Wednesday 09 April 2025
Researchers have developed a new tool that could revolutionize the way we learn about software engineering. The system, known as C-LEIA, uses artificial intelligence to simulate a customer or client, allowing students to practice requirements elicitation interviews in a more realistic and engaging way.
Requirements elicitation is a crucial step in software development, where developers must gather information from customers or clients to understand their needs and create a product that meets those needs. However, it can be challenging for students to learn this skill, as it requires them to effectively communicate with people who may not have a technical background.
C-LEIA uses natural language processing (NLP) and machine learning algorithms to generate responses to student questions, simulating the behavior of a real customer or client. The system is designed to be flexible and adaptable, allowing students to ask follow-up questions and explore different topics in depth.
In a recent study, researchers tested C-LEIA with a group of students who were learning about software engineering. The results showed that students who used C-LEIA performed better on requirements elicitation tasks than those who used traditional methods, such as reading transcripts of customer interviews.
One of the key advantages of C-LEIA is its ability to simulate the complexity and variability of real-world interactions. Students can ask questions and receive responses that are tailored to their specific needs and interests, allowing them to develop a more nuanced understanding of software engineering.
C-LEIA also has the potential to improve diversity and inclusion in the field of software engineering. By providing students with a simulated customer or client that is representative of diverse backgrounds and experiences, C-LEIA can help students develop a broader perspective on the needs and concerns of different groups.
The researchers are currently working on improving C-LEIA’s ability to simulate nonverbal cues, such as tone of voice and body language. They hope to release the system publicly in the near future, making it available for use by educators and students around the world.
Overall, C-LEIA has the potential to revolutionize the way we learn about software engineering, providing a more engaging and effective way to develop essential skills. By simulating real-world interactions and providing students with a diverse range of experiences, C-LEIA can help students become better prepared for the challenges of the modern workforce.
Cite this article: “Revolutionizing Requirements Engineering: How AI-Powered Interviews Enhance Student Learning”, The Science Archive, 2025.
Software Engineering, Artificial Intelligence, Requirements Elicitation, Customer Interviews, Natural Language Processing, Machine Learning, Software Development, Education, Diversity And Inclusion, Simulation
