Experiences of a software engineering course based on interactive learning

Learning to apply software engineering requires practical experience, and can not be taught through traditional theory-based lectures. Interactive learning is an approach that combines lectures and exercises into multiple iterations of theory, example, exercise, solution and reflection. It is based on active, computer based and experiential learning and on immediate feedback to improve the learning experience in large classes. It includes hands-on activities with the goal to increase students' motivation and engagement. This paper describes an interactive learning course design that includes multiple choice quizzes and interactive tutorials as in-class exercises and a team project in which students apply their knowledge in a different setting. Based on this course design, we present a case study with 300 students in 2016. An evaluation shows that students are more engaged and motivated, if they practically apply and exercise the previously learned theory in the classroom. By providing students with both, theoretical foundations and practical exercises, their learning experience improves.