Ontological Exploration of Accounting: How Master Students Interpret Basic Accounting Concepts

Wulan Setyaningsih; Salsabila  Putri Widyadana

doi:10.69725/raida.v1i2.164

Authors

Wulan Setyaningsih a. Department of Accounting, Faculty of Economics and Business, Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta, Surakarta, Indonesia
Salsabila Putri Widyadana b. Department of Accounting, Faculty of Economics and Business, Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta, Surakarta, Indonesia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.69725/raida.v1i2.164

Keywords:

Ontological Understanding, Accounting Education, Master’s Students, Professional Experience, Accounting Philosophy

Abstract

Introduction: This study examines how educational background, work experience, and academic discourse shape master's students' ontological understanding of accounting concepts at a prominent Indonesian university.

Methods: A quantitative approach was used. Data were collected from 247 master's students through an online survey. The survey collected information on educational background, work experience, and academic involvement. Data analysis included various statistical techniques, including regression, to assess relationships between these factors and students' ontological understanding.

Results: We show that those who have formally studied accounting and have had work experience in accounting have a deeper ontological understanding of accounting. In addition, one of the best ways for students to further develop their ability to critically interpret accounting philosophy is by frequently attending academic seminars and discussions about accounting pagination. Finally, the research found subtle differences in the way accounting concepts were understood depending on whether a student had public sector or private sector experience.

Novelty: This study presents a new approach to how students articulate accounting knowledge conceptually. It incorporates ontological verification into accounting education. Previous work has focused on analyzing technical aspects, but this research considers methods to help students connect their work, the philosophy behind it, and the underlying rationale, allowing students to make further connections and bridge the gap from theory to practice.

Research Implications: This study highlights the importance of incorporating a more holistic view of accounting into accounting curricula. This is done by balancing theory, practice, and philosophy of accounting. It emphasizes the need for critical thinking and conceptual analysis at the undergraduate level and urges accounting programs to provide more opportunities for students to engage accounting philosophy as a way to develop interpretive skills and broaden their understanding.

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Author Biographies

Wulan Setyaningsih, a. Department of Accounting, Faculty of Economics and Business, Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta, Surakarta, Indonesia

Wulan Setyaningsih., S.Ak., M.Ak

Department of Accounting, Faculty of Economics and Business, Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta, Surakarta, Indonesia
Salsabila Putri Widyadana, b. Department of Accounting, Faculty of Economics and Business, Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta, Surakarta, Indonesia

Salsabila Putri Widyadana., S.Ak., M.Ak
Department of Accounting, Faculty of Economics and Business, Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta, Surakarta, Indonesia

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