2018 EDSIGCON Proceedings - Abstract Presentation

Applying an Agile Collaborative Design Factory Methodology to Course Projects of STEM

James Lawler
Pace University

Abstract
Colleges of computer science and information systems are engaging students in collaborative design courses on entrepreneurial innovation projects. Design Factory methodology is engaging the students in developing interdisciplinary iterative processes for non-profit and profit organizations, in a co-creator culture of passionate self-directed teams. The author of the paper is evaluating, from focus groups, the potential of a collaborative Design Factory Methodology for Innovation Projects course, developed recently in STEM for undergraduate students. The field literature is indicating that students are learning the meaningfulness of Design Factory methodology, for producing product prototypes on projects and on potential project solutions. Literature is indicating that information systems students are learning more mindfulness skills, in partnering with organizational personnel on project solutions. They may be learning more of not only prototyping skills but of sharing and sensitivity skills, in partnering with other peer students on self-directed teams, including international virtual teams, on potential project solutions. Design Factory methodology may be an ideal project-based learning proposition for STEM and non-STEM students in learning a new investigatory organizational process, from which they will likely have pride in innovation solutions. The findings of this paper, from reflections of the students will benefit faculty considering integrating Design Factory methodology in the curriculum of information systems at their schools.

Recommended Citation: Lawler, J., (2018). Applying an Agile Collaborative Design Factory Methodology to Course Projects of STEM. Proceedings of the EDSIG Conference, (2018) n.4781, Norfolk, Virginia