Computer Science Course Descriptions for Fall of 2002

CMPSCI 102: Computers and Society (R2)

Professor:

There are three principal components to this course: 1) what computers are, 2) how they are used in society, and 3) how their use affects society. In the first part we explore the origin of computers and the historical, economic, and scientific forces that brought them into existence. We also study the essential hardware components that make up a computer and we learn the basic software methods of programming using the JavaScript language. In the second part, usage of computers by business in the office and in factory automation, by the professions such as medicine, and by artists and scientists is covered; special attention is given to the advent of the Information Super Highway, how to use it and how it can benefit individual users. Finally the economic and socio-political impact that computers are having on society and on the individual are discussed; these issues range from questions of privacy to the impact of robots in the factory, to the use of computers in political action. The primary aim of the course is to impart sufficient computer literacy to enable the student to 1) write simple, but non-trivial programs, 2) make use of and benefit from available computer facilities, and 3) understand why computers have become such a powerful force in the modern society. Pre-Registration not available to majors and pre-majors. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 105: Computer Literacy (R2)

Professor: Verts

Microcomputers are now used widely not only in academia but in all areas of modern life. For this reason it's important that all students understand how computers work and how computers can be used as a problem-solving tool. The focus of this course is on computer applications. The course stresses the ways in which computers can help you solve problems efficiently and effectively. The course provides a broad introduction to hardware and software aspects of microcomputers. Then four application areas are discussed: word processing, spreadsheets, databases and telecommunications (access to the Internet). Weekly lab assignments are an integral part of the course. Students in lectures 1A, 2A, C, V, W, X use the University's microcomputer labs, all other students are expected to use their own equipment. Students who are more interested in computer programming should take CMPSCI 121 or 187. Prerequisites: reasonable high school math skills. Typing ability is also an important asset for the course. Previous computer experience is not expected. Pre-registration is not available to majors and pre-majors. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 105C: Computer Literacy (R2)

Professor: Verts

CMPSCI 105W: Computer Literacy (R2)

Professor: Verts

CMPSCI 105X: Computer Literacy (R2)

Professor: Verts

CMPSCI 120: Introduction to Problem Solving with the Internet (R2)

Professor: Hesse

The Internet is a goldmine of information and software resources for those who know how to plug in and navigate it. Originally designed by computer scientists for computer scientists, the net is now a driving force behind life in the information age and a new global economy. This course will provide non-CMPSCI majors with timely skills needed to tap the net. We will cover Web browser features, e-mail management, Web page design, software downloads, strategies for finding information and virtual communities, and public key cryptography. In addition, we will survey key social and political topics that are relevant to the Internet, such as copyright laws, First Amendment issues, privacy in a digital world, and the culture of the Internet. Prerequisites: some hands-on experience with PCs or MACs or UNIX (programming experience is NOT required). CMPSCI majors and pre-majors may not pre-register. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 121: Introduction to Problem Solving with Computers (R2)

Professor: Eliot, Lehnert

An introductory course in problem solving and computer programming using the programming language Java. The course focuses on the fundamental concepts of problem solving and the techniques associated with the development of algorithms and their implementation as computer programs. This course or its equivalent is required for all additional courses in CMPSCI. Three hours of lecture/recitation per week. About 6 programming projects are assigned. In addition there are assigned homework problems, a midterm exam and a final. No computer science prerequisite, although basic math skills (e.g. R1) and basic computer literacy (as taught in CMPSCI 105) are assumed. There will be a computer literacy exam during the first week to assess your general computer competence. Use of computer is required. Prerequisite: R1. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 121H: Introduction to Problem Solving with Computers (R2)

Professor: Lehnert

See description for CMPSCI 121. Honors students will cover some additional topics beyond the curriculum for CMPSCI 121, and will be required to complete one additional programming project. Previous experience with Java or some other programming language is strongly recommended but is not required. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 145(195A): Representing, Storing, and Retrieving Information

Professor:

An introductory course in the use of data in computer systems, intended to become a core course for the proposed Information Technology certificate. Formats for representing text, numbers, sound, images, etc., as strings of bits. Basic information theory, use and limitations of file compression and encryption. Structured databases and how to use them. Information retrieval in heterogenous environments such as the Web. XML as a language for defining new formats for representing data. Review of historical, pre-computer methods of information representation. Prerequisites: "Basic computer literacy", i.e., user-level familiarity with a modern operating system and some experience with application programs. Tier I math skills. Recommended for First Year and Sophomore Non-Majors. Prerequisite: R1. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 187: Programming with Data Structures (R2)

Professor: Graham

The course introduces and develops methods for designing and implementing abstract data types, using the Java programming language. The main focus is on how to build and encapsulate data objects and their associated operations. Specific topics include linked structures, recursive structures and algorithms, binary trees, balanced trees, and hash tables. There will be weekly assignments, consisting of programming and written exercises, a midterm, and a final exam. Prerequisites: CMPSCI 121 (or equivalent-not necessarily in Java) and Basic Math Skills (R1). Basic Java language concepts are introduced quickly. Prior experience with an object-oriented language is very helpful; if unsure of background, contact instructor. 4 credits.

CMPSCI 187D: Programming with Data Structures (R2)

Professor: Barrington

See Description for 187

CMPSCI 191A: CMPSCI TAP Seminar

Professor: Wileden

Conversations with members of the UMass CMPSCI community, to explore issues in and subareas of computer science. Oral presentations by students on topics they research. Open only to first-year students in the CMPSCI TAP residential program. 1 credit.

CMPSCI 196A: Independent Study - TA for CMPSCI 120 Problem Solving with the Internet

Professor: Hesse

To support CMPSCI 120 students in the Edlab. Planned activities include three hours/week in person plus email and help grading student assignments. Reliability, availability, and weekly reports are the criteria for evaluation. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 201: Architecture and Assembly Language (E)

Professor: Verts

Lecture, discussion, lab. The architecture and machine-level operations of modern computers at the logic, component, and system levels. Topics include integer, scaled, and floating point binary arithmetic; Boolean algebra and logic gates; control, arithmetic-logic, and pipeline units; addressing modes; cache, primary, and virtual memory; system buses; input-output and interrupts. Simple assembly language for a modern embedded processor is used to explore how common computational tasks are accomplished by a computer. Two lectures, one discussion, and one lab session per week. Laboratory exercises, homework exercises, in-class quizzes, two midterm exams, and a final exam. Prerequisite: CMPSCI 187 or ECE 242 or equivalent. Comment on Lab 1: Students registering for CMPSCI H01 must register for Lab 1. 4 credits.

CMPSCI 250: Introduction to Computation (E)

Professor: Rissland

Lecture, discussion. Basic concepts of discrete mathematics useful to computer science: set theory, strings and formal languages, propositional and predicate calculus, relations and functions, basic number theory. Induction and recursion: interplay of inductive definition, inductive proof, and recursive algorithms. Elementary combinatorics. Finite-state machines, regular languages, nondeterministic finite automata, Kleene's Theorem. Problem sets, 2-3 midterm exams, timed final. Corequisite: MATH 132/136 or equivalent. Prerequisite: MATH 131 and (CMPSCI 187 or ECE 242). 4 credits.

CMPSCI 287: Programming Language Paradigms

Professor: Lehnert

Lecture, discussion, programming projects, lab. Programming language paradigms provide a basic philosophy to support the construction of reliable large-scale systems. This course discusses four such paradigms. In the functional paradigm, software is constructed in such a way as to minimize the use of side-effects, thereby simplifying the conceptual structure of programs and making them easier to analyze and understand. The logic paradigm supports the development of software in which the concept of relation (e.g. a relation between people) is more important than the concept of function. In the imperative paradigm we are concerned with principled ways in which software that is state-dependent can be constructed. Finally, in the object-oriented paradigm we are concerned with combining data with code to create "objects" which exhibit behavior. Prerequisite: CMPSCI 187 or ECE 242. Corequisites: CMPSCI 250 and MATH 132. 4 credits.

CMPSCI 305: Social Issues in Computing

Professor: Moll, Constantine

Designed to satisfy the Junior Year writing requirement, CMPSCI 305 introduces the student to technical writing and editing, scientific journalism and the social essay. The course combines practical, scientific writing as found in industry and business with explorative essays that focus attention upon the technological and humanistic concerns inherent in society. Ten written assignments-two longer papers, eight shorter ones and one oral presentation. Prerequisite: ENGLWP 112 or CW. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 311: Introduction to Algorithms

Professor: Immerman

This course will introduce you to algorithms in a variety of areas of interest, such as sorting, searching, string-processing, and graph algorithms. You will learn to study the performance of various algorithms within a formal, mathematical framework. You will also learn how to design very efficient algorithms for many kinds of problems. There will be a few programming assignments as well to help you relate the empirical performance of an algorithm to theoretical predictions. Mathematical experience (as provided by CMPSCI 250) is required. You should also be able to program in Java (or some other closely related language). Prerequisite: CMPSCI 250 or MATH 455. 4 credits.

CMPSCI 320: Introduction to Software Engineering

Professor: Clarke

In this course, students learn and gain practical experience with software engineering principles and techniques. The practical experience centers on a semester-long team project in which a software development project is carried through all the stages of the software life cycle. Topics in this course include requirements analysis, specification, design, abstraction, programming style, testing, maintenance, and software project management. Particular emphasis is placed on designing and developing maintainable software and on the use of object-oriented techniques throughout the software lifecycle. Use of computer required. Two exams, several homeworks and in-class presentations, major term project. Prerequisite: CMPSCI 287. 4 credits.

CMPSCI 377: Operating Systems

Professor: Fagg

In this course we examine the important problems in operating system design and implementation. The operating system provides a well-known, convenient, and efficient interface between user programs and the bare hardware of the computer on which they run. The operating system is responsible for allowing resources (e.g., disks, networks, and processors) to be shared, providing common services needed by many different programs (e.g., file service, the ability to start or stop processes, and access to the printer), and protecting individual programs from one another. The course will start with a brief historical perspective of the evolution of operating systems over the last fifty years, and then cover the major components of most operating systems. This discussion will cover the tradeoffs that can be made between performance and functionality during the design and implementation of an operating system. Particular emphasis will be given to three major OS subsystems: process management (processes, threads, CPU scheduling, synchronization, and deadlock), memory management (segmentation, paging, swapping), file systems, and operating system support for distributed systems. Assignments: 3 labs in Java, 3 exams, 6 or more written homeworks. Prerequisites: CMPSCI 187 and (CMPSCI 201 or ECE 232). 4 credits.

CMPSCI 383: Artificial Intelligence

Professor: Utgoff

The course explores heuristic search as a basic building block for intelligent computer systems. The class discussion and the weekly homeworks are organized around three projects: Free Cell, jigsaw puzzles, and Amazons (two person board game). In the final two weeks of the course, we survey a variety of traditional topics in building intelligent systems, showing how heuristic search applies. There are weekly programming assignments, a midterm, and a final. There is no text; material is presented inclass, and made available on the class Web pages. Prerequisites: CMPSCI 250 and CMPSCI 287 and CMPSCI 311. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 391F: Seminar - HTML for Poets

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An exploration of the Hyper Text Markup Language and its philosophical implications for Society in the New Millennium. Java Script will also be discussed. Students cannot receive credit for both this course and CMPSCI 591x Seminar-HTML for Poets. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 396A: Independent Study - Debugging and Consulting

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In this course we teach students how to consult on topics involving E-mail, e.g., Pine or Goldmail or Mail; Operating Systems such as Unix; Editors such as Pico; one computer language: JavaScript; and most of HTML. Necessary skills on how to debug Home Pages written in HTML and simple but non trivial programs written in JavaScript are also acquired. Consultants are required to attend all weekly meetings [mandatory], consult with CMPSCI 102 students to review basic concepts and help debug programs [2hrs minimum weekly at a terminal]. Consultants are also required to grade programming assignments [6 for each student]. In general each consultant will be responsible for no less than 6 students. May not be repeated for credit more than twice. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 396B: Independent Study - TA for CMPSCI 391F Seminar - HTML for Poets

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In the CMPSCI 391F seminar "HTML for Poets" we cover HTML in the first half, and Javascript during the second half. HTML, Javascript, and Java, form an extremely powerful trio of platform independent languages that allow practically anyone to propagate ideas, create business and retrieve massive amounts of information from the World Wide Web through the creation of Web sites and the use of Web browsers. Throughout the seminar HTML and Javascript are taught as tools to implement elements of design to realize web sites whose content needs to be communicated in a professional and appealing way. Possible political and philosophical consequences are also discussed. Students are required to use HTML and Javascript constructs learned in the seminar to create/improve a Web page of their own. Students are also required to review a professional Web site each week and analyze its content, form, appeal and tools used in its construction. A final project is also required. A large number of working examples are posted on the Web for student perusal. TAs for the Seminar must know and be able to explain the following material: Intro: Overview of the World Wide Web, Browsers and Servers. Basic HTML: Distributing Information with HTML, building blocks of HTML, creating an HTML document, linking HTML documents, graphics and Images. Advanced HTML: Client-side Imagemaps, Tables and Math, Frames, Embedded objects, Sound, MIDI, Animation, Forms and CGI scripts, Dynamic documents. Javascript: Javascript as an event driven, object-based, scripting language. Javascript versus Java. Events and event handlers. Programming basics: Variables, identifiers, types, scope of variables. Expressions, operators: arithmetic, string, logical, assignment, comparison. Statements: variable declaration, comments, conditional statements, loops, object manipulation, Functions. Objects: Objects, classes, inheritance. Objects built in Javascript: navigator, location, buttons, reset, select, submit, text and more. Arrays:built in Arrays, creating Arrays and filling them with data. Methods, properties and functions: math methods, string methods, date, window methods, blur, focus, select and more. Knowledge of Unix and mail filters is also required. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 410(491A): Compiler Techniques

Professor: Moss

This course explores the basic problems in the translation of programming languages focusing on theory and common implementation techniques for compiling traditional block structured programming languages to produce assembly or object code for typical machines. The course involves a substantial laboratory project in which the student constructs a working compiler for a considerable subset of a realistic programming language. The lectures are augmented by an optional laboratory section that covers details of the programming language used to build the compiler, the operating system, the source language, and various tools. Use of computer required. Text: Crafting a Compiler in C, by Fischer and LeBlanc. Prerequisites: (CMPSCI 250 or MATH 455) and CMPSCI 377. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 445: Information Systems

Professor: Wileden

Introduction to database systems. File organization, database system architectures, data models, database design, relational systems, query optimization, recovery and concurrency control. Prerequisite: CMPSCI 287. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 445X: Information Systems

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CMPSCI 496A: Independent Study - Question-Answering Using Semi-Structured Data

Professor: Croft

Students will build a research database for question-answering based on data from the US Geological Survey. Design and implementation of a user interface for collecting relevance judgments for both information retrieval and question-answering tasks. Familiarization with the existing system, designing and modifying to suit specific needs. Investigate the relevance issues in human factors and user interface designs through external reading. Maintain a journal, code reviews, and summary report. Acceptable for Advanced Technical Elective, subject to Associate Chair approval. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 520X: Software Engineering: Synthesis and Development

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CMPSCI 521: Software Engineering: Analysis and Evaluation

Professor: Adrion

Software systems have become an integral part of our societal infrastructure. Software controls life-critical applications, such as air traffic control and medical devices, and is of central importance in telecommunication and electronic commerce. In this course, we will examine state of the art practices for testing and analyzing software systems that require high assurance. We will initially look at techniques developed for sequential systems but then examine the complexity that arises from distributed systems. Laboratory requirements: students will be required to carry out an individual or group project that applies or extends some of the techniques described in class. Text: course material will be drawn from the software engineering literature.Prerequisites: CMPSCI 320, Introduction to Software Engineering (or equivalent course). 3 credits.

CMPSCI 521X: Software Engineering: Analysis and Evaluation

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CMPSCI 530X: Programming Languages

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CMPSCI 535: Computer Architecture

Professor: Weems

The structure of digital computers is studied at several levels, from the basic logic level, to the component level, to the system level. Topics include: the design of basic components such as arithmetic units and registers from logic gates; the organization of basic subsystems such as the memory and I/O subsystems; the interplay between hardware and software in a computer system; the von Neumann architecture and its performance enhancements such as cache memory, instruction and data pipelines, coprocessors, and parallelism. Weekly assignments, semester project, 2 hours exams, final. Prerequisites: (CMPSCI 250 or MATH 455) and CMPSCI 377. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 551: Three-Dimensional Animation and Digital Editing

Professor: Woolf

This seminar is dedicated to the production of high quality 3-dimensional computer animation using graphics technology. For example, color 3-D objects are defined and manipulated, digitized images created and altered, and photo-realistic effects and animated sequences produced. Techniques are used to bend and twist shapes around objects or lines, to provide a variety of light and texture, and to trace over images including digitized pictures. The course is directed at production of an informative and approachable ten minute 3-dimensional animated piece. Using computer-generated graphical analogies as well as cartoon caricature, the video is designed to educate and entertain. The class does not have lab facilities for all students interested in this material and thus we limit the class to students who do well on the first assignment. This assignment will be graded and returned to students before the end of the Add/Drop period. Students are cordially invited to attend the first class, the first Tuesday/Thursday of the semester. At that time we will explain the course, what is expected of students and the entry condition. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 552: Interactive Multimedia Production

Professor: Woolf

This course explores the potential of high quality interactive authoring tools to develop presentation and training systems. Programming languages within professional presentation and editing packages will be used to create systems capable of presenting graphics, animation, text, sound and music, based on the users requests. Students will learn how to define and manipulate classical techniques such as storyboarding, staging, and interactivity. The course will concentrate on state-of-the-art multimedia composition and presentation techniques and developing small individual projects. The class does not have lab facilities for all students interested in this material and thus we limit the class to students who do well on the first assignment. This assignment will be graded and returned to students before the end of the Add/Drop period. Students are cordially invited to attend the first class, the first Tuesday/Thursday of the semester. At that time we will explain the course, what is expected of students and the entry condition. Prerequisite: CMPSCI 551 (591x) - 3D Computer Animation and Digital Editing. Permission of the instructor required; contact: Beverly Woolf 545-4265. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 553(591U): Interactive Web Animation

Professor: Woolf

This course teaches basic animation for the Web, interactivity, color theory, design, action scripting, and transitions. Students maintain their own web sites and submit projects every 2 weeks in Flash. Individual as well as, a final project are required. Knowledge of basic Web development, e.g., HTML, Java Script. Prerequisite: CMPSCI 391F; CMPSCI 551 and CMPSCI 552 preferred. Permission of instructor is required. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 554(591V): Multimedia Production Management

Professor: Woolf

This course involves developing a large group 3D animation, beginning with a storyboard, developing models, lighting, background, sound and music. It involves team management, group dynamics, and production techniques. The final project will be demonstrated on the last day of class, to over 100 people. Prerequisite: CMPSCI 551. Permission of instructor is required. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 570(591A): Computer Vision

Professor: Hanson

People are able to infer the characteristics of a scene or object from an image of it. In this course, we will study what is involved in building artificial systems which try to infer such characteristics from an image. Topics include: Basics of image formation - the effect of geometry, viewpoint, lighting and albedo on image formation. Basic image operations such as filtering, convolution and correlation. Frequency representations of images. The importance of scale in images. Measurements of image properties such as color, texture, appearance and shape. Inference of motion and structure from moving objects and images. Detecting and recognizing objects in images. The graduate version CMPSCI 670(691A) requires more work than this version of the course. Prerequisite: Linear algebra, calculus and an ability to program. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 572: Neurobiology

Professor: Wyse

Lecture. Biology of nerve cells and cellular interactions in nervous systems. Lectures integrate structural, functional, developmental, and biochemical approaches. Topics include neuronal anatomy and physiology, membrane potentials, synapses, development of neuronal connections, visual system, control of movement, and neural plasticity. Text: Essentials of Neural Science, Kandel et al. ; reserve readings, 2 hour-exams, final, short critique paper. Prerequisite: Biology 285 or 523; or both PSYCH 330 and Intro. Biology. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 575: Combinatorics

Professor: Moll

This course is a basic introduction to combinatorics and graph theory for advanced undergraduates in computer science, mathematics, engineering and science. Topics covered include: elements of graph theory; Euler and Hamiltonian circuits; graph coloring; matching; basic counting methods; generating functions; recurrences; inclusion-exclusion; and Polya's theory of counting. Prerequisites: mathematical maturity; calculus; linear algebra; strong performance in some discrete mathematics class, such as CMPSCI250 or MATH 455. Modern Algebra - MATH 411 - is helpful but not required. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 591E(591X): Seminar - Computer Networking

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CMPSCI 591F: Seminar - Software Engineering Management Practicum

Professor: Clarke

The purpose of this course is to provide students with practical experience in the management of software development projects. Students in this course will gain this experience by serving as software development team technical managers for teams of software engineering students in CMPSCI 320. As software development team managers, the students in CMPSCI 591F will be responsible for: supervising and managing the work of teams of CMPSCI 320 students; interfacing with the other CMPSCI 591F students managing other teams in the course; interfacing with the course instructor, course TA, and course customer. CMPSCI 591F students will be assigned readings in software engineering project management to provide a theoretical basis for their work in this course. But the majority of work in the course will be related to the actual management of assigned development teams. As team managers, CMPSCI 591F students will set goals and schedules for their teams, track and report team progress, negotiate with leaders of other teams and the course customer, and evaluate the work of members of their teams. CMPSCI 591F course assignments may include: written team goals, plans and schedules; periodic reports on team progress; documentation of agreements reached with other team leaders and customers; evaluations of the applicability of theoretical papers to the work of this course. This course will meet at the same times and places as CMPSCI 320. Additional meetings with team members and other students in CMPSCI 591F are also expected to be arranged by mutual agreement. Enrollment in this course is only by permission of the instructor, and is restricted to students who have previously taken CMPSCI 320, and received a grade of A or AB. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 591G: Seminar-Computer Networking Lab

Professor: Kurose

CMPSCI 591O: Seminar - Character Animation

Professor: Woolf

This class focuses exclusively on character animation techniques. The goal is to attain proficiency in modeling, texturing and animation. Modeling topics include character modeling and bones, designing joints and creating chains with constraints for easy animation, facial modelling and lip sync, designing faces with economical splinage to simplify facial animation, breaking down voice tracks into phonemes and animating facial and body language to match the track. Animation topics include action andpose, timing, overlap, pacing, and simulating and exaggerating physical laws. Student will create their own final project or work in a small team. Prerequisites: CMPSCI 551 (591x)--3D Animation and Digital Editing or equivalent experience and a personal computer. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 591T: Seminar - Introduction to Algorithmics

Professor: Rosenberg

This course will introduce the methodology and "culture" of algorithmic reasoning and techniques of analysis. The emphasis will be on understanding rather than just learning. The specific topics to be covered and the method of covering them will be geared to the needs of the enrollees. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 596A: Independent Study - TA for CMPSCI 551 3D Animation

Professor: Woolf

TAs are responsible for developing student assignments weekly and for group grading assignments every two weeks. They typically give one lecture per semester and also spend 6 hours/week in the Animation Lab assisting students. TAs setup and maintain hardware and software needed for lectures - 3 or 4 commercial graphics packages. TAs take a lead role in the final course production, a group effort of 6-8 weeks work. Each TA manages 4-5 students organized in groups for 1) character animation, 2) lighting, 3) special effects, 4) surfaces, and 5) editing. The TA creates weekly tasks for each student in his/her group and makes sure that the work is complete and passed along to the next group on time. Prerequisite: CMPSCI 551 with grade of B or better. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 596B: Independent Study - TA for CMPSCI 552 Interactive Multimedia Production

Professor: Woolf

TAs are responsible for developing student assignments weekly and for group grading of assignments every two weeks. They typically give one lecture per semester, plus spend 6 hours/week in the Animation Lab assisting students. Setup/maintain hardware and software needed for lectures - 1 or 2 commercial graphics packages in addition to Director. Also setup and maintain an internet site into which students put their class assignments. Work with students on individual Director final projects; maintaincommuniction between 12-15 students, intstructors and TAs. Prerequisite: CMPSCI 552 with grade of B or better. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 596C: Independent Study - TA for CMPSCI 591O Seminar-Character Animation

Professor: Woolf

TAs are responsible for providing assistance to the instructor and students of CMPSCI 591O Seminar-Character Animation. Activities will include critiquing students work and providing useful feedback. Grading the class projects and homework assignments, and spending at least 6 hours each week in the laboratory to help the students with their daily work for the class. Evaluation will be done by the instructor based upon the quality of assistance to the students, attendance at the lectures and hours spent in the animation laboratory. Grading will also be based on advanced projects by the student and presented at the end of the semester. Prerequisite: CMPSCI 591O with grade of B or better. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 596D: Independent Study - Advanced Computer Modeling

Professor: Woolf

This course focuses on production of high quality models, beginning with simple vases, desks, lamps and moving to character and humanoids. Students will model organic shapes, such as fruit, using splines, lathes, and extrudes. Surfacing topics such as specularity, reflection, trasparency, glow, decals and image maps will be discussed and modeled. Texture and advanced lighting techniques will be developed. Students will develop humanoid characters, modeling torso, shoulders, pelvis, arms, legs and hands feet and eyeballs. Geometry bones will be added to the final characters along with kinematic constraints and Euler Limits. The character's face will "lip sync" to speak or sing. Students will also create low patch proxy models of their characters to be used for blocking and simple motion within a final animation. These characters will be rigged for animation and the models given to students in the Animation Class for creation of the final project. Students will complete five independent modeling assignments and a final project in which their characters are animated by the Animation Class. The class does not have lab facilities for all students interested in this material and thus we limit the class to students who do well on the first assignment. This assignment will be graded and returned to students before the end of the Add/Drop period. Students are cordially invited to attend the first class, the first Tuesday/Thursday of the semester. At that time we will explain the course, what is expected of students and the entry condition. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 610: Compiler Techniques

Professor: Moss

This course explores the basic problems in the translation of programming languages focusing on theory and common implementation techniques for compiling traditional block structured programming languages to produce assembly or object code for typical machines. The course involves a substantial laboratory project in which the student constructs a working compiler for a considerable subset of a realistic programming language. The lectures are augmented by an optional laboratory section that covers details of the programming language used to build the compiler, the operating system, the source language, and various tools. Use of computer required. Text: Crafting a Compiler in C, by Fischer and LeBlanc. Prerequisite: CMPSCI 377 or 402. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 611: Advanced Algorithms

Professor: Adler

Principles underlying the design and analysis of efficient algorithms. Topics to be covered include: divide-and-conquer algorithms, graph algorithms, matroids and greedy algorithms, randomized algorithms, NP-completeness, approximation algorithms, linear programming. Prerequisites: The mathematical maturity expected of incoming Computer Science graduate students, knowledge of algorithms at the level of CMPSCI 311. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 611X: Advanced Algorithms

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CMPSCI 620X: Advanced Software Engineering: Synthesis and Development

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CMPSCI 621: Advanced Software Engineering: Analysis and Evaluation

Professor: Adrion

Software systems have become an integral part of our societal infrastructure. Software controls life-critical applications, such as air traffic control and medical devices, and is of central importance in telecommunication and electronic commerce. In this course, we will examine state of the art practices for testing and analyzing software systems that require high assurance. We will initially look at techniques developed for sequential systems but then examine the complexity that arises from distributed systems. Laboratory requirements: students will be required to carry out an individual or group project that applies or extends some of the techniques described in class. Text: course material will be drawn from the software engineering literature.Prerequisites: CMPSCI 320, Introduction to Software Engineering (or equivalent course). This course is taught concurrently with CMPSCI 521, but students taking CMPSCI 621 are expected to do additional and more challenging homework problems and projects. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 621X: Advanced Software Engineering: Analysis and Evaluation

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CMPSCI 646: Information Retrieval

Professor: Allan

The course will cover basic and advanced techniques for text-based information systems. Topics covered include retrieval models, indexing and text representation, browsing and query formulation, routing, distributed information retrieval, and integration with database systems. The course will include implementation of major elements of an information retrieval system. Prerequisite: CMPSCI 445 or equivalent. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 646X: Information Retrieval

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CMPSCI 653: Computer Networking

Professor: Kurose

This course covers advanced fundamental principles of computer networks, studying foundational material in the field. Topics include protocol mechanisms and implementation principles, protocol specification/verification techniques, network algorithmics, advanced network architecture, network simulation, performance analysis, and measurement. Prerequisites: introductory (undergraduate level) courses in computer networks (e.g., CMPSCI 453/591,), operating systems (e.g., CMPSCI 377), and algorithms (e.g., CMPSCI 311). Some familiarity with probability will also be needed. 3 Credits.

CMPSCI 670(691A): Computer Vision

Professor: Hanson

People are able to infer the characteristics of a scene or object from an image of it. In this course, we will study what is involved in building artificial systems which try to infer such characteristics from an image. Topics include: Basics of image formation - the effect of geometry, viewpoint, lighting and albedo on image formation. Basic image operations such as filtering, convolution and correlation. Frequency representations of images. The importance of scale in images. Measurements of image properties such as color, texture, appearance and shape. Inference of motion and structure from moving objects and images. Detecting and recognizing objects in images. This course is the graduate version of CMPSCI 570(591A) and it requires more work compared to the undergraduate version CMPSCI 570(591A). Prerequisite: Linear algebra, calculus and an ability to program. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 677X: Operating Systems

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CMPSCI 683: Artificial Intelligence

Professor: Lesser

In-depth introduction to Artificial Intelligence focusing on techniques that allow intelligent systems to operate in real-time and cope with missing information, uncertainty, and limited computational resources. Topics include: advanced search and problem-solving techniques, resource-bounded search, principles of knowledge representation and reasoning, meta-reasoning, reasoning under uncertainty, Bayesian networks and influence diagrams, decision theory and the value of information, planning and scheduling, intelligent agents architectures, and learning. Prerequisites: Undergraduate background in Computer Science, and an undergraduate Artificial Intelligence course (CMPSCI 383 or equivalent). 3 credits.

CMPSCI 683X: Artificial Intelligence

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CMPSCI 686(691E): Reasoning and Acting Under Uncertainty

Professor: Zilberstein

Complex computer systems are frequently required to make decisions based on uncertain and incomplete information. This problem arises in automated diagnosis and repair systems, autonomous planning and control, forecasting, and image processing. This course covers recently developed methods that allow intelligent systems to reason and act under uncertainty. It blends theoretical background with efficient reasoning techniques and applications. Topics include the sources of uncertainty in intelligent systems, numeric and symbolic representations of uncertainty, nonmonotonic reasoning, probabilistic reasoning with Bayesian networks, learning Bayesian networks, decision theory and the value of information, influence diagrams, models of bounded rationality, sequential decision making (MDPs and POMDPs), alternative approaches to probabilistic reasoning such as Depster-Shafer and Fuzzy logic, and software packages for reasoning under uncertainty. Prerequisites: An undergraduate AI course or permission of instructor. Credit: 3 units

CMPSCI 687: Reinforcement Learning

Professor: Mahadevan

A comprehensive introduction to reinforcement learning, an approach to artificial intelligence emphasizing learning from interaction to achieve goals in stochastic environments. The focus is on algorithms that learn what actions to take so as to optimize long-term performance. The course covers Markov decision processes, dynamic programming, temporal-difference learning, Monte Carlo learning methods, eligibility traces, the role of neural networks, and the integration of learning and planning. Prerequisites: Basic probability theory and programming skills. A prior course in artificial intelligence is recommended. STATIS 515 and CMPSCI 287 and CMPSCI 383 or permission of instructor. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 689: Machine Learning: Pattern Classification

Professor: Barto, Siegelmann

Machine learning is the study of computational methods that allow a machine to learn, that is, to improve its performance with experience. This is the first in a planned two-course sequence of graduate-level courses in machine learning. We will cover the selected topics of pattern classification and clustering in depth. These are the building blocks for applications in such areas as data-mining and bioinformatics, and they provide a sound basis for acquiring knowledge of the field of machine learning. Topics include decision trees, Bayesian decision theory, maximum-likelihood and Bayesian estimation, linear discriminant functions, support vector machines, multi-layer neural networks, density estimation, and clustering techniques. The class is recommended for students interested in artificial intelligence and machine learning, and is open to students in other fields who have sufficient mathematical maturity. We will assume very little previous knowledge but intend to build deep understanding during the semester. There will be reading assignments, written exercises, programming exercises, a midterm, and a final exam. The programming exercises will be components of a semester-long project in which different techniques are applied to challenging realistic problems. Prerequisites: basic probability and linear algebra; computer programming ability. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 691F: Seminar - Cyberlaw

Professor: Rissland

Cyberlaw--the law of computers--is an area of exploding interest and emerging legal problems. In this seminar, we will explore several selected topics in this fast-moving area. We will begin with discussion of selected topics in constitutional law concerning the First Amendment (e.g., free speech) and the Fourth Amendment (e.g., warrantless search and seizure). Next, we will sample some of the on-going controversies such as those concerning privacy. Each topic will involve reading of primary sources, such as appellate case opinions, as well as commentaries on them, such as articles from the computer science, legal, and popular media. Each participant will be responsible for working up one topic in depth for presentation and discussion. We will enlist the expertise of participants to inform our discussions. For instance, a participant well-versed in the area of computer networks might discuss problems of security and privacy in the context of a networked environment, or a participant well-versed in constitutional law might discuss the broad doctrines of current First Amendment law and their relevance in the context of the internet. Permission of the instructor is required. For graduate students or advanced undergraduates. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 691F(691X): Programming Languages

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CMPSCI 691G: Seminar - Computer Networking

Professor: Kurose

CMPSCI 691O: Seminar - Tools for Explanatory and Tutoring Systems

Professor: Woolf

This seminar examines recent work in explanatory and tutoring systems. We will explore research issues in: Collaboratory Environments, Dialogue Systems, Machine Learning, Teaching Strategies Simulators, Authoring Tools and User Models. The objective of the course is to stimulate awareness of research issues and to promote sound analytic and design skills as they pertain to building knowledge representations and control strategies. Relevant topics and applications will be presented through readings in the recent literature. Each student will prepare written critiques of each paper, lead several in-class discussions and prepare appropriate questions about the research. Several working systems will be available for hands-on critique. Readings for the course are contained in several bound volumes of articles and technical reports available in the main CMPSCI office. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 691P: Advanced Software Engineering: Analysis and Evaluation

Professor: Berger

Modern software systems are brittle. Unanticipated workloads, like "the Slashdot effect", bring most applications to their knees. In this seminar, we'll examine systems-based approaches to making robust software that performs well regardless of workload, architecture, or data access patterns.

CMPSCI 691R(673): Performance Evaluation

Professor: Towsley

This course provides an introduction to the tools and techniques needed to construct and analyze performance models of systems such as computer systems, communication networks, and manufacturing systems. The course covers discrete and continuous time Markov chain models, queues in isolation, queueing networks, and approximate techniques. Several in-depth modeling case studies will be drawn from the areas of computer architecture, parallel and distributed systems, and networks. Course Requirements:Written assignments, one midterm and one final exam. Prerequisites: Proof of a previous undergraduate-level course in probability is REQUIRED. Familiarity with a high-level programming language such as C, PASCAL, FORTAN, or PL/I is recommended. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 701: Advanced Topics in Computer Science

Professor: Immerman

This is a 6 credit reading course corresponding to the master s project. The official instructor is the GPD although the student does the work with and is evaluated by the readers of his or her master s project.

CMPSCI 791F: Resource Bounded Reasoning

Professor: Zilberstein, Lesser

A central problem in artificial intelligence is how to develop computational models that allow decision-support systems or autonomous agents to react to a situation after performing the right amount of deliberation. Frequently, the complexity of problem solving makes it beneficial to use approximate solutions rather than try to compute the optimal answer. This seminar explores recently developed techniques to optimize the value of computation by replacing the basic components of a system with flexible methods that allow small quantities of computational resources, such as time, memory or information, to be traded for gains in the value of the results. The other aspect of resource-bounded systems is the ability to monitor progress and control the tradeoffs offered by the problem solver. Topics to be covered include: computational tradeoffs in inference, planning, and search; representation and measurement of computational tradeoffs; dependency of performance on problem instances; anytime algorithms and flexible computation; strategies for allocating resources among reasoning subproblems; myopic and non-myopic control; partitioning resources between meta-level and object-level reasoning; and applications of resource-bounded systems.

CMPSCI 791H: Language Modelling

Professor: Croft, Allan

Language modelling has recently become a major focus for research in information retrieval. In this seminar we will read and discuss papers covering new developments in that area. Prerequiste: CMPSCI 646 or equivalent. 3 Credits.

CMPSCI 791I: Advanced Topics in Agent and Multimedia Agent Systems

Professor:

Description not on file.

CMPSCI 791K: Seminar - High Performance Memory Systems

Professor: Weems

In this seminar we explore current hot topics in improving the performance of memory. While processor speeds are steadily increasing, the performance of memory is not proceeding at the same pace. The widening gap is requiring a reexamination of how we structure memory hardware and how we manage it in software. We will read a set of articles about novel memory systems, including novel hierarchies, new cache mechanisms, intelligent memory controllers, compiler optimizations, and high performance disk systems. Participants will prepare presentations of papers in two-person teams, and lead class discussions. Semester research project with a final paper written in the form of a grant proposal showing preliminary results. Papers will be evaluated by the class acting as a grant review panel. As a side benefit, participants will learn about the grant proposal preparation and review process.

CMPSCI 891M: Theory of Computation

Professor: Barrington

The theory seminar is a weekly meeting in which topics of interest in the theory of computation - broadly construed - are presented. This is sometimes new research by visitors or local people. It is sometimes work in progress, and it is sometimes recent material of others that some of us present in order to learn and share.

CMPSCI 899: PhD Dissertation

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CMPSCI H01: Honors Colloquium for CMPSCI 201

Professor: Verts

One or more of the course topics are explored in more depth than is possible in the regular CMPSCI classes. Readings are assigned and discussed in once-a-week meetings. Students are assigned projects using an Intel I86 based computer, such as the IBM PC, that require application of concepts discussed in the weekly meetings and in the CMPSCI 201 lectures. Grades are based on written reports, participation in discussions, and the application of concepts in the projects. 1 credit.

CMPSCI H02: Honors Colloquium for CMPSCI 320

Professor: Clarke

In this course, students learn and gain practical experience with software engineering principles and techniques. The practical experience centers on a semester-long team project in which a software development project is carried through all the stages of the software life cycle. Honors students will be expected to assume responsibility for some of the more complex aspects of the project as well as to study more advanced concepts. 1 credit.

CMPSCI H03: Honors Colloquium for CMPSCI 445

Professor: Wileden

Practical issues of database design and implementation. Students will substantially extend a project that is part of the CMPSCI 445 class. Where appropriate, students will browse and discuss current related research. Individual projects and group discussion are the criteria for grading/evaluation. 1 credit.

CMPSCI H04: Honors Colloquium for CMPSCI 521

Professor: Adrion

The Honors section will meet with the instructor one hour per week to conduct additional readings in the area of programming languages. Programming projects are also possible if student interest allows. 1 credit.

CMPSCI H05: Honors Colloquium for CMPSCI 535

Professor: Weems

The honors section of CMPSCI 535 provides an opportunity for University Honors students enrolled in the class to take a deeper look at some aspect of computer architecture or its underlying technology. The specific choice of topics is agreed upon by the instructor and student on an individual basis. Students may choose to explore the history of some aspect of architecture or technology, look at market influences on the science and engineering of computer hardware, experiment with a novel computer design through simulation, conduct a series of in-depth readings leading to a semester thesis, or other suitable work done under regular consultation with the instructor. Recommended for Juniors, Seniors; Majors. 1 credit.

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