Tutorial - Scaffolded Projects for the Social Good: Integrating Sustainable Service-Learning in Software Engineering
Abstract
Scaffolded Projects for the Social Good (SPSG) equips computing educators with a low-barrier framework for embedding sustainable, community-partnered software projects into existing software-engineering and capstone courses. In this three-hour, hands-on tutorial participants will step through the full SPSG lifecycle using a realistic nonprofit case study. Interactive segments include rapid feasibility vetting with a partner conversation guide; creation of a Team Agreement to set expectations; simulated client interviews that seed a well-scoped product backlog; application of detailed sprint-evaluation rubrics that deliver formative feedback; and knowledge-transfer techniques that enable seamless hand-off between semesters. Small-group work and whole-room debriefs provide immediate practice and peer feedback. The session culminates in an implementation clinic where facilitators help participants sketch a first-semester adoption plan aligned with local constraints and program learning outcomes.
Attendees will leave with an editable toolkit including rubrics, deliverable templates, project-screening checklists, and other adoption aids, ready for use next term. After completing the tutorial, participants will be able to (1) identify feasible, socially impactful projects and build productive relationships with community partners; (2) scaffold student deliverables with meaningful, iterative feedback; and (3) sustain multi-semester projects without adding new courses or staff.
The tutorial targets instructors of upper-division software-engineering, capstone, or project-based courses who seek to broaden students’ technical competence, professional identity, and civic responsibility through authentic computing-for-social-good experiences. A Wi-Fi-enabled laptop is the only equipment required; all materials will be provided digitally.
