Educating Software Development Professionals: Does Instruction Affect Creativity?

Authors

Judy L. Wynekoop, University of Texas at San Antonio
Diane B. Walz, University of Texas at San Antonio

Abstract

Since creativity is important in software development, the effect of education in formal software development methods on individual creativity was studied. Students choosing to major in information systems and computer science in college were found to be more creative than the general population at the start of their programs. In fact, individuals choosing computer science as a major were exceptionally creative. However, by their senior year, computer science majors were no more creative than information systems majors. These findings support conclusions that computer science curricula should include more problem-solving and design activities. Implications for computer science and information systems curricula are discussed.

Recommended Citation

Wynekoop, Judy L. and Walz, Diane B. (1996) "Educating Software Development Professionals: Does Instruction Affect Creativity?," Journal of Information Systems Education: Vol. 8 : Iss. 1 , 11-15.
Available at: https://aisel.aisnet.org/jise/vol8/iss1/3