The theory and practice of randori coding dojos

Abstract

The coding dojo is a technique for continuous learning and training. Randori is one implementation format. Even though experience and lessons learnt on how coding dojos could be better organized have been reported in agile literature, the theoretical bases behind it have never been investigated. In this paper we propose to use reflective practice as a sense-making device to underpin the investigation and improvement of coding dojo for effective learning. Based on the examination of two dojo sessions we argue that the insights from the reflective practice and related theories can open new and interesting inquiries on coding dojo, and eventually help to better understand the dynamics of coding dojo, and improve the dojo practice accordingly. © Springer International Publishing Switzerland 2014.