Introduction

Abstract

The origins or particular focus of degree courses in information systems vary, but they almost all have one common characteristic: a requirement that students undertake at least one substantial individual project or item of course work. The typical requirement for an undergraduate degree is that one quarter or one fifth of the final year is devoted to undertaking such a project. This is usually in addition to a number of other items of project work that form a part of taught courses. For students on taught Masters degrees, requirements vary considerably, but a project or dissertation that is equal to at least one quarter of the total period of study and marks awarded is normal in the United Kingdom. Thus project work represents a substantial component of such courses and, most importantly, provides a vital opportunity for students to display their understanding, energy and creativity, free from the straitjacket of unseen written examinations. Project work also provides an opportunity for students to break out of the academic environment, and to practise and refine their skills and understanding in relationship to the wider world. Indeed, project work provides an important opportunity for students to measure the relevance and acuity of what they have been taught against the expectations, constraints and concerns of the ‘real’ world.