enter the workforce. Bulgarian universities provide specialized education in main CS subject areas and the students are technically strong upon graduation. Is there a way to balance out this divergent educational experience so that students get the best of both worlds? Our paper explores this aspect and provides possible solutions.