EXPERIENCIA DE APLICACIÓN DE SOFTWARE LIBRE A LA DOCENCIA PRÁCTICA DE GESTIÓN DE PROYECTOS

Abstract

Engineering education is becoming increasingly complex and requires a comprehensive approach to teaching theory, practice and non-technical skills. The curricula include not only knowledge-based training, but also the acquisition of skills to apply knowledge to practical situations and solve problems using initiative, autonomy and creativity. Consequently, the practical classes include activities about planning/control and resource allocation. In this way, the most commonly used software for practical classes is MS-Project. However, the students find that MS-Project is not an easy to use tool, and a high knowledge of the use of the software package is required. In short, it is a tool aimed at the professional level. To resolve this issue, we have developed a new educational software tool called PpcProject. This tool has been tested against MS-Project for the realization of a practical excercise. Finally, the students have been surveyed about on using both tools. Evaluations have shown that PpcProject is more useful for educational purposes than MS-Project, in terms of usability and of students performance.