Exploring actions, interactions and challenges in software modelling tasks : an empirical investigation with students

Titelangaben

Chakraborty, Shalini ; Troya, Javier ; Burgueño, Lola ; Liebel, Grischa:
Exploring actions, interactions and challenges in software modelling tasks : an empirical investigation with students.
In: Empirical Software Engineering. Bd. 31 (2026) . - 97.
ISSN 1573-7616
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10664-026-10815-5

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Abstract

Background
Software modelling is a creative yet challenging task. Modellers often find themselves lost in the process, from understanding the modelling problem to solving it with proper modelling strategies and modelling tools. Students learning modelling often get overwhelmed with the notations and tools. To teach students systematic modelling, we must investigate students’ practical modelling knowledge and the challenges they face while modelling.
Aim
We aim to explore students’ modelling knowledge and modelling actions. Further, we want to investigate students’ challenges while solving a modelling task on specific modelling tools.
Method
We conducted an empirical study by observing 16 pairs of students from two universities and countries solving modelling tasks for one hour.
Results
We find distinct patterns of modelling of class and sequence diagrams based on individual modelling styles, the tools’ interface and modelling knowledge. We observed how modelling tools influence students’ modelling styles and how they can be used to foster students’ confidence and creativity. Based on these observations, we developed a set of guidelines aimed at enhancing modelling education and helping students acquire practical modelling skills.
Conclusions
The guidance for modelling in education needs to be structured and systematic. Our findings reveal that different modelling styles exist, which should be properly studied. It is essential to nurture the creative aspect of a modeller, particularly while they are still students. Therefore, selecting the right tool is important, and students should understand how a tool can influence their modelling style.