A Proficiency Model for Design Science Research Education

Authors

Alan R. Hevner, University of South FloridaFollow
Jan vom Brocke, University of MünsterFollow

Abstract

Design science research (DSR) produces knowledge via the design and evaluation of innovative solutions to real-world problems. DSR provides an improved understanding of how and why the solutions work. While DSR is being widely embraced in many research disciplines, its educational pedagogy so far remains immature with little guidance on how best to inform and train various audiences on relevant and rigorous DSR skillsets. Grounded on the authors’ wide experience in designing and delivering DSR courses over the past decades, we develop a “DSR Proficiency Model” to highlight key skills required to succeed in planning, applying, and communicating DSR. We recognize the different educational environments and student backgrounds that DSR courses must accommodate and provide actionable guidance for mapping the proficiency model to academic, training, and executive audiences. Informative examples demonstrate how we have structured DSR curricula for different academic and executive education programs.

Recommended Citation

Hevner, Alan R. and vom Brocke, Jan (2023) "A Proficiency Model for Design Science Research Education," Journal of Information Systems Education: Vol. 34 : Iss. 3 , 264-278.
Available at: https://aisel.aisnet.org/jise/vol34/iss3/2