Analysis of learning assignments applying ERP-Systems in textbooks for commercial colleges in Austria

Enterprise-Resource-Planning-Systems (ERP-Systems) – such as SAP, BaaN, Infor LN, MS Dynamics, WinLine and BMD – are becoming increasingly important for private and public enterprises and NGOs around the globe. The use of ERP-Systems leads to changing (vocational) working routines. ERP-Systems are therefore an important subject for vocational education and – from a scientific viewpoint – a research topic of high interest. However, only a very limited number of journal articles are available that address the use of ERP-systems in the context of business education. This article contributes to this field of research with an analysis of learning assignments applying ERP-Systems. First, the theoretical background for the analysis of learning assignments applying standard commercial software (ERP-systems) is outlined. Second, the results of a qualitative content analysis study on 1,921 learning assignments in textbooks for commercial colleges in Austria are presented and discussed. The paper is concluded by recommendations for action and the most important implications for future work and future research and development in this field