Towards Developing Industry-Driven Curricular Offering: An Industry Needs Analysis for Computer Engineering Program

Abstract

The study determined the needs of the manufacturing industries in CALABARZON in terms of graduate competencies, skills and values, and the curricular and non-curricular components that support the qualifications for Computer Engineering graduates. A random sample of 10 industrial manufacturing zones were identified and 147 manufacturing companies participated in the study. Data were gathered from 147 representative human resource (HR) managers/supervisors and 188 computer engineers using a validated researcher-developed questionnaire. Results show that there is a demand for degree holders for most positions in line with Computer Engineering who demonstrate confidentiality, integrity, objectivity, professional behavior. The top five competencies include managing and maintaining system (network security; hardware and software), practicing professional ethics, troubleshooting, repairing and
restoring hardware/software and network, designing and developing appropriate computing solutions to problems, and producing good documentation and technical manual. Computer engineers should have logical thinking and reasoning abilities, problem solving skill, strategic and analytical thinking skills. The values required of computer engineers are confidentiality, professional behavior, integrity and moral values. Basic general and core courses, as well as the professional courses, contribute to the holistic development of a student in preparation for transition to the workplace.