Scenario-based learning in a MOOC specialization capstone on software product management

A Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) is a popular way for universities to deliver quality course content to a global audience. Furthermore, a MOOC specialization offers a series of related such courses with a capstone component. Typical software engineering capstone projects in campus courses involve teamwork and creating software. Within such a context, students experience the software development process and human dynamics. However, MOOC capstones need to work for individual learners, and scale to handle thousands of potential learners. Consequently, this paper outlines our approach in using scenario-based learning to simulate an environment of interacting with others for a learner playing the role of a software product manager.