ERIC Number: EJ1140882
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2017-May
Pages: 8
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: EISSN-1545-679X
EISSN: N/A
Available Date: N/A
Agile Learning: Sprinting through the Semester
Lang, Guido
Information Systems Education Journal, v15 n3 p14-21 May 2017
This paper introduces agile learning, a novel pedagogical approach that applies the processes and principles of agile software development to the context of learning. Agile learning is characterized by short project cycles, called sprints, in which a usable deliverable is fully planned, designed, built, tested, reviewed, and launched. An undergraduate elective Computer Information Systems course on web development was redesigned to implement a semester-long agile learning experience. Results of a student survey conducted at the end of the semester reveal that agile learning combines learning and application of learning, while allowing students to fail more and fail faster. At the same time, agile learning takes longer than traditional project-based learning and makes it easier for students to fall behind. Nevertheless, students indicated a strong preference for agile learning over traditional project-based learning. Importantly, students' preference for and performance in agile learning was not influenced by their learning style. However, agile learning requires significant amount of planning, balancing the need to provide instructions with the need to provide explanations, as well as significant amount of one-on-one student support.
Descriptors: Teaching Methods, Computer Software, Student Projects, Undergraduate Students, Information Systems, Computer Science Education, Student Surveys, Student Attitudes, Internet, Development, Educational Technology, Technology Uses in Education, Cognitive Style, Measures (Individuals), Qualitative Research, Content Analysis
Information Systems and Computing Academic Professionals. Box 488, Wrightsville Beach, NC 28480. e-mail: publisher@isedj.org; Web site: http://isedj.org
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research; Tests/Questionnaires
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Connecticut
Identifiers - Assessments and Surveys: Learning Style Inventory
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A