Using a project-based learning approach for teaching emerging technologies: An example of a practical course for introducing SAP Leonardo and SAP HANA

The purpose of this paper is to provide a best practice procedure model for conducting a capstone course consisting of eight phases and to share first experiences with it. The model is geared to teaching new and innovative industry-related topics by using a project-based learning approach including elements of experiential learning and role-play teaching. It also focuses on providing hands-on experience with newly released technology or software. Based on insights from literature, we planned and conducted a practical course for teaching topics of SAP Leonardo and SAP HANA by adapting our suggested procedure model. We further collected feedback from students. During designing the practical course, we found that the model is easy and fast to apply, flexible and adaptable to different circumstances due to its modularity. It can be used beyond teaching emerging technologies and topics as a template for practical courses as well. This paper shows lecturers how to involve industrial partners in teaching and instructs them in conducting a project-based course by means of a concrete example.