Challenges of real-world projects in team-based courses
Joo Tan, John P. Phillips · Journal of computing sciences in colleges · 2003
Instructors in many computer science courses tend to focus on concepts and theory instead of emphasizing the practicality of concepts to solving problems. Finding solutions to problems is a useful way for students to gain hands-on experience in college. Without prior exposure to the expectations of industrial demands, students have a hard time adjusting to jobs in the software industry after graduation. A two-course sequence in System Analysis and Design provides students with the opportunity to experience real world situations through team-based projects. Students assume various roles as professionals do in the software industry and are expected to contribute to their team and project. Many challenges are encountered with teaching such practical courses. This paper reports on the organization and management of these courses as well as issues and problems encountered by both the students and instructor.