nan Bhagyavati

Modeling a grid-based problem solving environment for mobile devices

The paradigm of grid computing has been successfully applied in the domain of computationally-intensive applications supporting scientific research using server-class computers interconnected by wired network. The users of the existing and growing number of wireless mobile devices often demand more computational power than their devices can currently provide. We propose using the computational grid paradigm to build a problem-solving environment for wireless mobile devices.

Wireless security techniques: an overview

This paper provides a survey of the different techniques that can be used to strengthen security in wireless local area networks (WLANs). The first generation of WLANs were deployed by small businesses and individuals at homes. The second generation of WLAN products are more secure than those of the first generation. Second generation broadband wireless networks are considered to be enterprise-level networks providing more capacity and coverage than first generation home- and small business-based WLANs. However, security remains the most critical area of concern in both first generation and second generation WLANs. In this paper, we provide a survey of second generation broadband WLANs technologies and focus on security techniques.

A collaborative problem-solving framework for mobile devices

The explosive growth in the number of mobile devices such as Internet-enabled cellular phones, wireless handheld devices, wireless laptops, and tablet PCs has driven the corresponding growth in applications for mobile computing. These applications usually belong to one of two classes: collaborative applications and individual application. While collaborative applications require several mobile devices to work together and include peer-to-peer computing and grid computing, individual applications are local to the mobile device and its user. In this paper, we present a framework that allows mobile devices to collaboratively work on a computationally-expensive problem. Such a problem is decomposed into smaller tasks and distributed across other mobile devices willing to share their computational power with others. This framework is based on the paradigm of grid computing applied to the domain of wireless mobile devices. This paper presents our current implementation of the framework architecture and simulation of its functionality. Also, we focus on the issues of mobility, QoS and network stability and their effect on the performance of our collaborative problem-solving framework.

Using asynchronous discussions to enhance student participation in CS courses

As Computer Science (CS) educators, we are involved in teaching a variety of undergraduate and graduate courses such as database management systems, networking, software development and web development courses. In addition to the traditional classroom environment, we use online and blended teaching methods to enhance student participation and improve the achievement of learning objectives. Typical online supplements to classroom instruction include posting homework, links to external resources, lecture notes and exams online. Asynchronous discussions and synchronous chat sessions provide additional forums outside the classroom for strengthening interaction and enriching the learning experience for students. This paper focuses on how asynchronous discussions can be used to enhance student participation in CS courses; increased participation leads to learning effectiveness, rich involvement with the course content, and student satisfaction.

Using a virtual lab to teach an online information assurance program

In this paper, we describe the development and implementation of a virtual computer lab for teaching online information assurance classes. This provides an opportunity for students to do hands-on security assignments. Different approaches to providing students with hands-on security assignments are briefly discussed and examples of several assignments are outlined.

Teaching hands-on computer and information systems security despite limited resources

Visualization and animation have been used to graphically illustrate various concepts in computer science. This paper describes an animated simulator for packet sniffer. The goal of this tool is to provide users with interactive tutorials and simulations to help them better understand the security concept packet sniffer and related computer networks concepts. This tool can be used in an introductory level computer security course or a computer networks course. It can be used by the instructor in the classroom, and can also be used by the students outside the classroom. This tool will be used in our institute and its effectiveness in teaching and learning will be assessed.

Information assurance in the undergraduate curriculum

Information assurance and systems security are important topics that compel the attention of future computer scientists. Typically, undergraduate students in computer science programs today are exposed to these concepts at the end of their education in stand-alone courses on information security. As information assurance (IA) educators, we perceive the need to incorporate IA topics throughout the undergraduate CS curriculum. In this panel, we will first present the goals, challenges, and current state of progress made at our respective institutions. Then we will solicit feedback and suggestions from the audience for better integrating IA topics across the undergraduate curriculum.

Online discussions in computer science courses: how to make them an effective learning tool

This paper discusses the experience of using asynchronous online discussions obtained by a group of faculty teaching graduate computer science courses online. We also discuss a number of advantages of using asynchronous discussions and how they can enrich the learning experience of students. This is followed by a collection of our practices in course management when online discussions are used. The paper is concluded by a case study describing how online discussions were used in a data warehousing course offered to graduate students online.

Incorporating wireless into the computer science curriculum

Due to the increasing popularity of wireless networks, there is an urgent need for professionals who understand and can implement emerging technologies. Although most universities have risen to this challenge by adding wireless topics to their curricula, they have typically integrated wireless concepts into their engineering programs. For example, the Ohio State University offers graduate education in Wireless Engineering. The wireless concepts taught in such curricula include radio engineering, antenna installation, hardware design issues and other engineering subjects [13].Computer Science programs have been slow to incorporate wireless concepts such as programming and applications in their curricula. This paper advocates the adoption of a strong wireless component in computer science curricula in the form of a separate course. The rationale and benefits of such a course are presented, along with an evaluation of an experimental course in wireless networking. Guidelines and recommendations are provided, which can be adopted by other institutions.

First year experiences of NSF REU grant: emerging issues in computer networking

In this paper, we describe our first year experiences of administering the NSF-supported Research Experiences for Undergraduates program award. Emerging issues in computer networking were the main focus of our program, which supported research projects of eight undergraduate students at Columbus State University in the summer of 2004. The main focus of this paper is on the lessons learned for successful future administration of the grant by shining the spotlight on select student projects completed within this program.