Coil internationalization experiences developing software projects with an agile approach, A+S and ABP

This article describes the learning environment, the training process and good practices, by incorporating COIL (Collaborative OnLine International Learning) activities in university courses related to software engineering that focus on project-based learning, service learning (A+S ) and the use of agile frameworks, tools and professional development environments for the development of software projects. The experience considers courses from the first semesters in engineering careers, agile development teams made up of students from universities in two Latin American countries with the purpose of generating a software product that contributes to solving the needs of companies, entrepreneurs or institutions, always considering alignment with sustainable development objectives. The lessons learned from previous COIL experiences allow us to replicate COIL good practices in software development and focus work under the concept of an agile software factory. Students are always guided by teachers who serve as their mentors, facilitating the overcoming of obstacles given by the difference in schedules, culture, learning from each other, developing various “soft skills” such as: intercultural, critical thinking, collaboration, resilience , communication, creativity, conflict resolution, negotiation and conflict resolution. This experience achieves significant learning that allows students to leave their comfort zone and prepare them for professional life. Finally, it should be mentioned that it contributes to the achievement of the internationalization of the curriculum and accreditation by international bodies such as ABET (Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology).