Engaging Students, Faculty, and External Professionals with a Data-Centered Group Capstone Project

This paper presents the rationale and structure for a data-centered capstone project that provides an engaging and effective learning experience for students. Groups of students both select topics and self-direct research. Students are responsible for collecting, analyzing, and presenting data in both written and verbal forms. The project cultivates the ability to work as a team, communicate effectively, and explore and interpret data. We describe a method for involving external stakeholders including alumni, Executive Advisory Board members, or community business professionals. Extensive flexibility of the project allows variability in the conceptual focus, types of deliverables, and the mode of delivery.