Service-Learning methodology to develop Bachelor’s Thesis in Information and Computer Science Degrees

Abstract

Service-Learning (SL) is a powerful methodology to acquire competences and values in Higher Education. However, there is still no widespread use in Information and Computer Science (ICS) degrees where most of the subjects are focused on the development of theoretical and practical contents purely related to technical competences.  In this paper, we show the structure of a SL methodology to develop Bachelor’s Thesis: 1) definition of proposals considering all the competencies of the Bachelor’s Thesis subject and the entities needs; 2) development of applications using agile methodologies, and 3) assessment of the SL experience from students, entity and professor. We present an experience developed in 2020-2021 academic year with two entities devoted to disfavoured people. The results show both the high technical and professional quality of the projects and the high satisfaction of entities and students.  We hope that the development of applications with the collaboration of non-profit entities allows the acquisition of both specific and transversal competencies on ICS degrees at the same time enhancing the development of useful professional ones.