Software Engineering Skillset Assessment Dataset for Computer Science Students

The Software Engineering Skillset Dataset focuses on three critical areas: Soft Skills, Life Skills, and Technical Skills. These components are essential for assessing and predicting the software engineering competencies of computer science students. Data for the dataset was collected through a carefully designed questionnaire, targeting students enrolled in software engineering courses at higher educational institutions across Kerala, India. Over two thousand students participated in the survey, which used a dedicated assessment quiz with fifteen questions to evaluate each skill category. Responses were recorded on a six-point scale: 0 ("Never"), 1 ("Rarely"), 2 ("Sometimes"), 3 ("Often"), 4 ("Mostly"), and 5 ("Always").

The dataset is structured as a classification problem with two categories: proficient and not proficient. Students achieving more than 60% in each skill area are classified as proficient. To ensure a thorough evaluation, the survey was divided into three segments and included a total of 54 questions. Soft Skills were assessed through five tests covering 18 attributes, while Life Skills were evaluated via five tests focusing on nine attributes that emphasize workplace practices and personal development strategies. Technical Skills were measured using five tests that addressed nine specific features.

This dataset allows for an in-depth analysis of both individual and combined skillsets, providing valuable insights into students’ strengths and areas for improvement. It serves as a tool to help students understand their academic performance better and identify areas that require further development, enhancing their readiness for software engineering roles.