Cognitive Software Engineering: A Research Framework and Roadmap

Abstract

The work of software engineers is inherently cognitive. Integral to their duties is understanding and developing several artifacts. Each one is based on a specific model and a given level of abstraction. What distinguishes Software Engineering is the logical complexity of some artifacts (especially programs), the high dependency among them, and the fact that the success of the software project also depends on the human and social factors, which characterize the engineers as individuals and as a group. The complexity of the daily tasks within a software development team motivates the investigation on the relevance of automating the software professionals’ cognitive processes in order to make their work easier and more efficient. The success of this endeavor is expected to emerge as Cognitive Software Engineering. For this aim, the present article suggests a research framework and roadmap, which build on the current state of the art. Some future directions in the Cognitive Software Engineering are presented.