CPE/CSC 581-S09 Computer Support for Knowledge Management Assignments

Types of Assignments

Assignments for the CPE/CSC 581 class consist of exercises that demonstrate some of the advantages and problems of using computers to support knowledge management activities, and examine the usability of knowledge stored on and presented by computers.

I usually make drafts of assignment specifications available before I distribute them in class. It is advisable to look at them early since decisions you make for the early assignments may have implications for the later assignments.

Individual vs. Team Assignments

Unless explicitly stated otherwise, all assignments are individual assignments. Whereas I encourage you to discuss the problems to be solved with classmates, each student has to submit his or her own solution. It is not acceptable to use somebody else's solution as a "blueprint" or "inspiration," or to copy and paste material from other sources, including fellow students. If you use material from other sources (e.g. articles, Web pages, diagrams, screen shots) you need to identify the source.

Distribution of Assignments

Usually paper copies of the assignment will be distributed in class. Electronic versions are available on the class pages; follow the links below, or go through the Class Schedule page.

• Assignment 1: Knowledge OrganizationTools
• Assignment 2: Body of Knowledge
• Assignment 3: Knowledge Presentation and Visualization
• Assignment 4: Knowledge Integration
• Presentation and Paper

Development Tools

Unless explicitly specified in the assignment, you can choose which tools to use for the assignment. If possible, use tools that produce platform- and OS-indepentent results (i.e., not only .exe files).

Submission of Assignments

Unless noted otherwise, assignments should be submitted electronically via BlackBoard. We may also explore the use of a Wiki or a conference management tool for some submissions.

Deadline and Late Submissions

The deadlines are specified on the assignment handout; you can also see the planned deadlines for future assignments on the Class Schedule. Assignments submitted late are subject to a 10% deduction per late business day; no late assignments will be accepted after the solution has been distributed, or discussed in class.

Grading and Return of Assignments

Usually I give points for assignments, not letter grades. All the assignments for a course add up to 100 points, which is then scaled to the contributing factor with respect to the overall grade (e.g. 30%). Alternatively, I may use 100 points per assignment, with a weight factor for each individual assignment.