Computer Science Course Descriptions for Spring of 2008

CMPSCI 105: Computer Literacy (R2)

Professor: Verts, Kaboli

Microcomputers are now used widely 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, software, and mathematical aspects of computers. 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. There are optional lab times set up for students who do not have the proper equipment available to them. 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 120: Introduction to Problem Solving with the Internet (R2)

Professor: Verts

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: Learned-Miller, Allen

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 7 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. Use of computer is required. Prerequisite: R1. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 123(191B): Introduction to JAVA II

Professor: Lehnert

CMPSCI 191B (123) is a programming course in Java for students who have previous programming experience in Java, C or C++. Students will be introduced to a variety of advanced topics such as inheritance, polymorphism, interface design, threads, and design patterns. Object-oriented concepts will be covered in great detail, but 123 assumes general familiarity with basic programming concepts such as arithmetic operators, boolean operators, conditional control structures, iterative control structures, and arrays. Students will have an opportunity to strengthen object-oriented programming skills through a series of required programming projects. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 187: Programming with Data Structures (R2)

Professor: Moll, Wolfe

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 123 (191B) (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 196A: Independent Study - Teaching Assistant for CMPSCI 120

Professor: Verts

CMPSCI 197C: Special Topics - Programming in C++

Professor: Banerjee

A brief introduction to the C++ programming language for students with a good working knowledge of Java. Students are expected to have Edlab accounts. Prerequisites: CMPSCI 121 and 187 or permission of instructor. Runs for 7 weeks. 1 credit.

CMPSCI 201: Architecture and Assembly Language (E)

Professor: Ganesan

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, midterm exam, and a final exam. Prerequisite: CMPSCI 187 or ECE 242 or equivalent. 4 credits.

CMPSCI 240(291B): Reasoning About Uncertainty

Professor: Barrington

Development of mathematical reasoning skills for problems that involve uncertainty. Each concept will be illustrated by everyday, real-world examples and demonstrated through discussion and homework exercises, some of which will include programming. Graph definitions, counting, and basic probability (lottery games, poker hands). Mean, variance, normal and binomial distributions, statistical inference (analysis of baseball statistics). Brute-force exact calculation of probability, estimation of probability by Monte Carlo simulation (Texas Hold'em). Independence, conditional probability, Bayes' rule (medical and legal decision-making). Vectors and vector arithmetic, pattern classification (Spam filters). Matrices and matrix arithmetic, Path/Matrix Theorem, Markov processes, Markov decision processses (Backgammon and other games). This is an experimental version of a core foundations course planned for the new curriculum. Current students may use it to fill the "math elective" requirement, which could then allow a math course to be used as an elective. Prerequisite: CMPSCI 187 and MATH 132. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 250: Introduction to Computation (E)

Professor: Constantine

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. Basic graph theory. Finite-state machines, regular languages, nondeterministic finite automata, Kleene's Theorem. Problem sets, 2 midterm exams, timed final. Corequisite: MATH 132/136 or equivalent. Prerequisite: MATH 131 and (CMPSCI 187 or ECE 242). CS ENG majors may take CMPSCI 250 with ECE 242. Contact your Department Advisor. 4 credits.

CMPSCI 287: Programming Language Paradigms

Professor: Lehnert, Kirlin

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" that exhibit behavior. Prerequisite: CMPSCI 187 or ECE 242. Corequisites: CMPSCI 250 and MATH 132. 4 credits.

CMPSCI 305: Social Issues in Computing

Professor: 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: Sitaraman

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. 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 Pascal or C (or some other closely related language). Prerequisite: CMPSCI 250 or MATH 455. 4 credits.

CMPSCI 320: Introduction to Software Engineering

Professor: Fisher

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 stagesof 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. Several quizzes, major term project. Prerequisite: CMPSCI 287. 4 credits.

CMPSCI 377: Operating Systems

Professor: Corner

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 C/C++, 3 exams, 6 or more written homeworks. Prior experience with C/C++ is helpful, but not required. Prerequisites: CMPSCI 187 and (CMPSCI 201 or ECE 232). 4 credits.

CMPSCI 383: Artificial Intelligence

Professor: Zilberstein

Introduction to techniques for building intelligent systems. Problem solving, state-space representation, heuristic search techniques, game playing, knowledge representation, logical reasoning, planning, reasoning under uncertainty, and machine learning. The course can be taken as part of the core CS program, as a grounding for further study in AI, or to gain familiarity with AI methods for application in other fields. Prerequisites: CMPSCI 250 and CMPSCI 287 and CMPSCI 311. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 391F: Seminar - Fundamentals of Graphic Communication

Professor: Woolf

This course provides an understanding of computer-based design and multimedia production. Basic concepts in the areas of graphic design, animation, video editing and object-oriented programming will be covered preparing students for more advanced studies in 2D and 3D animation and in multimedia programming. Course work consists mainly of several student projects, built incrementally as several smaller sub-projects. Each student s project will be presented via the World Wide Web and discussed in class. Students interaction is encouraged through peer reviews and in-class exercises. Topics include HTML, Cascading Style Sheets (CSS), file transfer, designing and drawing characters, image formats/image compression for the web, modeling and animation. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 397B: Special Topics - Three-Dimensional Animation and Digital Editing

Professor: Woolf

This seminar is dedicated to the production of high quality 3-dimensional computer modles 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. We focus on development of humanoid characters. Each student will design his/her own character and lectures and homework will support students to model faces and bodies. Modeling topics include designing, joints, creating chains with constraints and producing realistic facial movement. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 397D: Special Topics - Interactive Web Animation

Professor: Woolf, Cook, Cook

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 or 391S; CMPSCI 551 and CMPSCI 552 preferred. Permission of instructor is required. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 397E: Special Topics - Character Animation

Professor: Woolf

This class focuses exclusively on character animation techniques. Animation topics include action andpose, timing, overlap, pacing, and simulating and exaggerating physical laws. Constraints will be used to create animation and lipsync. Voice tracks will be used to simulate speech. Student will create their own final project or work in a small team. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 401: Formal Language Theory

Professor: Barrington

The course will introduce the abstract branch of Computer Science known as Computation Theory, via "big ideas" that underlie the field. The course will focus on: [1] The Theory of Finite Automata (What are the capabilities and limitations of finite-state transition systems?); [2] Computability Theory (What are the ultimate limitations of digital computing systems?); [3] Complexity Theory (Abstractly, this is Computability Theory with "within given resource bounds" [e.g., time, memory] replacing "ultimate.") The treatment of Finite Automata will culminate in the seminal Kleene-Myhill and Myhill-Nerode characterization theorems. The treatment of Computability Theory will lead through proofs of noncomputability to the sweeping Rice-Myhill-Shapiro Theorem. The treatment of Complexity Theory will develop the theory of problem reductions, leading to the Cook-Levin Theorem and NP-Completeness. PREREQUISITE: CMPSCI 250 and 311, or their equivalents. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 403: Introduction to Robotics: Mechanics, Dynamics, and Control

Professor: ** Section Deleted

This class covers theoretical and practical methods in the context of mobile robotics. These methods and concepts will tell you how robotic hardware works, how to make a robot move, how to localize in an unknown environment, how to build maps during exploration, and much more. The class focuses on lab exercises on real mobile robots but at the same time will cover in an applied fashion concepts from kinematics, dynamics, control, probability, motion planning, computer vision, and AI. Prerequisites: calculus, linear algebra, and programming skills. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 445: Information Systems

Professor: Diao

An introduction to database systems. The course is primarily concerned with the relational data model and its practical application in relational database systems. Topics include structured query language (SQL), entity-relationship modeling, normalization theory, physical data organization and indexing, query processing, query optimization, and transaction management. Database security is also addressed. Prerequisite: CMPSCI 287. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 453: Computer Networks

Professor: Venkataramani

This course provides an introduction to fundamental concepts in the design and implementation of computer communication networks, their protocols, and applications. Topics to be covered include: layered network architectures, applications, network programming interfaces (e.g., sockets), transport, congestion, routing, and data link protocols, local area networks, emerging high-speed networks, network management, and network security. Examples will be drawn primarily from the Internet (e.g., TCP, UDP, and IP) protocol suite. There will be written assignments, programming assignments (in C), one midterm, and a final exam. Prerequisites: A rudimentary understanding of computer architecture and operating systems, while not required, would be helpful. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 491CC: Seminar - Advanced Digital Forensics

Professor: Levine

This course offers an advanced study of forensic investigation of digital devices. Students are expected to have an understanding of basic concepts of digital forensics. The main tasks will be student led and include: design, programming, and validation of programs for recovering or harvesting evidence; reading, presentation, and discussion of recent digital forensics research; practical experience in digital forensics investigation; discussion of relevant laws and court decisions. Students will lead discussions and presentations of these topics and activities. The prerequisite is a course in digital forensics or permission of instructor. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 491K: Seminar - Advanced Image Synthesis

Professor: Wang

This course provides a broad overview of the theory and practice of computer graphics. Topics include image and signal processing, light fields, camera and display systems, reflection models, global illumination rendering, radiosity, monte carlo ray tracing, etc. Previous experience with introductory computer graphics preferred but not required. Prerequisite of MATH 235 with a grade of C or better. Knowledge of basic linear algebra required; experience with C or C++ preferred. 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 553(591U): Interactive Web Animation

Professor: Woolf, Cook, Cook

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 591D: Seminar - Applied Cryptography

Professor: Fu

Applied cryptography spans many disciplines including computer systems, computation, mathematics, and law. This experimental course aims to teach students both the theoretical foundations of cryptography and the humility of building practical cryptographic systems. Topics will include computational indistinguishability, cryptographic attacks, applications of cryptography, and advanced topics in block ciphers, hash functions, and public key cryptography. Students will be evaluated based on final group projects, class participation, problem sets with hands-on labs, and quizzes. Prerequisites: CMPSCI 311 and CMPSCI 377. Prior experience with number theory is recommended. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 591F: Seminar - Software Engineering Management Practicum

Professor: Fisher

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 591FF: Seminar - Designing an Exciting Course Project

Professor: Moss

We are in the process of developing a new course (tentatively numbered 291A) that will build on the skills acquired in the introductory course sequence (up through data structures), preparing students to do substantial work with large real bodies of code. The new course needs a really appealing project that will be fun for the students while meeting the teaching objectives. Students taking this seminar will collaborate with faculty in designing, building, and test driving the project. Sample project ideas we have thought of include: building a version of Skype; building a simulation/animation environment; doing a maps plus live data stream mash up (e.g., show where PVTA buses are on their routes); etc. We are looking for good ideas plus energetic prototype building. The topics of 291A (the course we are targeting) include: using an IDE (Eclipse); design patterns and a design notation (UML); extreme programming and unit testing (junit); repositories (cvs/svn); code reading and code refactoring; build tools (ant); etc. Expertise in some or all of these would be helpful, but is not mandatory; facility with Java is necessary. Come with ideas and an eagerness to collaborate and have fun improving our undergraduates' experience! Grading will be based on size and quality of contribution to the overall effort, including participation and working well as a member of the team. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 591G: Seminar - Computer Networking Lab

Professor: Venkataramani

In this course, students will learn how to put "principles into practice," in a hands-on-networking lab course. The course will cover router and end-system labs in the areas of Single Segment IP Networks, Multiple Segment IP Networks and Static Routing, Dynamic Routing Protocols (RIP, OSPF and BGP), LAN switching, Transport Layer Protocols: UDP and TCP, NAT, DHCP, DNS, and SNMP. The labs are due at a rate of roughly one lab per week. A short pre-lab Q&A, as well as lab writeups, are required for each lab. These labs will be done in a networked lab setting consisting of 4 Cisco2600-family routers, 4 hubs, and 4 Linux hosts. The textbook is Mastering Networks: An Internet Lab Manual by Jorg Lieberherr, University of Virginia; Magda El Zarki, University of California, Irvine. ISBN: 0-201-78134-4. Publisher: Addison-Wesley. 3 credits.

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 (591_)--3D Animation and Digital Editing or equivalent experience and a personal computer. 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 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, transparency, 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. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 601: Computation Theory

Professor: Immerman

An in-depth introduction to the main models and concepts of the mathematical theory of computation, including: Computability: What problems can be solved in principle? How might you prove that a problem can't be solved? Complexity: What problems can be solved within given resource constraints? How do constraints on different resources (e.g., time, space, or parallel time) relate? Logic: What are the best ways to formally specify a problem, and how do these specifications relate to the difficulty of the problem? Prerequisites: Undergraduate-level courses in discrete mathematics (e.g., CMPSCI 250) and analysis of algorithms (e.g., CMPSCI 311 or better yet 611), plus additional mathematical maturity (e.g., CMPSCI 611, A's in 250 or 311, or other mathematical background). Previous background in formal languages (e.g., CMPSCI 401) is quite desirable. Course requirements: about eight problem sets, timed midterm and final. Also open to qualified undergraduates. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 603: Robotics

Professor: Grupen

In addtion to traditions rooted in mechanics and dynamics, geometrical reasoning, and artificial intelligence, the study of robot systems is growing to include many issues traditionally part of the computing sciences; distributed and adaptive control, architecture, software engineering, real-time systems, information processing and learning. In robotics, processing and its relationship to mechanical function are dependent on the target platform and the world in which it is situated. Designing an embedded computational system for sensory and motor processes requires that designers appreciate and understand all of these disciplines. This course is concerned with the design and analysis of adaptive, closed-loop physical systems. The focus will be sensory and motor systems that interpret and manipulate their environments. Toward this end, we will study mechanisms (kinematics and dynamics), actuators, sensors (with a focus on active vision), signal processing, associative memory, feedback control theory, supervised and unsupervised learning, and task planning. Interesting examples of integrated sensory, motor, and computational systems can be found in nature, so occassionally we will relate the subject matter to biological systems. Students willexperiment with system identification and control, image processing, path planning, and learning on simulated platforms to reinforce the material presented in class. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 620: Advanced Software Engineering: Synthesis and Development

Professor: Osterweil

This course examines the varied approaches to the development of computer software. The course focuses on using software processes to produce software products. We examine various ideas about how software products should be structured and function. We then examine how software processes serve as vehicles for manufacturing such products. But we also view the processes as manufactured artifacts as well. A key perspective of the course is to apply technologies for manufacturing software products to the manufacture of the processes that make these products. This approach facilitates the direct study of different software development approaches, and a more direct study of their effects on the products they produce. This approach will be used by students, who will examine a representative range of current software development processes by creating and analyzing these software processes as part of their coursework. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 630(691F): Programming Languages

Professor: Wileden

This course undertakes a detailed examination of the fundamental principles underlying the design and implementation of modern programming languages. We address a wide range of programming language concepts and issues from both a practical and a theoretical perspective. Special attention is given to type systems and type checking, since these are central to all subsequent developments. We also examine other important contemporary language features such as object orientation, modularity, polymorphism and concurrency. While the predominant paradigm for contemporary programming languages -- the imperative, object-oriented paradigm -- is our primary focus, and the functional paradigm is our secondary focus, we will place special emphasis on web-programming as a source of examples and a basis for assignments and projects. Homework problems, programming exercises and projects reinforce the material covered in lectures and readings. Prerequisites: Graduate standing or permission of instructor. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 645: Database Design and Implementation

Professor: Miklau

This course covers the design and implementation of traditional relational database systems and advanced data management systems. The course will treat fundamental principles of databases: the relational model, conceptual design, query languages, and selected theoretical topics. We also cover core database implementation issues including storage and indexing, query processing and optimization, as well as transaction management, concurrency, and recovery. Additional topics will address the challenges of modern Internet-based data management. These include XML data management, information integration, incomplete and probabilistic databases, and database security. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 673(691X): Performance Evaluation

Professor: Towsley

Course Description not on file. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 677: Operating Systems

Professor: Shenoy

This course provides an in-depth examination of principles of distributed operating systems. Covered topics include processes and threads, concurrent programming, distributed interprocess communication, distributed process scheduling, shared virtual memory, distributed file systems. In-depth examples will be taken from current operating systems such as UNIX and MACH. Some coverage of operating system principles for multiprocessors will also be included. Prerequisites: The student should be able to easily program in a high-level language such as C, have had a course on data structures, be familiar with elements of computer architecture and have had previous exposure to the operating system concepts of processes, virtual memory, and scheduling. A previous course on uniprocessor operating systems (e.g., CMPSCI 377) will be helpful but not required. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 681(691V): Multiagent Systems

Professor: Lesser

The next generation of complex computer systems will involve large collections of intelligent, heterogeneous agents (both human and machine) working cooperatively and competitively over wide-area distributed processing networks. These networks will be highly reliable in the face of incomplete and possibly inconsistent information and processor failure, will operate in a satisficing mode in which they do the best with available information, will negotiate among themselves to resolve differences, will exploit organizational structuring when there are large numbers of agents, and will reorganize themselves both over the shortterm and longterm, based on the capabilities of the evolving agent set and environment. This course will focus on the intellectual ideas and techniques, both heuristic and formal, involved in building such systems, and the agents that populate them. We will also discuss a number of specific application systems in the areas of distributed situation assessment, distributed planning and resource allocation, cooperative information gathering, concurrent design, electronic commerce, etc., that provide concrete examples. The underlying software architecture that supports the building of such systems will also be analyzed. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 691AB: Seminar - Learning Casual Models

Professor: Jensen

Course Description not on file. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 691DD: Seminar - Research Methods

Professor: Jensen

This course introduces graduate students to basic ideas about conducting a personal research program. Students will learn basic methods for activities such as reading technical papers, selecting research topics, devising research questions, planning research, analyzing experimental results, modeling and simulating computational phenomena, and synthesizing broader theories. The course will be structured around three activities: lectures on basic concepts of research strategy and techniques, discussions of technical papers, and preparation and review of written assignments. Significant reading, reviewing, and writing will be required, and students will be expected to participate actively in class discussions. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 691MM: Seminar - Advanced Image Synthesis

Professor: Wang

This course provides a broad overview of the theory and practice of computer graphics. Topics include image and signal processing, light fields, camera and display systems, reflection models, global illumination rendering, radiosity, monte carlo ray tracing, etc. Previous experience with introductory computer graphics preferred but not required. Knowledge of basic linear algebra required; experience with C or C++ preferred. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 691NN: Seminar - Hot Topics in Programming Languages

Professor: Berger

This graduate seminar course will cover recent developments in programming languages, examining the latest research papers from top programming languages and systems conferences. Topics of interest include bug detection and correction, domain-specific languages, and emerging topics like concurrency on multicore architectures. 1-3 credits.

CMPSCI 691RR: Seminar - Cooperative Networking

Professor: Towsley, Goeckel

Wireless networks, unlike wireline networks rely on the cooperation of all of the nodes in order to provide seamless end-to-end data transfer. First generation wireless networks, however, have relied on very simple forms of cooperation that depend very little on the computational and communication capabilities available to the nodes. This is because first generation networks are based on the wireline unicast store and forward paradigm. This seminar will go beyond this approach to explore a wide variety of techniques to cooperative networking. These will include: * establishment of cooperative links at the physical layer, links implemented by multiple nodes intentionally placing signals simultaneously in the same channel * cooperative use of in network coding so as to more efficently use bandwidth resources * establishment of cooperative swarming algorithms at the MAC and the routing layers to provide robustness and more efficient use of bandwidth * incentive mechanisms to ensure cooperation. This seminar will cover the fundamental physical layer work and emerging wireless network research on these topics, with the goal of bringing participants up to the current state of the art and assisting them in the development of research ideas in this area. This seminar is offered for one credit or three credits. One credit requires a class presentation while three credits requires in addition a class project. Last, this seminar will include participants from UMass-Lowell and Federal University of Rio de Janeiro. 1-3 credits.

CMPSCI 691SS: Seminar - Satisfiability Solvers and Their Applications

Professor: Moss

Satisfiability (SAT) solvers are now widely available and have growing applications to a wide-range of computer science problems. In this seminar we will explore the state of the art in solver technology and also of applications to fields of interest, particularly computer architecture and software verification. We may also look at related problems such as Max-SAT and quantified boolean formulae. Students will offer concise presentation and critique of papers drawn from the literature. Students will also undertake projects in either extending a solver or applying one to a problem of their choosing. Grades will be based on quality of participation and on the project work. There are no particular prerequisites for this seminar beyond a basic appreciation of proof techniques and a desire to learn about these approaches to automated verification and optimization. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 691UN: Seminar - Underwater Networking and Sensing

Professor: Kurose, Levine, Shenoy

A shift is underway in the fields of oceanic and environmental research towards mobile sensornets with mixed RF-acoustic links and mobile platforms over expansive geographic ranges. These fields are seeing an increasingly central role for sensors and sensornets, disruption-tolerant networking, acoustic communications, and autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs). We will investigate recent works in these topics that are enabling this change in the context of scenarios that are littoral, at the water's surface, at the sub-surface, and at the water's bottom, for both stationary and mobile devices. The seminar will be a joint effort with research partners from Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, UMass Lowell, and UMass Dartmouth. 1 credit.

CMPSCI 701: Advanced Computer Science Topics

Professor: Allan

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 745: Advanced Topics in Database Systems: Networked Data Management

Professor: ** Section Deleted

Course Description not on file. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 791U: Seminar - Advanced Topics in Information Retrieval

Professor: Allan

A seminar in which students will read, present, and discuss research papers on recent and important topics in Information Retrieval. Students are expected to lead one or more discussions throughout the semester. 3 credits.

CMPSCI 891M: Theory of Computation

Professor: Immerman

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. May be repeated for credit up to 6 times. 1 credit.

CMPSCI 899: PhD Dissertation

Professor: Staff

CMPSCI H01: Honors Colloquium for CMPSCI 201

Professor: Ganesan

Several topics are explored in more depth than is possible in the CMPSCI 201 lectures and discussions. Assigned readings are explored in the colloquium's weekly meeting. Students do one or more projects using an Intel I86 based computer, such as the IBM PC. These projects require application of the material discussed in both CMPSCI 201 and the colloquium. Students can choose their own projects, with the instructor's approval. A significant degree of independent effort on the students part is expected. Grades are based on written reports, participation in H01 discussions, and the application of the concepts studied by colloquium in the design and implementaion of the projects. Registration in CMPSCI 201 is required. 1 credit

CMPSCI H03: Honors Colloquium for CMPSCI 320

Professor: Fisher

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 H07: Honors Colloquium for CMPSCI 401

Professor: Barrington

Students will study additional topics in computability and complexity, through discussions (1 hour/week with professor), readings, and exercises. Specific topics will depend on student interest but may include algebraic automata theory, alternate models of computability, and interactive proofs. 1 credit.

CMPSCI H08: Honors Colloquium for CMPSCI 383

Professor: Zilberstein

Students will study additional topics in computability and complexity, through discussions (1 hour/week with professor), readings, and exercises. Specific topics will depend on student interest but may include algebraic automata theory, alternate models of computability, and interactive proofs. 1 credit.

CMPSCI H15: Honors Colloquium for CMPSCI 121

Professor: ** Section Deleted

CMPSCI 121 Honors Section will cover special topics covering some major ideas and applications of computer science, including: bioinformatics, natural language processing, computational complexity, compilers, graphics, computer vision, cryptography, robotics, and search. There will be four homework assignments (some written exercises, some programming). No previous program experience required. 1 credit.

Last automatic generation: 3/26/2008 at 10:05:42 AM