Perceptions of key Stakeholders (Students andLecturing Staff): Integrating IT IndustryCertification into Irish Institutes ofTechnology (IoT's)

Abstract: IT industry certification and its position in academia continue to be a highly contemporary issue. This paper explains IT industry certification, its origin, and its current state. The main focus of this paper is to represent the findings of two preliminary studies undertaken: a student questionnaire and a focus group for lecturing staff. The purpose of both initial studies was to ascertain the perceptions of the main stakeholders in relation to integrating IT industry certification into Irish Institutes of Technology (IoTs). For the purpose of this study a summary of the findings will be outlined. However, it is important to note that the findings from both studies along with the literature will help to design a framework that will help construct the main research instrument for the main study.