Increasing retention in first-year systems analysis through student collaboration using real world examples

Authors

Mark Freeman, University of WollongongFollow
Holly Tootell, University of WollongongFollow
Madeleine R H Roberts, University of WollongongFollow

RIS ID

98882

Publication Details

Freeman, M., Tootell, H. I. & Roberts, M. (2014). Increasing retention in first-year systems analysis through student collaboration using real world examples. Information Systems Development: Transforming Organisations and Society through Information Systems: Proceedings of the 23rd International Conference on Information Systems Development (ISD2014) (pp. 103-111). Croatia: University of Zagreb.

Abstract

It is important in teaching Systems Analysis to maintain currency with industry trends, and for teachers of these subjects to maintain close relationships with students' potential employers. This study presents a qualitative analysis of text responses from IS/IT students to open-ended questions concerning the introduction of a scaffolded small group problem based learning (PBL) task and the introduction of guest lectures. The results indicate that both of these enhancements to the subject have improved the learning experiences of students. These methods can be applied in other ISD subjects; and it is envisaged that enhanced student experiences will also be obtained through such applications.