Coil internationalization experiences in developing software projects with an agile, A+S AND ABP approach

Abstract

This article describes the learning environment, the learning process and good practices, when incorporating COIL (Collaborative OnLine International Learning) activities in university courses related to software engineering that focus on project-based learning, learning service (A+S) and the use of agile frameworks, tools and professional development environments for the development of software projects. The experience considers courses from the first semesters in engineering careers, agile development teams made up of students from universities of two Latin American countries with the purpose of generating a software product that contributes to solving the needs of companies, entrepreneurs or institutions, always considering the alignment with the objectives of sustainable development. The lessons learned from previous COIL experiences allows replicating COIL good practices, software development and focusing the work under the concept of agile software factory. Students are always guided by teachers who act as their mentors, facilitating the overcoming of obstacles given by the difference in schedules, culture, learning from each other, developing various “soft skills” such as: intercultural soft skills, critical thinking, collaboration, resilience, communication, creativity, conflict solution, negotiation and conflict resolution. This experience achieves significant learning that allows students to step out of their comfort zone and prepares them for professional life. Finally, it should be mentioned that it contributes to the achievement of internationalization of the curriculum and accreditation by international organizations such as ABET (Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology).