THE PROFILE OF TECHNOLOGY COURSE STUDENTS: a case study with entrants of the ProfiTec Analysis and Development of Systems course at Uema Campus Itapecuru Mirim

Abstract

This study analyzes the profile of those entering the Analysis and Development of Systems course at the State University of Maranhão (UEMA), Itapecuru Mirim campus, using Google Forms. Technology courses cover specific fields of the job market in a shorter time, attracting students with different profiles. This work is justified by providing a broad view of students' knowledge and class level, assisting with pedagogical issues. The literature review addresses the history and conceptualization of technology courses in Brazil. The methodology included bibliographic research and data collection through a questionnaire with 19 questions, covering topics such as age, level of education, IT experience, programming knowledge, course choice, academic difficulties and professional perspectives. The data, statistically and qualitatively analyzed, were presented by graphs in Microsoft Excel. The results showed that the predominant age group is 20 to 35 years old, with a majority of students from public schools, students new to the area and employed in other sectors. The majority chose the course motivated by the job market and the flexibility of the classes in UEMA's Professional Technological Training Program (Profitec). It is concluded that those entering the ADS course do not have prior knowledge nor are they working in the area.