An Exploratory Investigation of the Value of the Data-Related Skills Enumerated in AACSB Standard A7

• In Event: Exploratory Studies

Abstract

The AACSB recently adopted Accreditation Standard A7: Information Technology Skills and Knowledge for Accounting Graduates, which incorporates recent advances in communication and technology into the accreditation standards for accounting programs. Our study defines key data-related concepts in Standard A7, identifies applications of these concepts in the workplace and the classroom, explores the value of these concepts in the business world through a survey of current practitioners, and offers practical suggestions for implementing Standard A7 in accounting programs.
Results of our survey indicate that all but one of the Standard A7 skills is perceived to be as or more valuable than other accounting skills. We also find variation in the perceived value of A7 skills between practitioners from different functional areas and between practitioners employed at different types of organizations. In response to open-ended survey questions, practitioners recommended that accounting departments emphasize spreadsheet skills, data analytics, critical thinking, communication skills, and data extraction skills.

Authors

• Diane J Janvrin, Iowa State University

• James N Cannon, Iowa State University

• Christine A Denison, Iowa State University

• Jennifer Kreiser, Iowa State University