Building a software development environment to enrich learning and enhance employability

Abstract

There is an increasing trend towards employer engagement in Higher Education. It is recognised that the workplace represents a legitimate learning environment in the modern knowledge economy. Higher Education Innovation Funding is used to foster mutually beneficial links between universities and industry and commerce. This paper provides a reflective analysis of the utilisation of this funding to establish a software development team within a department of computer science and information systems to form links with the regional economy, and to effect synergy between students, staff and external clients. This forms the basis of a stimulating environment which provides real-world scenarios and brings current skills and knowledge into the Department. It provides contemporary case studies, offers valuable support to the regional economy, and enables students to acquire skills to equip them for employment. There is now scope for further curriculum enhancement and new multidisciplinary initiatives to support applied research.