Agile Methodologies in Education: The Common Ground of Personalized Learning and Project-Based Learning

Agile methodologies, such as Scrum, have been widely adopted in software development because they enhance project management and deliver high-quality products in dynamic environments. However, their application in higher education presents both unique challenges and opportunities. This paper reviews relevant literature to identify Scrum’s challenges, benefits, limitations, and potential adoption barriers in in-class activities. Additionally, the application of Scrum in educational settings, particularly focusing on project-based learning (PBL) in a Software Engineering course unit, is distilled. In line with this, to assess the adoption of Scrum in a PBL approach, a survey was conducted with students from diverse backgrounds. This survey aimed to evaluate their experience in collaborating with peers and instructors, teamwork dynamics, understanding of software engineering technologies and tools, and their overall perspective on the course. The study also examined the level of understanding and application of Scrum principles by students. It focused on the effectiveness of Scrum in enhancing student communication skills, the adequacy of technologies in supporting the software development methodology used, and the students’ comprehension of software engineering principles and artifacts. The findings revealed varied experiences among students, highlighting both successes and areas needing improvement. Some students reported enhanced communication and teamwork skills, attributing these improvements to the structured nature of Scrum. However, challenges such as the initial learning curve, varying levels of engagement, and the adequacy of supporting technologies were also noted. The study’s outcomes suggest that while Scrum can significantly enhance learning outcomes, careful consideration must be given to its implementation. The insights gained from this study may inform the design of future educational interventions, aiming to optimize the integration of Scrum and similar methodologies to enhance students’ learning experiences and outcomes in software engineering education.