Using project-based approach to teach design patterns: An Experience Report

Abstract

In a majority of Indian Engineering colleges, Software Engineering tends to be considered as a theoretical course. More specifically, software design is taught using traditional lecture based teaching methods with minimal hands-on experience on working with team based projects. As part of this paper, we share our experiences in teaching code smells and design patterns using project-based learning approach to students in a Software Engineering course. We tracked students’ ability to detect code smells and codify design patterns through code evaluation. A confidence survey conducted at the end of the course had a positive feedback. We believe the approach can be repeated across engineering colleges in India to teach Software Engineering design.