Using a Class-Wide, Semester-Long Project to Teach Software Engineering Principles

Abstract

A senior-level, project-based Software Engineering
course taught at the University of Central Arkansas serves as
the capstone course for the Computer Science Program and
introduces students to the theory, tools, and techniques used to
build large-scale software systems in a project-driven setting.
Foundational to the course is the use of a class-wide, semesterlong
course project to emphasize the theoretical aspects of the
software process and the system used for scoring student
performance on the project. One project is selected for the
entire class with students divided into teams of four to six
students to support different functional requirement areas. A
milestone-driven approach is used following a modified
version of the Unified Process for project development.
Student scores on the project are divided into a group score,
assignable via a rubric-like grade sheet, and an individual
score which is determined by the individual’s effort as
assigned using the task-management tool, Issue-Tracker.
Experiences gained and lessons learned in teaching the course
are provided as a guide for those wishing to follow a similar
approach to teaching Software Engineering in the future.