Fall 2010
CSS 482 will introduce you to a completely different way of programming, in which you specify rules of behavior, rather than algorithms. This is an especially powerful approach for problems that change often or where solutions involve application of human knowledge, rather than intricate calculations. Since their commercial introduction in the early 1980s, expert systems have undergone tremendous growth, representing the most successful application of artificial intelligence technology. Today, they are used in business, science, engineering, manufacturing, etc. Example applications include: computer configuration, fault diagnosis, computer-aided instruction, data interpretation, planning and prediction, and process control.
This course will have an additional focus on building expert systems applications as part of larger systems, including web-based and enterprise systems. Besides rule-based programming, expert systems operation, and knowledge engineering, topics will include aspects of Java that are useful for developing these systems, such as JavaBeans, serialization, applets, servlets, J2EE, JavaServer Pages, Tomcat, web services, and XML.
Announcements
November 7, 2010: All systems are go for a web app homework assignment. You should have received a pointer to the beta CSS wiki page with instructions for installation of Apache Tomcat in your email. Homework 5 is now live.
October 20, 2010: I have figured out the problem we were having with user input validation in class, and have updated code on the website under "example programs".
October 13, 2010: Homework 2 has been extended to Friday. Homework 3 is still due next Wednesday.
October 12, 2010: The PDF for our course scheduling in-class exercises is now up on this site; see the link on the left.
October 8, 2010: I've updated the description to homework 2 to clarify the first part.
September 29, 2010: Homework 1 is up under "Homework Assignments", and I have fixed the authorization for access to the Jess code so that everyone in the class should be able to get to it. Let me know if you have any problems. Expect guidance (or a script) for improving the installation under Windows so that Jess will be runnable from any directory.
September 20, 2010: The web site is now up-to-date, with a syllabus and schedule for the quarter. if you can, please bring a laptop to class; we will be running this class like a workshop. If you can't bring a laptop, sharing someone else's will be fine, just make sure to take notes and email any necessary files to yourself.
August 27, 2010: Web site update coming soon. Stay tuned for more information about the fall 2010 course update!
