Business Students’ Perceptions of Information Systems

There has been much debate about the declining enrolment numbers and low retention of students within the field of Information Systems. To better understand the reasons behind the decline, there needs to be an understanding of business students’ perceptions of information systems as a field of study and work. This paper highlights key factors which influence student perceptions of information systems. Some of the factors identified are: gender, culture, race, maturity, prior exposure, influences and job market conditions. The literature will then outline two models that conceptualise key factors of choice and perceptions. As a result of the literature review, gaps are identified and analysed. A conclusion is then put forward in the form of a summary with recommendations to further research in this field. Based on the data from 55 empirical survey respondents, it was found that not all of the abovementioned factors could be analysed. It was found that gender and race have varied influences on perceptions, and that not all of the perceptions are aligned to what was previously claimed in similar research