A critical systems perspective on project-based learning: Guidelines for using industry data for BI student projects

Abstract

Higher education institutions provide the IT industry with professionals who are good problem solvers and self-directed life-long learners with a firm theoretical knowledge base. To achieve this, project-based learning is included in the curriculum. Data and requirements are supplied by an industry partner to 4th-year students in business intelligence. The aim of the collaboration is to develop the students to the best of their ability, while also generating benefits to the faculty members and the industry partner. The goal of this paper is to develop guidelines for using industry data for business intelligence students. The guidelines shall support the interests of the students in terms of real-world experience, faculty members in terms academic results, and industry partners in terms of information protection.