Notes to improve homework assignments in CS5244 and to make them a little
easier to grade.
Add to those homework assignments that were provided in the Java(tm) course
-- make each homework build on the one that came before. Since homeworks are
additive, the homeworks are more thematic
Articulate specific requirements for homework assignments in standard
format
Provide detailed testing and grading criteria
Provide test script, where possible -- demonstrate exception handling and
basic functionality
Require use of a coding standard
Have students collect performance data regarding algorithms used and
communications approaches used
Describe rules for submitting homework -- what files are included in the
submission and how they should be arranged (DO NOT SUBMIT SCREEN SHOTS or
other large files)
Emphasize importance of file naming conventions. Don't use packages!
Describe submission format (directory structure, what is in .jar file and
what is not, and so on)
Provide sample UI
Make the homework assignments a running theme -- have each assignment
directly build on the previous one (with the exception of topics such as
applets and servlets). This should help tie all the work together. Not all
homeworks would have equal weight; interim "looks" at functionality
could be simple checks to make sure progress is being made.
Provide several good examples of a well-documented program. Pay particular
attention to javadoc requirements.
