Managing Technical People: Creatively Teaching the Skills of Human Interaction in Today's Diverse Classrooms

Abstract

Software engineering curricula typically focus on process and technology yet give little or no attention to teaching the ldquosoft skillsrdquo of managing technical people. While teaching the art of managing people is indeed difficult, it is paramount in todaypsilas global working and learning environments. A new elective, using a highly interactive approach, was developed at Carnegie Mellon University to address specific challenges in managing technical people. Modular class design incorporated various activities including role-plays, case studies, video analysis and scenario-based decision-making to enhance student learning.