Employer perceptions of technology graduates from historically Black colleges and universities: A Q methodological study
by Jackson, Terence, Ph.D., WALDEN UNIVERSITY, 2007, 135 pages; 3277887

Abstract:

Technology jobs are projected to double over the next five years. Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) technology graduates entering the workforce seek the same career opportunities as graduates from nonHBCUs; however, such equity remains clearly inadequate within the United States. This research investigated the lack of employment opportunities for technology graduates from Historically Black Colleges and Universities. A mixed-model approach, Q methodology, identified employer perceptions. Q methodology has a proven history of illuminating agreement and differences among individual and group perceptions. Six employers participated in this study. The research questions were developed to expose and identify employer perceptions. Correlation and factor analysis were used to analyze the data. The results of this study show participants in the study perceived HBCU technology graduates as intelligent, possessing the necessary skills to succeed in the workplace, and being recipients of high-quality educations from high-quality institutions. However, the results also indicate that HBCU technology graduates do not have the same employment opportunities as their peers at nonHBCUs. By exposing and identifying employer perceptions of HBCU technology graduates, this study increases the understanding of employer perceptions of HBCU technology graduates. Using the systems thinking approach, HBCUs and employers can collaborate to develop a recruiting process targeted at improving employment opportunities for these technology graduates. This research provides insight into how employers perceive HBCU technology graduates. HBCU career development centers can develop strategies to attract more employers to recruit at their campuses.

 
AdviserRaghu Korrapati
SchoolWALDEN UNIVERSITY
SourceDAI/A 68-09, p. , Apr 2008
Source TypeDissertation
SubjectsBlack studies; Management
Publication Number3277887
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