Computer Engineering Commons^™

Evaluation Of Robocode As A Teaching Tool For Computer Programming, Arnold Hensman

Conference Papers

Robocode began as an educational tool to aid in learning Java programming. It has since evolved into something of a phenomenon, as the prospect of creating simple to complex virtual tanks appears to pose an attractive challenge to both novice and expert programmers alike. What started out as a teaching tool has grown into a worldwide network of competitors, all keen to prove that their ‘bot’ stands out from the crowd. Competitions are well organised and many Robocode events are a PR dream for the computing companies that sponsor them. Without a doubt, this easy to use application has sparked …

Self-Organizing Neural Architectures And Cooperative Learning In A Multiagent Environment, Dan Xiao, Ah-Hwee Tan

Research Collection School Of Computing and Information Systems

Temporal-Difference–Fusion Architecture for Learning, Cognition, and Navigation (TD-FALCON) is a generalization of adaptive resonance theory (a class of self-organizing neural networks) that incorporates TD methods for real-time reinforcement learning. In this paper, we investigate how a team of TD-FALCON networks may cooperate to learn and function in a dynamic multiagent environment based on minefield navigation and a predator/prey pursuit tasks. Experiments on the navigation task demonstrate that TD-FALCON agent teams are able to adapt and function well in a multiagent environment without an explicit mechanism of collaboration. In comparison, traditional Q-learning agents using gradient-descent-based feedforward neural networks, trained with the …

What Is Rcu, Fundamentally?, Paul E. Mckenney, Jonathan Walpole

Computer Science Faculty Publications and Presentations

Read-copy update (RCU) is a synchronization mechanism that was added to the Linux kernel in October of 2002. RCU achieves scalability improvements by allowing reads to occur concurrently with updates. In contrast with conventional locking primitives that ensure mutual exclusion among concurrent threads regardless of whether they be readers or updaters, or with reader-writer locks that allow concurrent reads but not in the presence of updates, RCU supports concurrency between a single updater and multiple readers. RCU ensures that reads are coherent by maintaining multiple versions of objects and ensuring that they are not freed up until all pre-existing read-side …

"Conversational" Dialogues In Direct-Manipulation Interfaces, David G. Novick

David G. Novick

This paper reports ongoing research in extending direct-manipulation interfaces by incorporating, via the direct-manipulation modality itself, interaction techniques that add kinds of language features associated with spoken conversation. The paper proposes means of implementing ways for a user of a direct-manipulation system to define new kinds of relations among objects in the interface.

Users And Uses Of Synchronous Business Communications Software, David G. Novick, Eleanor Wynn

David G. Novick

To help designers and authors understand users' intentions and work practices for synchronous business communications in a systematic way, we used ethnographic and task-analytic techniques to collect, analyze and classify evidence of the activities of potential users as they conducted their work lives. The interactions we observed among our users took place through a variety of modalities. We found eight categories of tasks for the collaborative or interactive work in which our subjects engaged. Based on these data, we were able to classify roles of potential users of synchronous business communications software into a set of "archetypes" that characterize their …

Hands-Free Documentation, Karen Ward, David G. Novick

David G. Novick

In this paper, we introduce an analysis of the requirements and design choices for hands-free documentation. Hands-busy tasks such as cooking or car repair may require substantial interruption of the task: moving the pan off the burner and wiping hands, or crawling out from underneath the car. We review the need for hands-free documentation and explore the role of task in the use of documentation. Our central analysis examines the roles and characteristics of input and output modalities of hands-free documentation. In particular, we review the use of speech as an input modality, and then visual means and speech as …

An Interaction Initiative Model For Documentation, David G. Novick, Karen Ward

David G. Novick

In this paper we propose a model of creation and use of documentation based on the concept of mixed-initiative interaction. In our model, successful single-initiative interaction is characterized by grounding of contributions, and successful mixed-initiative interaction is characterized by both grounding and agreement. Just as in spoken conversation, achievement of actual agreement depends on the intentions of both parties; agreement is achieved when the reader follows the documentation’s instructions. In fact, readers are not obligated to—and often do not—act according to the author’s intentions. By making these dynamics explicit, the model can aid authors in developing effective documentation. The paper …

Assessing Effectiveness Of Personality Style In Documentation, Kenneth Sayles, David G. Novick

David G. Novick

This paper extends previous work by other researchers that indicated that users of computers preferred a computer with a personality that was similar to theirs. We conducted a similar experiment, but looking beyond preference to see if the personality of documentation would make a difference in the user’s performance. Our data suggest did not indicate that personality match affects performance; and if such a relationship exists it is likely to be weak. We discuss the related research, describe our methodology, present our results, and describe their implications and limitations.

A Two-Phase Approach To Interactivity Enhancement For Large-Scale Distributed Virtual Environments, Nguyen Binh Duong Ta, Suiping Zhou

Research Collection School Of Computing and Information Systems

Distributed virtual environments (DVEs) are distributed systems that allow multiple geographically distributed clients (users) to interact simultaneously in a computer-generated, shared virtual world. Applications of DVEs can be seen in many areas nowadays, such as online games, military simulations, collaborative designs, etc. To support large-scale DVEs with real-time interactions among thousands or even more distributed clients, a geographically distributed server architecture (GDSA) is generally needed, and the virtual world can be partitioned into many distinct zones to distribute the load among the servers. Due to the geographic distributions of clients and servers in such architectures, it is essential to efficiently …

Ceg 320/520: Computer Organization, Michael L. Raymer

Computer Science & Engineering Syllabi

No abstract provided.

Ceg 221: Advanced C Programming For Engineers, Robert Helt

Computer Science & Engineering Syllabi

This course introduces advanced constructs, algorithms, and data structures in the C programming language. Emphasis is on problem solving and techniques useful to engineers. Topics include functions, array, pointers, structures as well as sorting algorithms, linked lists, complex numbers, stacks, queues, hash tables, and binary trees. 4 credit hours. Prerequisite: CEG220 (Introduction to C Programming for Engineers).

Ceg 420/620: Computer Architecture, Jack Jean

Computer Science & Engineering Syllabi

No abstract provided.

Ceg 210: Pc Networking I, Karen Meyer

Computer Science & Engineering Syllabi

Introduction to PC networking hardware, concepts, and technologies. Focus is on LAN administration, hardware and software configuration.

Ceg 220: Introduction To C Programming For Engineers I, Robert Helt

Computer Science & Engineering Syllabi

This course provides a general introduction to computers as a problem-solving tool using the C programming language. Emphasis is on algorithms and techniques useful to engineers. Topics include data representation, debugging, and program verification. 4 credit hours. Prerequisite: MTH 229 (Calculus I) or EGR 101 (Engineering Mathematics).f

Ceg 233: Linux And Windows, Prabhaker Mateti

Computer Science & Engineering Syllabi

Introduction to Linux and Windows systems. GUI and Windowing Systems. Files and Directories. Ownership and Sharing. Programs and Processes. System calls, Libraries. Loading. Dynamic linking. Command Line Shells. Scripting languages. Regular expressions. Clients and Servers. Web browser clients and servers. Secure shell, sftp. SSL/TSL. HTTPS. System Administration.

Ceg 220: Introduction To C Programming For Engineers I, Jay Dejongh

Computer Science & Engineering Syllabi

This course provides a general introduction to computers as a problem-solving tool using the C programming language. Emphasis is on algorithms and techniques useful to engineers. Topics include data representation, debugging, and program verification. 4 credit hours. Prerequisite: MTH 229 (Calculus I) or EGR 101 (Engineering Mathematics).

Ceg 360/560 Ee 451/651: Digital System Design, Meilin Liu

Computer Science & Engineering Syllabi

Design of digital systems. Topics include flip-flops, registers, counters, programmable logic devices, memory devices, register-level design, and microcomputer system organization. Students must show competency in the design of digital systems.

Ceg 433/633: Operating Systems, Thomas Wischgoll

Computer Science & Engineering Syllabi

By the end of this quarter, you should be able to apply the concepts above to the following:

• Develop, test and debug programs in Unix.

• Improve the performance of programs by tuning virtual memory usage, and file io.

• Design and construct device drivers for Unix.

• Design and build newer file systems for any OS.

Ceg 402/602: Introduction To Computer Communication, Bin Wang

Computer Science & Engineering Syllabi

This course provides an introduction to basic concepts of communication networks, different types of networks, protocols over different layers, and network applications through lectures, labs, homework, and reading on relevant materials.

You will

• Understand networking principles, protocols, and technologies.

• Understand some design and performance issues involved in providing a network service.

• Acquire background for supporting e-commerce, e-government, and e-education.

• Gain hands-on experience with programming techniques for network protocols.

• Obtain background for original research in computer networks.

Ceg 498: Design Experience, Thomas C. Hartrum

Computer Science & Engineering Syllabi

CEG 498 (Design Experience) is a summative computer engineering design project course that builds upon previous engineering, science, mathematics and communications course work. CEG 498 projects are a minimum of two quarters in length and must be completed in groups of at least three students. Projects are selected under the guidance of the course instructor and are tailored to both student interest and formal classroom preparation. Students are evaluated both on their individual contributions as recorded in a graded engineering journal and on the quality of their collective efforts as reflected in group generated products.

Student groups meet with the …

Ceg 720: Computer Architecture I, Soon M. Chung

Computer Science & Engineering Syllabi

Review of sequential computer architecture and study of parallel computers. Topics include memory hierarchy, reduced instruction set computer, pipeline processing, multiprocessing, various parallel computers, interconnection networks, and fault-tolerant computing.

Ceg 724: Computer Vision I, Arthur A. Goshtasby

Computer Science & Engineering Syllabi

This course covers basic techniques for low-level and some mid-level vision. The techniques include: camera geometry, image filtering and edge detection, color and texture analysis, image segmentation, and stereo depth perception.

Ceg 760: Advanced Software Computer Engineering, Thomas C. Hartrum

Computer Science & Engineering Syllabi

This course covers advanced topics in software engineering. Aspects of problem specification, design, verification, and evaluation are discussed. We will focus on design methods, including software patterns and software architecture, plus some advanced topics involving formal methods of software specification or evaluation using software metrics. Students will participate in team projects to apply the methods discussed.

Ceg 730: Distributed Computing Principles, Prabhaker Mateti

Computer Science & Engineering Syllabi

Communicating sequential processes, clients and servers, remote procedure calls, stub generation, weak and strong semaphores, split-binary-semaphores, and distributed termination. Example languages: SR, Linda.

Ceg 777: Computer Aided Geometric Design, Arthur A. Goshtasby

Computer Science & Engineering Syllabi

To cover the fundamentals of geometric modeling, including design of curves and surfaces, composite curves and surfaces, and subdivision techniques for creation of free-form shapes.

Ceg 770: Computer Engineering Mathematics, Yong Pei

Computer Science & Engineering Syllabi

Computer Engineering and Science students need proficiency in relevant applied mathematics to be able to discover and model difficult real-world computer engineering and science problems. The relationship of these problems to mathematical theory will be discussed. This course provides an introduction to linear and nonlinear programming, probability and stochastic process, and queueing theory. In addition to mathematical theory, appropriate applications will be presented.

Ceg 790: Emerging Networks, Bin Wang

Computer Science & Engineering Syllabi

This is a graduate level course on emerging networking technologies. The course involves a reading/lecture/presentation/discussion component, paper review component, and a project component. It will provide an in-depth study on a number of focused areas: dense wavelength division multiplexing (D\VDM) optical networks, optical burst switching networks, peer-to-peer networks, and wireless mobile networks (including Ad-hoc wireless networks, sensor networks). Various technical and research issues involved will be studied. These areas of emerging networking technologies will play central roles in future communication networks.

Cs 141: Computer Programming - I, Michael Ondrasek

Computer Science & Engineering Syllabi

This course provides a general introduction to the fundamentals of computer programming. Examples from and applications to a broad range of problems are given. No prior knowledge of programming is assumed. The concepts covered will be applied to the Java programming language. Students must register for both lecture and one laboratory section. 4 credit hours. Prerequisite: MTH 127 (College Algebra) or equivalent.

Cs 205-08: Introduction To Computers And Office Productivity Software, Kim Gros

Computer Science & Engineering Syllabi

Focus on learning MS Office software applications including word processing (intermediate), spreadsheets, database and presentation graphics using a case study approach where critical thinking and problem solving skills are required. Computer concepts are integrated throughout the course to provide an understanding of the basics of computing, the latest technological advances and how they are used in industry. Ethics and issues encountered in business are discussed to challenge students on societal impact of technology.

Cs 206-02: Advanced Concepts/Techniques And Software Productivity Tools, John P. Herzog

Computer Science & Engineering Syllabi

By the end of this course, the students will have a greater depth of understanding in the areas of word processing, spreadsheets, databases, and presentation software and web design using Microsoft Word, Microsoft FrontPage, Microsoft Excel, Access, and PowerPoint.