The Educational Value of Mapping Studies of Software Engineering Literature

Kitchenham, Barbara; Brereton, Pearl; Budgen, David

Abstract

We identify three challenges related to the provenance of the material we use in teaching software engineering. We suggest that these challenges can be addressed by using evidence-based software engineering (EBSE) and its primary tool of systematic literature reviews (SLRs). This paper aims to assess the educational and scientific value of undergraduate and postgraduate students undertaking a specific form of SLR called a mapping study. Using a case study methodology, we asked three postgraduate students and three undergraduates and their supervisor to complete a questionnaire concerning the educational value of mapping studies and any problems they experienced. Students found undertaking a mapping study to be a valuable experience providing both reusable research skills and a good overview of a research topic. Postgraduates found it useful as a starting point for their studies. Undergraduates reported problems undertaking the study in the required timescales. Searching and classifying the literature was difficult.

Citation

Kitchenham, B., Brereton, P., & Budgen, D. (2010, December). The Educational Value of Mapping Studies of Software Engineering Literature. Presented at 32nd International Conference on Software Engineering (ICSE 2010) ACM Press, Cape Town, South Africa

• Presentation Conference Type: Conference Paper (published)
• Conference Name: 32nd International Conference on Software Engineering (ICSE 2010) ACM Press
• Publication Date: 2010
• Deposit Date: Sep 6, 2010
• Volume: 1
• Pages: 589-598
• Book Title: Proceedings of the 32nd ACM/IEEE International Conference on Software Engineering - ICSE '10
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1145/1806799.1806887
• Public URL: https://durham-repository.worktribe.com/output/1158755