Changing Computing Curricula in African Universities: Evaluating Progress and Challenges via Design-Reality Gap Analysis

Abstract

Information and communication technologies (ICTs) are diffusing rapidly into all African nations. Effective use of the new technology requires a step-change in local skill levels; including a step-change in ICT-related university education. Part of that process must be an updating of university computing curricula, ranging from computer science through to information systems. Adoption of international curricula offers a ready means for updating, but African universities face challenges of implementing these curricula – curricula that were typically designed for Western rather than African realities. To help understand the issues surrounding implementation of international computing curricula in Africa, we selected a case example: Ethiopian higher education. Using the design-reality gap model and its ’OPTIMISM’ checklist of dimensions, we analysed what ensued following its 2008 decision to adopt a new IEEE/ACM-inspired computing curriculum. We find that significant progress has been made, but that important gaps between design and reality – and, hence, challenges – remain. We are therefore able to identify specific actions along particular dimensions such as technology and skills that will help close design-reality gaps, and secure greater implementation. We propose that this analysis method will prove a valuable strategic tool for computing curriculum reform in other African nations.