CSCI373 - An Overview

    

CSCI 373 Overview

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Table of Contents

Course Podcast

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Course Overview

The CSCI 373 Senior Research Seminar is a capstone course designed to equip graduating Computer Science majors with the skills necessary to conduct independent research, communicate technical information effectively, and cultivate a lifelong learning mindset. Unlike a traditional thesis, the course employs a highly structured approach focused on developing a “State of the Field” project. This briefing document will review the main themes and crucial aspects of this seminar based on provided course materials.

Key Themes

  • Becoming a Topic Expert: The course emphasizes becoming the “campus expert” on a chosen computer science topic. Students are expected to delve deeply into their chosen area, conduct thorough research, synthesize information, and articulate their understanding through writing, presentations, and dialogue.
  • Lifelong Learning: The rapidly evolving nature of computer science necessitates continuous learning. The seminar fosters this by encouraging self-directed exploration beyond assigned materials and integrating “Self-teaching Reflections” as recurring assignments.
  • Real-World Experience: The course simulates professional scenarios by offering descriptive rather than prescriptive guidance, encouraging concise writing, emphasizing topic repetition for deeper understanding, and promoting ownership of the research process.
  • Generative AI Integration: Recognizing the transformative potential of AI tools, the course encourages their ethical and responsible use for bootstrapping learning, accelerating content development, and exploring authorship. Choosing a Topic: Choosing the right topic is crucial for success. It should meet five criteria:
    1. Significant Computer Science Component: Requires utilizing computer science knowledge for research.
    2. Sufficient Resources: Availability of high-quality, accessible research materials.
    3. Active Field: Topic is currently relevant and actively researched.
    4. Demonstration Potential: Possibility to create a prototype or conduct an experiment.
    5. Intellectual Substance: Poses an intellectual challenge and allows in-depth exploration.

State of the Field Project Components

The State of the Field (SOTF) project is the core of the seminar, encompassing three interconnected components:

  1. Foundations: Provides a comprehensive overview of key concepts, technologies, and historical developments relevant to the chosen topic. Developed in three phases:
    • Phase A: Preliminary Mental Model: Identifying key concepts and crafting a brief “pitch talk” video.
    • Phase B: Robust Mental Model: Deepening understanding and expanding upon Phase A.
    • Phase C: Establishing Expertise: Narrowing focus, demonstrating in-depth understanding through a 10-minute presentation, and refining the Foundations paper.
  2. Explorations: Showcases practical understanding through either a prototype software tool or a “science fair” experiment. Includes a 3-minute video presentation and a paper update.
  3. Futures: Analyzes and predicts future trends and advancements based on explored knowledge. Incorporated into the final SOTF paper and presentation.

Writing and Presentation Skills

The seminar places a strong emphasis on developing communication skills essential for computer science professionals:

  • Writing: Focuses on concise, clear, and logical writing, avoiding jargon and utilizing a structured approach. The class motto is “Enough words, no more.”
  • Presenting: Students learn to craft engaging narratives, focus content, utilize visual clarity, deliver confidently, and emphasize key takeaways.
  • Dialogue: Active participation in class discussions is crucial. Engaging in thoughtful dialogue, asking insightful questions, and articulating ideas are vital for success.

Generative AI and Academic Integrity

While embracing generative AI tools, the course emphasizes responsible use and academic integrity. Students are responsible for all submitted content, must cite sources appropriately, and are expected to utilize AI tools to enhance learning, not replace it. As the handbook states, “We will embrace generative AI tools in this course. We will take responsibility for the content of our papers and presentations. We use generative AI tools to accelerate learning content, not replace learning.”

Overview Conclusion

The CSCI 373 Senior Research Seminar aims to cultivate well-rounded computer science professionals by fostering deep topic expertise, strong communication skills, and a growth mindset essential for lifelong learning in this dynamic field.

CSCI 373 Senior Research Seminar: A Timeline of Events

This timeline outlines the main events and assignments for the CSCI 373 Senior Research Seminar, based on the provided course materials.

Week 1

  • Course Introduction: Overview of course objectives, expectations, and the State of the Field (SOTF) project.
  • Topic Brainstorming: Students begin brainstorming potential topics, utilizing generative AI tools for exploration.
  • Initial Topic Selection: Students choose a preliminary topic area and approximate scope, considering the five criteria outlined in the FAQ.
  • Self-Teaching Reflections Begin: Students begin submitting weekly reflections on external resources related to computing.

Week 2 - Week 4

  • Foundations Phase A: Preliminary Mental Model:
    • Students identify key concepts within their chosen topic area.
    • Assignment Due: Phase A paper and 30-45 second “pitch talk” video presentation.
    • In-Class Dialogue: Discussion and questions regarding student presentations and progress.

Week 5 - Week 8

  • Foundations Phase B: Robust Mental Model:
    • Students delve deeper into key concepts, building a more comprehensive understanding of their topic.
    • Assignment Due: Phase B paper, expanding upon Phase A and incorporating additional resources.
    • Continued focus on self-teaching and exploration of resources beyond assigned materials.

Week 9 - Week 12

  • Foundations Phase C: Establishing Expertise:
    • Students narrow their focus and develop expertise within a specific aspect of their topic.
    • Assignment Due: Phase C paper, refining previous iterations and demonstrating deeper understanding.
    • Live Presentation: 10-minute presentation showcasing knowledge and expertise.
    • In-Class Dialogue: Q&A session following student presentations.

Week 13 - Week 15

  • Explorations:
    • Students demonstrate their understanding through a practical application:
      • Prototype Tool: Development of a software tool showcasing topic knowledge.
      • Science Fair Experiment: Design and execution of an experiment using existing tools to test hypotheses.
    • Assignment Due: Updated paper incorporating Explorations description, 3-minute video presentation.
    • In-Class Dialogue: Discussion and questions regarding student demonstrations and findings.

Week 16

  • Futures:
    • Students analyze and predict future trends and advancements within their chosen field, supported by evidence.
    • This content is incorporated into the final SOTF paper and presentation.

Finals Week

  • State of the Field (SOTF) Project Due:
    • Final Paper: Comprehensive document encompassing Foundations, Explorations, Futures, and reflection on learning journey.
    • Live Presentation: 12-minute presentation, summarizing key findings and engaging the audience.
    • In-Class Dialogue: Final Q&A session assessing student knowledge and understanding.

Cast of Characters

  • Michael A. Heroux: The author and instructor for the CSCI 373 Senior Research Seminar. He has developed the course handbook and guides students through the process of becoming experts on their chosen topics.

  • Students: The primary actors in this course, actively participating in research, writing, presenting, and engaging in dialogue. They are expected to demonstrate a growth mindset, embrace self-learning, and become knowledgeable experts in their chosen topic areas.

  • Generative AI Tools: Emerging technologies utilized throughout the course to facilitate research, content creation, and exploration of authorship. Students are encouraged to use these tools responsibly and ethically, while maintaining ownership of their work.

  • Experts in the Field: Individuals with specialized knowledge in various areas of computer science, who may be contacted by students for further insights and guidance. Students are encouraged to leverage the expertise of these individuals to enhance their understanding and research.

  • The Audience: Comprised of fellow students, instructors, and potentially individuals from the wider community who attend student presentations. Students are expected to engage their audience effectively, communicating their knowledge clearly and confidently.

CSCI 373 Senior Research Seminar FAQ

How do I choose a topic for my State of the Field project?

Choosing the right topic is crucial for success in this course. Your topic should be something that genuinely interests you and fulfills the following criteria:

  1. Significant Computer Science Component: It should require you to utilize your computer science background for research.
  2. Sufficient Resources: Ensure there are enough high-quality, accessible resources available for research.
  3. Active Field: Choose a topic that is currently relevant and being actively researched within the computer science community.
  4. Demonstration Potential: Can you create a prototype or experiment to showcase your understanding?
  5. Intellectual Substance: The topic should pose an intellectual challenge and allow for in-depth exploration.

Start brainstorming by listing potential topics and use generative AI tools for further exploration. Refine your topic by considering the intersection of a specific technology and its application area. For instance, instead of “artificial intelligence,” consider narrowing it down to “artificial intelligence in recommendation systems.”

What if I can’t find enough resources for my topic?

First, make sure you’ve exhausted all the recommended avenues for research: generative AI tools, YouTube, ACM Digital Library, Web of Science, web search engines, library search engines, inter-library loans, bibliographies, and contacting experts. If you’re still struggling, try the following:

  1. Broaden the Scope: Expand your topic area slightly to encompass related concepts or applications.
  2. Narrow the Scope: Focus on a specific subtopic within your initial area. As you delve deeper, you’ll likely find that narrowing your focus is necessary for a comprehensive analysis.
  3. Switch Topics (Last Resort): If all else fails, and you cannot find adequate resources, consider choosing a different topic.

What if I find too many resources for my topic?

Having too many resources can indicate that your topic is too broad. To address this:

  1. Narrow the Scope: Focus on a specific aspect, application, or technology within your chosen topic area.
  2. Refine Keywords: Use more specific keywords in your searches to filter out irrelevant resources.
  3. Prioritize Resources: Select resources that are most relevant to your narrowed scope and align with your research goals.

What is the role of generative AI tools in this course?

Generative AI tools are valuable resources for this course. We encourage their use for:

  1. Bootstrapping Learning: Explore potential topics, generate summaries of resources, and brainstorm ideas.
  2. Accelerating Content Development: Utilize AI tools to assist in writing and refining your papers, presentations, and prototypes.
  3. Exploring Authorship: Engage in discussions about the evolving meaning of authorship in the context of AI-generated content.

However, it is crucial to remember that:

  1. You are responsible for all content you submit.
  2. AI tools should not replace your own learning and understanding.
  3. Always cite sources appropriately and identify content generated by AI tools.

What are the main components of a State of the Field paper?

Your State of the Field project will consist of three interconnected components:

  1. Foundations: This section lays the groundwork for your research. It provides a comprehensive overview of the key concepts, technologies, and historical developments relevant to your topic.
  2. Explorations: This section showcases your understanding through a practical demonstration. You will either create a prototype tool or design and conduct an experiment that applies your knowledge.
  3. Futures: Building upon your explorations, you will analyze and predict future trends and potential advancements in your chosen field.

What are the key considerations for writing a strong State of the Field paper?

  1. Clear and Concise Writing: Use precise language, avoid jargon, and ensure your writing is accessible to an intelligent but uninformed reader.
  2. Logical Structure: Follow a clear narrative structure. Introduce your topic, build your argument, and provide a strong conclusion that synthesizes your main points.
  3. Thorough Research: Cite a substantial number of credible sources, demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of your topic area.
  4. Original Insights: Go beyond summarizing existing research. Offer your own analysis, interpretations, and predictions based on your findings.

What are the key elements of an effective State of the Field presentation?

  1. Engaging Storytelling: Frame your presentation as a compelling narrative with a clear beginning, middle, and end.
  2. Focused Content: Select a realistic scope and stick to your core message. Avoid overwhelming your audience with too much information.
  3. Visual Clarity: Use slides to complement your spoken words. Utilize visuals, diagrams, and concise text to enhance understanding.
  4. Confident Delivery: Project your voice, maintain eye contact, and engage with your audience.
  5. Key Takeaways: End your presentation with 3-5 key points you want your audience to remember.

How is class participation evaluated in this course?

Active participation in class discussions is crucial for demonstrating your knowledge and understanding. Your ability to engage in thoughtful dialogue, ask insightful questions, and articulate your ideas clearly will significantly contribute to your overall grade. Remember that:

  1. Knowledge is created on the edges. Meaningful discussions push the boundaries of our understanding.
  2. Generative AI cannot replace your ability to articulate and defend your ideas in real-time.
  3. We learn from each other. Your contributions to class discussions enrich the learning experience for everyone.
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