Student-Run Software Houses

Bruce Scharlau Computing Science University of Aberdeen

b.scharlau@abdn.ac.uk

@scharlau

Students need to work with live clients

Degrees highlight islands of study

The group project is a starting point for experience

Students could have more experience

This is a qualitative study

There are several pathways

All projects started to improve student learning experience

Model one focuses on the degree

There is a core live client module for all students

(Durham, Lancaster, Sheffield Hallam and Aston)

Model two starts small

Someone offers services to community supplied by students across discipline or university

(Aberdeen, Greenwich, Plymouth and Chester)

Model three is an umbrella

A commercial and entrepreneurial unit organises activities (Edge Hill, Hull, and Napier)

Model four is a commercial unit

A manager liaises with live clients and organises students as staff, or as freelance developers

(London Met, Southampton Solent, Kent and Sheffield)

There were a number of surprises

We listened to stories at a workshop

We studied issues at a workshop

Strategic

Play with

Lego

Serious

Play

World

Café

Where

to start?

We explored possible pathways

There are more people to talk to

Further insights will be realised

Get in touch with your story

Bruce Scharlau b.scharlau@abdn.ac.uk @scharlau

Thanks to the HEA for for funding

There are many paths to get started, so what are you waiting for?