Abstract:

This paper reports on a project for information technology (IT) honours students. They had to compile case studies in a corporate environment on the topic of software development methodologies (SDM). There is a need to align academic content and industry experiences when educating IT students. These students completed an assignment for their information systems engineering module in which they had to approach companies to investigate aspects of the software development methodologies that are being used in the corporate sector. The purpose of this research is to reflect on the students’ experiences and the challenges they faced while engaging in the corporate environment.

The methodology used was a reflective case study where students’ reflection notes were used to gather insight into the students’ experiences whilst they were conducting the case study and obtaining details for their assignments.

Results indicate the students’ biggest challenges and most valuable learning experiences. It is necessary to reflect on classroom and surrounding activities concerning teaching and learning in order to present the best possible value to students and to enhance work readiness. It is also seen that local cases provide a means to decolonize the curriculum where, in the current times, curriculum transformation is called for.

Keywords:

Case study, IT Students, Experiences, Challenges, Software development methodologies.