Project-Based Learning in Student Teams in Computer Science Education

Designing information systems according to user requirements is crucial for software developers. In computer science education, acquiring necessary social skills to elicit and define those requirements is underdeveloped. We introduce a studentcentered, project-based learning approach with a student team project, which tries to support these learning processes. Based on existing examples for project-based learning in other disciplines, the didactical concept and the integration into the curriculum are explained. Using two exemplary student team projects, the core learning processes are described. This approach allows students to explore methods for project management as well as requirements analysis and participatory design with real end-users. The results of the project according to student evaluation are presented and conclusions about the value added of student team projects for computer science education are drawn.