Self-organized Learning in Software Factory: Experiences and Lessons Learned

Self-organization is one of the key agile principles. How it can be applied in an educational context is not explored extensively. In this paper we draw on relevant educational literature as the theoretical basis to investigate the self-organized learning that happens in Software Factory, an experimental, shared educational platform between several universities. Based on a comparative case study of two Software Factories we identified a set of themes that can potentially explain self-organization from the learning viewpoint. These themes include self-decided learning goals and personalized learning outcomes, peer teaching through active collaboration, diversity is the key and the personal attitude towards the learning matters. We also reported how students perceive the necessary infrastructure and the role of traditional lecturing and teachers in the Software Factory context. The study contributes to a better offering of learning experience in software engineering education by making most out of the self-organized learning approach.