Integrating Generative AI in Software Engineering Education: Practical Strategies

The transformative influence of generative artificial intelligence (AI), notably large language models (LLMs), has significantly reshaped the software engineering (SE) landscape, impacting various aspects of software development within industry and academia. The imperative to integrate generative AI into educational programs arises from the necessity to furnish graduates with contemporary methodologies that enhance software quality and streamline development processes. Nevertheless, a research gap exists concerning the systematic integration of established SE education guidelines with specific course contexts to strengthen SE education through incorporating generative AI. In response to this gap, our study presents a vision for integrating generative AI into SE education, with a particular emphasis on practical integration strategies aimed at endowing students with essential competencies tailored for contemporary software development. Aligning our vision with the knowledge domains within SE education, we delineate its application across specific areas such as code generation, auto test case completion, and others. The overall objective of these proposed initiatives is to furnish students in SE with an updated and immersive learning experience, thereby addressing the evolving demands of the field.