Practical PC skills of newly qualified chartered accountants : a study of the training programme of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in Ireland

Abstract

Substantial literature studied here showed the need for practical personal computing (PC) skills among accounting professionals. However, the effectiveness of PC courses designed to inculate these skills in accountants has not been investigated. This article examines the perceptions of newly qualified members of ICAI on their PC skills prior and post undertaking the Institute's PC skills programme. It finds significant perceived improvement in PC skills after completing the programme. However, notwithstanding this improvement, concern was expressed among newly qualified members that the Institute was not taking advantage of students’ existing PC knowledge and developing more advanced and integrated programmes which are necessary to meet the needs of their work environment and professional careers.