Graduate attributes in computing disciplines desirable to prepare graduates for entry into computing profession in Nigeria

The purpose of this study was to identify the important graduate attributes in computing disciplines perceived by lecturers of the three sectors of Nigerian Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) desirable for entry into computing profession in Nigeria. The descriptive survey research design was adopted. Fifty (50) academic staff of computer related disciplines from each of the HEIs sectors (Universities, Polytechnics and Colleges of Education) in the North-Central Nigeria were screened and used through convenience random and purposive sampling methods. The Computing Disciplines’ Graduate Attributes Scale (CDGAS) (r = 0.82) was the research instrument used in gleaning the field data. Four research questions were raised and one hypothesis formulated, tested and analyzed using Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) statistical package. The findings identified 13, 17 and 16 important graduate attributes desirable to prepare graduates from Nigerian Universities, Polytechnic and Colleges of Educations (COEs) respectively for entry into computing profession. Common amongst the identified graduate attributes are: collaboration and teamwork, lifelong learning skills, cognitive ability and practical skills, effective communication skills and leadership quality. Also, result from hypothesis testing showed a significant relationship amongst the identified graduate attributes in computing discipline in all sectors of HIEs in Nigeria. (F = 0.610; Critical Value = 3.12; P < 0.05). Conclusively, the study recommended that career development support efforts should be included in the curriculum, which will focus on helping prospective graduate in computing related discipline on their academic abilities, personal qualities and skills