A Mapping Study About Training in Industry Context in Software Engineering

TL;DR

This systematic mapping study reviews research on corporate training in software engineering industry, highlighting predominant focus areas, gaps in methodology, and suggesting future research directions for more effective training programs.

Contribution

It provides a structured overview of current research on industry training in software engineering using Salas' framework, identifying gaps and proposing future research directions.

Findings

Most studies focus on Training Methods and Strategies.

Significant gaps in Job/Task Analysis and Simulation-based Training.

Many studies are experience reports with limited methodological rigor.

Abstract

Context: Corporate training plays a strategic role in the continuous development of professionals in the software engineering industry. However, there is a lack of systematized understanding of how training initiatives are designed, implemented, and evaluated within this domain. Objective: This study aims to map the current state of research on corporate training in software engineering in industry settings, using Eduardo Salas' training framework as an analytical lens. Method: A systematic mapping study was conducted involving the selection and analysis of 26 primary studies published in the field. Each study was categorized according to Salas' four key areas: Training Needs Analysis, Antecedent Training Conditions, Training Methods and Instructional Strategies, and Post-Training Conditions. Results: The findings show a predominance of studies focusing on Training Methods and Instructional Strategies. Significant gaps were identified in other areas, particularly regarding Job/Task Analysis and Simulation-based Training and Games. Most studies were experience reports, lacking methodological rigor and longitudinal assessment. Conclusions: The study offers a structured overview of how corporate training is approached in software engineering, revealing underexplored areas and proposing directions for future research. It contributes to both academic and practical communities by highlighting challenges, methodological trends, and opportunities for designing more effective training programs in industry.