Abstract: The role of IS is changing from a task perspective to a role perspective focused on aligning IS with business needs and goals. In this paper we present a problem solving perspective for teaching systems development methodologies as a means of fostering this shift in perspective in IS students. Polya's formal problem solving process is synthesized with the traditional systems development life cycle. This synthesis makes explicit the tacit knowledge embedded in system development methodologies and enables the transfer of domain knowledge to the broader organizational context and the alignment of IS with business needs and goals.

Keywords: Polya, Problem solving, System development methodologies

Download this article: JISE - Volume 11 Number 1-2, Page 67.pdf

Recommended Citation: Pardue, J. H., Doran, M. V., & Longenecker, H. E. (2000). Using Polya to Teach System Development Methodologies: Fostering a Role Perspective in IS Students. Journal of Information Systems Education, 11(1-2), 67-72.