A wider view of programming education

Purpose and goal

The goals in the project description has to a large extend been fulfilled. In addition to the stated goals there have been observations on how relations/interaction between individuals and groups workes. Some experiences from the project can be directly applied to existing courses, especially courses that are given on an advanced level. The project has also resulted in contacts that potentially can be used in different courses. All in all, the expectations on the project has been fulfilled.

Expected results and effects

The project plan describes several expected outcomes. Today it is too early to say what practical effects the project will have on education and research at the department. Potential ideas include: Education: there is a need for advanced courses in Software Engineering. How can these additions/modifications be integrated into the current curricula? Research: one possible research questions is how documentation affects how new and experienced developers learn existing systems.

Planned approach and implementation

During the three months that the project ran the project leader worked in one development team, getting to know the members and the sub-system developed. This has given insights that normally doesn´t surface in, for example, interviews. The comparative long time have resulted in experiences that can not be expected to be seen during shorter periods, for example changes in requirements during a spring, or staffing changes. Because of this project design has considered to be successful.