Use of Search Tools in Software Development: A Study of Microservice-Based Team Projects

Yi Meng Lau, Christian Michael Koh, Lingxiao Jiang

2025

Abstract

Universities are increasingly integrating real-world projects into software engineering curricula to prepare students for careers involving complex concepts like Microservices Architecture (MSA). Students frequently struggle with such concepts within limited class time and turn to various search tools and online resources for additional help. Search tools are also widely used in the software development industry. While search engines, like Google and Yahoo!, can provide quick solutions, they pose the risk of information overload. Large Language Models (LLMs) such as ChatGPT, offer the advantage of delivering more precise answers. Studies have shown that LLMs can comprehend codes, assist in system architectural design, and suggest solutions, potentially enhancing the learning experience for students. This study aims to determine how students make use of search tools for their team projects in a software development course that teaches MSA. It will also explore if search tools can enhance learning in team projects by facilitating collaborative, peer, and self-directed learning, and propose methods to address any limitations.

Paper Citation

in Harvard Style

Lau Y., Koh C. and Jiang L. (2025). Use of Search Tools in Software Development: A Study of Microservice-Based Team Projects. In Proceedings of the 17th International Conference on Computer Supported Education - Volume 1: CSEDU; ISBN 978-989-758-746-7, SciTePress, pages 232-242. DOI: 10.5220/0013206000003932

in Bibtex Style

@conference{csedu25,
author={Yi Lau and Christian Koh and Lingxiao Jiang},
title={Use of Search Tools in Software Development: A Study of Microservice-Based Team Projects},
booktitle={Proceedings of the 17th International Conference on Computer Supported Education - Volume 1: CSEDU},
year={2025},
pages={232-242},
publisher={SciTePress},
organization={INSTICC},
doi={10.5220/0013206000003932},
isbn={978-989-758-746-7},
}

in EndNote Style

TY - CONF

JO - Proceedings of the 17th International Conference on Computer Supported Education - Volume 1: CSEDU
TI - Use of Search Tools in Software Development: A Study of Microservice-Based Team Projects
SN - 978-989-758-746-7
AU - Lau Y.
AU - Koh C.
AU - Jiang L.
PY - 2025
SP - 232
EP - 242
DO - 10.5220/0013206000003932
PB - SciTePress