Understanding Design Science Research through Project-based Learning: a Mobile App for e-Government
Abstract: Design science research (DSR) used for artifact creation is paired with a project-based learning (PBL) activity with the aim of improving information technology students’ understanding of development processes. A community project in the form of a mobile application to improve government service delivery is central to the PBL approach. Through this approach students improve their 21st century competencies in the form of research, design, development, and team work. This paper reports on how design science was used to map the phases of development of a project-based learning activity pertaining to mobile development for e-Government. Literature reviews on the central concepts are provided, as well as background information pertaining to a local community project. It is suggested that PBL can be used to improve understanding of DSR, especially when paired with a realistic project topic.