How to enhance collaborative student-industry projects with theoretical perspectives

Abstract

Collaborative student–industry projects are a key component of the three-year Computer Engineering programme. The question we wanted to explore by redesigning a well-functioning project course was: Can the understanding and insights gained through a practically orientated trial and error process be enhanced by a more theoretical approach while retaining a high level of student engagement?

A number of articles and books focusing on three key aspects —process, teamwork and quality— were introduced into the course to help achieve these goals. Our endeavours were to integrate the theoretical aspects tightly with the more practical project tasks. The redesigned course resulted in a high level of student activity, not only during project activities, but also in class discussions and exercises. Student evaluation pointed to a high number of satisfied students.