The State of Information Systems in Australian Universities - Tasmanian Report

Abstract

This paper examines Information Systems at the University of Tasmania. The study draws upon a theoretical framework reported earlier. In common with studies conducted elsewhere in the region, this investigation utilised data collected on five themes. The study aimed to characterise Information Systems at the University of Tasmania, as well as to investigate the relationship between the impact of local contingencies on a discipline and its degree of professionalism, within the Tasmanian context. Data were collected through a qualitative survey with seven influential academics associated with the discipline at the University, and from statistical sources. The findings suggest that an inverse relationship exists between the impact of local factors and the degree of professionalism in this IS setting. A surprising finding was that the relationship found varied for research and teaching issues.