Teaching Distributed Software Development with the Project Method

Abstract

Lab courses are an integral part of higher education in engineering sciences. In this paper, we report about a blended learning approach for such courses in computer science education. We show how the project method for co-located learning can be translated into a blended CSCL setting for a lab course on distributed software development, and how the resulting learning scenario can be supported with the collaborative virtual learning environment CURE. Experiences from the application of the educational approach in two courses indicate benefits but also highlight the need for further technical support.