Undergraduate computer science projects in UK: what is the point?
Vassiliki Bouki · WestminsterResearch (University of Westminster) · 2007
The final year undergraduate project is a crucial component of a Computer Science (CS) degree in UK.The learning outcomes of the project include critical thinking, creativity, time management and communication skills.Although it is apparent that the project plays a major role in the curriculum of a CS degree, many students (and some supervisors) fail to appreciate its significance.In addition, the last three years we experience a downfall in the quality of projects in some UK Universities.The reason behind it might be related with common misunderstandings about the nature of a CS degree.These are the same misunderstandings that several researchers consider responsible for the drop down in CS student numbers.The aim of this paper is to present the expected learning outcomes of the project, to examine how it differs from the other modules and to discuss concepts such as research, supervision and communication skills in relation to CS projects.Bringing research as early possible into projects could be beneficial for UG students; 'distant supervision' is a practice that could be useful and practical for overloaded lecturers and working students; communication skills should be exercised during the project.