Mathematical Reengineering of IT Systems in System Programming Education: The Model for Assessing the Engineering Maturity of a Student Project
https://doi.org/10.21822/2073-6185-2026-53-1-73-85
Abstract
Objective. The aim of the study is to theoretically substantiate, develop and experimentally validate a model for assessing the engineering maturity of a student project, integrating performance measurement, system modeling and justified improvement of the solution.
Method. Theoretical analysis of pedagogical and engineering approaches; modeling of the engineering maturity index; quasi-experiment with paired comparison; statistical analysis (Wilcoxon test, Cliff's delta); instrument validation through expert assessment.
Result. Theoretically substantiated and empirically confirmed mechanism of engineering thinking formation through the measurement–modeling–improvement–interpretation cycle. Developed project engineering maturity index (Cronbach's α = 0.87, inter-rater reliability r = 0.82). On a sample of 40 students (two cohorts): the proportion of projects with measurable improvement ≥20% increased from 23% (95% CI: 10.0–36.0) to 71% (95% CI: 56.9–85.1) (p < 0.001, Cohen's d = 1.34), the mean engineering score — from 61±12 (95% CI: 57.2–64.8) to 84±9 (95% CI: 81.2–86.8) (p < 0.001, d = 1.12), and artifact completeness — from 12% (95% CI: 1.9–22.1) to 89% (95% CI: 79.3–98.7) (p < 0.001, d = 2.15). Predictors of success identified: test protocol completeness (β = 0.42, p < 0.01) and bottleneck model quality (β = 0.38, p < 0.05).
Conclusion. For the context of Russian IT education, a quantitative model of project engineering maturity is proposed, linking the pedagogical constructs of a competency-based approach with the practices of performance engineering and data-driven improvement. Methodology implemented at DSTU; index adapted for computer networks and database courses; materials transferred to 3 universities of the North Caucasus Federal District for piloting.
About the Author
T. I. Isabekova
Daghestan State Technical University
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Tamila I. Isabekova, Cand. Sci.(Physical and Mathematical), Assoc. Prof., Head of the Department of Applied Mathematics and Informatics,
70 Imam Shamil Ave., Makhachkala 367015
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For citations:
Isabekova T.I. Mathematical Reengineering of IT Systems in System Programming Education: The Model for Assessing the Engineering Maturity of a Student Project. Herald of Dagestan State Technical University. Technical Sciences. 2026;53(1):73-85. (In Russ.) https://doi.org/10.21822/2073-6185-2026-53-1-73-85
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