Teaching Theorizing in Software Engineering Research

TL;DR

This paper introduces 12 intermediate products of theorizing to enhance software engineering research and education, providing a framework for recognizing and applying these products in SE theorizing and teaching.

Contribution

It presents a novel set of intermediate theorizing products adapted from other fields, tailored for SE research and education, with practical application and teaching guidance.

Findings

Identifies 12 intermediate products of theorizing relevant to SE.

Demonstrates application of these products in software architecture research.

Provides a 12-week course structure for teaching theorizing in SE.

Abstract

This chapter seeks to support software engineering (SE) researchers and educators in teaching the importance of theory as well as the theorizing process. Drawing on insights from other fields, the chapter presents 12 intermediate products of theorizing and what they mean in an SE context. These intermediate products serve different roles: some are theory products to frame research studies, some are theory generators, and others are components of theory. Whereas the SE domain doesn't have many theories of its own, these intermediate products of theorizing can be found widely. The chapter aims to help readers to recognize these intermediate products, their role, and how they can help in the theorizing process within SE research. To illustrate their utility, the chapter then applies the set of intermediate theorizing products to the software architecture research field. The chapter ends with a suggested structure for a 12-week course on theorizing in SE which can be readily adapted by educators.