Web ACE – A Study in Reciprocal Informing

A Computer Science degree includes a compulsory final year Project subject. The Project involves the design and implementation of a real-life computer application for a client, and gives students an opportunity to work in a setting emulating a real-life information technology environment. Students undertake the Project subject together with its co-requisite subject in English Language and Communication. The English subject focuses on consolidating written and oral communication skills such as compilation of technical reports, and delivery of oral presentations – skills directly relevant to the Project. This paper reports on a unique Project experience where a group of students developed a Web based system for ‘special’ clients – their English lecturers. The paper discusses the rationale for the project, its details and benefits. It highlights the relationship between the Project students and the English lecturers and the dual roles of informers and clients, that each of the parties played in the process.