This is a modern introductory course in the fundamental principles of software engineering. The software development process is empirical in nature and not yet predicated on easily quantified and fully confirmed mathematical models. This, in spite of the rapid growth in the volume of software being produced and the almost exponential increase in the size and complexity of the projects addressed, thus compounding the problem. Nevertheless, this course offers a realistic and comprehensive model of the software development process and a useful set of guidelines and principles in order to prepare the student for the responsibilities faced in a contemporary software engineering environment. Recognizing this objective, student participation in a team-oriented term project is a crucial requirement.
The midterm exam will take place one week before spring break. The format for this exam, e.g., whether open or closed book, in-class or take-home, will be decided and announced one week in advance.
Assignment of students to various group tasks relating to the term project will be made early in the semester. Group term project final reports relating to the SDS are due on the scheduled final exam date (in lieu of a final examination).