Towards connecting discrete mathematics and software engineering

Abstract

To enhance training in software development, we argue that students of software engineering should be exposed to software development activities early in the curriculum. This entails meeting the challenge of engaging students in software development before they take the software engineering course. In this paper, we propose a method to connect courses in the software engineering curriculum by setting comprehensive development projects to students in prerequisite courses for software development. Using the Discrete Mathematics (DM) course as an example, we describe the implementation of the proposed method and teaching practices using several practical and comprehensive projects derived from topics in discrete mathematics. Detailed descriptions of the sample projects, their application, and training results are given. Results and lessons learned from applying these practices show that it is a promising way to connect courses in the software engineering curriculum.