IUSE: Scaffolded Projects For the Social Good - Framework Development and Early Impact Assessment
Abstract
This NSF IUSE-sponsored project, Scaffolded Projects for the Social Good (SPSG) addresses critical barriers that prevent instructors from integrating community-based service learning into computing curricula. Many educators recognize the pedagogical value of authentic, real-world projects with community partners, yet struggle with partner identification, project vetting, timeline misalignment, and multi-semester continuity challenges. SPSG provides a flexible, low-adoption threshold framework built on studio-based and agile development principles, enabling student teams to work on meaningful Computing for the Social Good projects across multiple semesters.
Since 2023, the collaboration between Central Connecticut State University and Xavier University has produced significant accomplishments. The team has developed and piloted the SPSG framework across multiple courses, created a comprehensive publicly-available toolkit including structure guides, instructor guides, project feasibility evaluation rubrics, and code management resources. The project has actively disseminated findings through publications and presentations at major computing education conferences including SIGCSE, ITiCSE, CompEd, and FIE, while building community through workshops and Birds of a Feather sessions.
Early survey analysis across multiple semesters reveals promising outcomes. Students report substantial improvements in technical skills, alongside enhanced communication and teamwork abilities. Notably, participants demonstrate increased awareness of computings potential for social impact, with the framework successfully integrating technical learning with social responsibility. However, findings also identify areas for refinement, including the need for clearer communication structures, improved time management strategies, and better approaches to mitigate student overwhelm through phased project delivery and mentorship. As survey data is analyzed, adjustments will be made to improve the SPSG framework and its associated tools, enhancing its value to instructors and students alike in engineering education programs.
