Software Design Process (5cr)

Qualifications

To participate in the study unit, you must have completed the first-year studies in information technology or have equivalent knowledge.

Learning outcomes

The student is able to
- structure and describe the functional and non-functional requirements of the software
- specify and prioritize requirements based on project goals and resources
- describe the functionality and technical solutions of the software
- apply software production methods and tools
- design the software's technical architecture and components
- communicate professionally with customers in the different phases of the requirements definition work

Teaching methods

The course is implemented as blended learning, combining remote lectures, independent study, and group work.

Time and location

Please see course calendar for details.

Learning materials and recommended literature

Remote lectures form a central part of the course, and additional learning materials and instructions are available on Canvas. Lectures are recorded.

Alternative completion methods of implementation

In accordance with Laurea’s degree regulations, all students have the right to demonstrate their prior learning. The initiative for recognition and accreditation of prior learning is made by the student. The same assessment criteria and grading scale as in the course are applied. For more information, please see the student intranet.

Important dates

Groups are formed in the first session, and the course starts right away. If you can’t attend due to work or another valid reason, contact the instructor beforehand. Check the first meeting time in the calendar.

Student workload

Work is done both independently and in groups of about 4–5 people. The course is worth 5 credits, corresponding to approximately 133.5 hours of total work (5 × 26.7 h). Attendance at lectures is highly recommended, though only the first session is mandatory. The methods and techniques introduced in the lectures are applied in exercises and group work, completed both individually and collaboratively outside class sessions.

Content and scheduling

Software Design Process & Agile Principles – review of agile methods and software design process
Concept Development & System Context – ideating software concepts, identifying user needs, defining the system context
Requirements Engineering – specification and prioritization of agile requirements (user stories, acceptance criteria)
System Modelling & Architecture – data flows, APIs, system architecture, and database schema
Agile Implementation Planning – iterative workflow management and alignment with DevOps practices
Reflection & Deliverables – documentation and presentation of design outcomes

Evaluation scale

H-5

Evaluation methods and criteria

Students receive a grade on a scale of 1–5 for the course. The final grade is primarily based on a group software design project. The grade for the group project is determined by the teacher’s evaluation of the outcome and a peer assessment of each student’s contribution and quality of participation. Small individual tasks, such as a multiple-choice test, complement the overall assessment.

The course is assessed according to Level II criteria of the competence assessment framework for bachelor’s degree students at Laurea University of Applied Sciences. All members of the Laurea community are expected to follow good scientific practices, including proper referencing of sources. Familiarize yourself with these practices and ask for guidance if needed.