Competencies of Filipino IT Workers in Australia and Their Level of Job Satisfaction: Basis for IT Curriculum Enhancement in the Senior High School Program

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the IT competencies of Filipino IT workers and their level of job satisfaction in Australia. Specifically, this research addressed six key objectives by profiling respondents, evaluating their IT competency levels in technical, managerial, and socio-interpersonal areas, measuring their job satisfaction in terms of economic security, professional growth, and socio-cultural adaptability, analyzing the relationship between competency levels and job satisfaction, examining differences in IT competencies and job satisfaction based on demographic characteristics, and designing an IT curriculum enrichment plan. Employing an adapted survey questionnaire that used Slovin’s formula as a sampling method, 382 Filipino IT workers across Australia were surveyed during the Australian Fiscal Year 2023 - 2024. Statistical tools such as weighted mean, frequency distribution, percentages, standard deviation, Pearson-r, and Analysis of Variance were applied for data analysis. Findings indicated that Filipino IT workers are well competent in their IT competencies but competent only in technical competency. Filipino IT workers are much satisfied with their job satisfaction in Australia, but satisfied only with professional growth. A significant relationship was found between IT competencies and job satisfaction. Job position levels affected IT competencies, while the number of years working in IT in Australia and visa status impacted job satisfaction. The study revealed a gap in the area of Computer Networking, and herein proposed enrichment topics into the K to 12 key learning areas of K to 12 and ICT tracks, as part of the ICT Curriculum Enrichment Plan.