Being Agile in the Software Engineering Classroom: Using Agile Approaches Instead of Plan-driven Approaches

Abstract

We had an outdated, unsuitable pair of courses covering software engineering over an academic year, which were rewritten last summer. Out went the plan-driven project approach of GANNT charts, and a belief that 'better estimates' would save the day. In came a lightweight focus on a mix of extreme programming and scrum to incrementally, and iteratively build products. The classroom changed too. Out went lecture slides in the classroom, plus self-directed pick and choose practical sessions. In came video-led lectures based on the pandemic experience, experiential learning, and more suitable practical sessions to guide students in what they need know to build their product prototypes. The initial results suggest we are headed in the right direction. It still needs more work, but shows students are developing products more confidently as teams of students.