Definition of Project-Based Learning Models in the Computer Engineering Degree

Abstract

[EN] The current characteristics, concerns, preferences, and interests of students differ greatly from the previous students¿ generations. Nowadays, students are increasingly demanding active methodologies that facilitate their learning process. To meet the actual students¿ requirements, academic research is focused on the definition of educational mechanisms that promote greater students¿ participation. Among these mechanisms, the project-based learning (PBL) is a model that organizes learning around projects. Projects are student-driven and provide more tangible results what has been considered as a positive aspect to deepen and retain knowledge. The main objective of this paper is to describe all the activities performed to plan, define, design and project an integrated PBL model for students in the last years (3rd and 4th year students) of the Computer Engineering Degree. The PBL model involves the following subjects: (i) Software Engineering; (ii) Project Management; (ii) Business Requirements Analysis and (iv) Business Models and Organisation Functional Areas. The PBL model has twofold perspectives, the first one is more project and software-directed while the second one is more businessoriented. This model seeks to give continuity to the teaching-learning process so that students can appreciate greater coherence, links, and succession of the contents of different subjects. Moreover, the definition of the PBL model will also support the enhancement of the horizontal and vertical transversal coordination among different subjects.