Learning at the elbows of experts: Technology roadmapping with Software Engineering students

Abstract

We describe a multidisciplinary course introducing Software Engineering, Computer Science and Business students to strategic business planning in IT organizations using technology roadmapping as the focus of instruction. The course has a strong practicum element, where multidisciplinary teams facilitate development of a technology roadmap in fast growth IT organizations guided by experienced mentors. It provides opportunities for a rich set of learnings, of the core content, technology roadmapping, but also: team skills in a multidisciplinary context; consultancy and communication skills; understanding other professionals vocabularies; and practical observation of hi-tech senior managers.