2009-2010 CMPS Program Review

Transcription

WESTERN NEW MEXICO UNIVERSITY
PROGRAM REVIEW AND EVALUATION
Program:
Computer Science
Dept/School/College: Department of Mathematics and Computer Science
Western New Mexico University
Date Forwarded:
October 29, 2013
Faculty involved in Program Review:
Doug Medin, Professor
Gerald Burgess, Associate Professor
Dr. Virginia Huegel, Professor
DeAnne Miller, Professor
Program review document prepared by:
Doug Medin, Professor
Gerald Burgess, Associate Professor
Dr. Virginia Huegel, Professor
Date: Submitted to C & I ___________________
Submitted to VPAA ___________________
Discussed with Faculty in Department ______________
Program __________________________
2009-2010 Program Review
Computer Science Page 2
COMPUTER SCIENCE
2009-2010 PROGRAM REVIEW
OVERVIEW
A. Introduction to the Department and Discipline
The Computer Science Discipline is an integral part of the Department of Mathematics and
Computer Science. The Computer Science discipline strives to meet the needs of students and
business and industry. A typical graduate will either apply for graduate school or apply for
employment in the capacity of a computer programmer or database administrator. Members of the
discipline strive to keep the program abreast of an industry that is constantly changing. As a result,
courses (and sometimes the entire program) are constantly undergoing modification. We currently
have a National Science Foundation (NSF) grant pending. This grant is a collaboration among Auburn
University, Albany State University, and Western New Mexico University. If we are awarded this
grant, our curriculum will expand to include courses in Information Assurance. These courses will be
of interest to Computer Science, Management Information Systems, and possibly MAIS students.
One workshop was offered during the Summer 2009 semester. This collaboration will be challenging
because of the distance between our campuses. It is probably the first to include Hispanic
Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU) and Historically Black Colleges and Universities
(HBCU) universities. The heavy demand for competent graduates in computer science is a driving
force behind the discipline’s commitment to a quality program.
B. History
Computer science courses were first taught in 1968. WNMU had Unclassified Courses offered under
the Office of Research. There was a course of study in computer programming and systems analyses
which made it possible to accumulate sufficient hours for a minor equivalent. The offerings changed
in number of offerings and areas between 1968 to 1976. In 1977, the Department of Mathematics
housed and offered a Computer Science minor. In 1982, the College of Science and Mathematics
was organized. Major and minor programs were offered in Biology, Botany, Chemistry, Computer
Science, Geology, Mathematics, Math Education, and Zoology. In 1985, the Department of
Mathematics and Computer Science was organized. The degrees offered were BA in Mathematics,
BA in Computer Science, and BS in Computer Science. From 1993-1999, the Department of
Mathematics and Computer Science included the BA/BS in Computer Science and minors in
Computer Science and Management Information Systems. In 2000, the minor in Management
Information Systems was inactive. In 2002, the minor in Management Information Systems was
reactivated under the Department of Business, Economics, and Public Administration as an
emphasis area. The next degree addition in Computer Science occurred in 2008 with the approval of
the AS in eCommerce and System Administration.
C. Recommendations from Previous Review
After extensive research, we were unable to locate any recommendations from the previous review.
Today, changes in the program are made based on student comments, review of the curriculum by
the instructors, comments made by the department, employment demands, and grant applications
as identified by faculty.
D. Procedures and Participants in the Review
The current faculty, Doug Medin, Gerald Burgess, and Virginia Huegel, compiled this report. Paul
Landrum provided the statistical data. A report of library resources was provided by Gilda Ortego. A
rough draft of the report was submitted to DeAnne Miller on 2/1/2010.
CRITERION A: PROGRAM CENTRALITY
A. Educational Goals and Objectives of the Program
Ultimately, the goal of any program should be to provide students access to the knowledge and
skills that will enable them to apply for graduate school in a related area or apply for a job in their
discipline. That is, and has been the goal of the Computer Science Program. In fact, most of the
graduates from this program have found a job in a related field or have applied and been accepted
in a reputable graduate school.
Not all students who take our courses have the intention of a major or minor in Computer Science.
For example, some disciplines, such as Mathematics, require their majors to take a Computer
Science course because of the high likelihood that their majors will encounter Computer Science
within their work. Other students may use WNMU as a stepping stone to another institution and
take Computer Science courses at WNMU in the hopes of majoring in a related field such as
Engineering or Computer Science at another institution.
Regardless of the intent of the student, the goal of the program is to deliver relevant, up-to-date
course material in a manner that students have the best possibility to succeed. The program is
constantly being updated, both at the course level and the program level, in order to give students
access to the skills necessary to compete in today’s job market with students from other
institutions. In January 2010, after extensive consultation with other members of the Math and
Computer Science department, Gerald Burgess proposed major course changes to the WNMU
Curriculum and Instruction Committee. These changes were approved February 2010 to be included
in the catalog for Fall 2010.
B.
Relationship of the Program to the Institutional Mission
Most students who are enrolled in Computer Science courses come from New Mexico or the
surrounding areas. We offer a minor in Computer Science, an Associate of Science in eCommerce
and System Administration as well as Bachelor of Arts in Computer Science and a Bachelor of
Science in Computer Science. All programs include a strong comprehensive general education
requirement.
Our classes and professors provide environments that encourage exchange of ideas and provide
intellectual settings. Our courses are structured with the intent to provide intellectual and social
growth of students as they progress from year to year. We use advanced technology in all of our
classrooms. Students in our classes come from diverse backgrounds. We encourage interaction
among students through occasional social events and professor-monitored lab hours. In addition,
many of our students interact with the community by completing projects for various businesses in
our capstone courses.
CRITERION B: PROGRAM CURRICULUM AND STRUCTURE
A. Admission, Retention, Graduation Requirements
Admission to the University must be completed prior to admission to the program. Admission
requirements for the program are the same as for the University. The following regulations apply to
all students seeking Computer Science degrees.






A grade of C or better in English 101 or equivalent is required.
A maximum of sixteen credit hours may be obtained using any combination of ACT or CLEP
examinations.
A maximum of two classes in a Computer Science associate program may be challenged.
A maximum of eight credit hours of independent/tutorial course work may be applied toward
graduation for the associate degree.
A minimum of sixteen credit hours must be taken at WNMU (twelve of the last sixteen credit
hours must be at WNMU).
A minimum of 2.0 grade point average is required for completion.
It is now possible for students earning an AS degree in any field to articulate to a BA/BS degree. Our
area specifically fits with the BBA in Management with an MIS emphasis. During the advising
session, students are made aware of the flexibility of their educational and employment options.
B. Program Structure
1. Degree Options and Objectives
The Computer Science program offers an Associate of Science degree and a Bachelor’s degree in
Computer Science. Students may also apply the core courses of the AS degree toward a minor
requirement for a bachelor’s degree. Since all the courses taken at WNMU, there is no transfer
problem.
B1 Develop
project
requirements
B2 Develop
software
requirements
Y
CMPS 496
CMPS 493
CMPS 470
CMPS 450
CMPS 435
CMPS 415
CMPS 300
CMPS 370
CMPS 362
CMPS 330
CMPS 263
CMPS 240
CMPS 170
The following table outlines our department goals from our assessment report with our
curriculum.
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
CMPS 496
CMPS 493
CMPS 470
CMPS 450
CMPS 415
CMPS 435
Y
CMPS 300
CMPS 370
CMPS 362
CMPS 330
CMPS 263
CMPS 240
B3 Develop
software
CMPS 170
Y
B4 Develop
database designs
B5 Implement
databases
B6 Teamwork
B7
Communication
B8 Ethical
Behavior
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
2. Description of current required and elective courses
CMPS 140. Introduction to Computer Science. An overview of the Computer Science field
including data/information flow, elementary data structures, problem analysis and algorithm
design; conceptual foundation for logical structures, control structures, arrays, design
considerations, I/O operations and others. Introduction to structural programming, objectoriented programming, the use of scripting languages, and an introduction to a programming
development environment. (3)
CMPS 170. Computer Programming Fundamentals. The logical and numerical basis of computer
operation, control of information flow, elementary data structures, problem and algorithm
design, structural programming, numeric and non-numeric applications using a subset of one or
more high-level languages; for majors and minors of computer science. Prerequisite: MATH 111
or permission of the instructor. (3)
CMPS 240. Problem Solving. Development of top-down design; further investigation of arrays,
records, file processing, recursion, and pointers. Prerequisite: CMPS 170. (3)
CMPS 263. Databases. The system analysis concepts applied to the overall design of long term
databases. Analysis, design, and processing of real databases. Prerequisite: CMPS 110 or CMPS
111. (3)
CMPS 265. e-Commerce Application Development. Application of programming skills in the
eCommerce environment including networking and database processing concepts used in
eCommerce and eBusiness. Course includes the analysis, design, and implementation of an
eCommerce system. Prerequisites: CMPS 111, 170, and 263. (3)
CMPS 270. System Administration, Software Integration and Planning. Exploration and skill
development of Lights-Out computing and integration of Off the Shelf software products as part
of hardware and software configuration management. Prerequisites: CMPS 170 and 263. (3)
CMPS 296. Associate Degree Project. Students are required to propose and create an individual
project of appropriate focus, size, and complexity, and to write a project document that
discusses the project in a narrative form. Upon completion of the project, both the project and
project document must be approved by the department. Prerequisites: CMPS 240, 265, and
270. (3)
CMPS 320. Architecture and Assembly Language. Fundamentals of digital computer design
including gates, flip-flops, Karnaugh maps, state tables, elementary circuit design, register
transfer instructions, machine and assembly language, assemblers and computer memories.
Prerequisites: CMPS 170 and ENGL 102. (3)
CMPS 323. Programming Languages. A study of the essential questions concerning
implementation and behavior of high level programming languages; compares many languages,
both historically and morphologically. Prerequisites: CMPS 240, ENGL 102, or permission of the
instructor. (3)
CMPS 330. Platform Independent Programming. Introducing the concept of a virtual machine
and its associated programming language. The object-oriented classes supporting the graphical
user interface of the virtual machine are examined in the syntactical context of the
programming language. Prerequisites: CMPS 240, ENGL 102 or permission of the instructor. (3)
CMPS 350. Data Structures. Introduction to the concepts of stacks, linked lists, binary trees, and
queues; covers the programming techniques necessary for using these structures. Prerequisites:
CMPS 170, 330, and ENGL 102 or permission of the instructor. (3)
CMPS 354. Networking and Communications. Communications media, data codes, interfaces,
protocols, modems, multiplexers, network hardware, and network management. Prerequisites:
CMPS 170 and ENGL 102. (3)
CMPS 370. Application Development Techniques. An exploration of a development
environment for software applications including user interface design, library utilization and
operating system considerations. Prerequisites: CMPS 240 and ENGL 102. (3)
CMPS 410. Analysis of Algorithms. The study of fundamental techniques used to design and
analyze efficient algorithms; time and space complexity; searching and sorting algorithms;
complexity and NP-complete problems. Prerequisites: CMPS 240, ENGL 102, and MATH 171. (3)
CMPS 415. Advanced Concepts of Databases. Analysis, design, processing, and administration
of real databases. Prerequisites: CMPS 263 and ENGL 102. (3)
CMPS 420. Operating Systems. Multiprogramming and multiprocessing, memory management,
systems accounting, interprocess communications, interfaces, and feedback. Real world contact
with modern operating systems. Prerequisite: CMPS 240 or 350, and ENGL 102. (3)
CMPS 430. Computer Graphics. An investigation of the methods of computer graphics including
hardware, coordinate systems, two-dimensional transformations, graphics data structures,
windows and viewports, three-dimensional projections, perspective, and hidden line removal.
Prerequisites: CMPS 240 and ENGL 102. (3)
CMPS 450. Advanced Object-Oriented Programming. An introduction to current techniques and
methods of object oriented programming, including class libraries, inheritance, data hiding,
object creation, polymorphism, and exceptions. Prerequisites: CMPS 330 and ENGL 102. (3)
CMPS 496. Senior Project and Seminar. A culmination of the computer science major with a full
semester project bringing together the various concepts of computer science. The student(s)
will meet with the faculty in a seminar format to choose a project, make progress reports and
make a final presentation detailing the project with documentation and performance results.
Prerequisite: ENGL 102. (3)
NEW REQUIRED COURSES AND/OR REVISIONS TO EXISTING COURSES (APPROVED BY
CURRICULUM AND INSTRUCTION COMMITTEE FEBRUARY 2010)
CMPS 170 Computer Programming I. Students learn how to develop small scale applications
from detail requirements in an object-oriented language. The course is taught using a Use, Then
Write pedagogy. Topics include, in order: (a) object manipulation, (b) class development
through inheritance and method writing, (c) method development through stepwise refinement
of requirements, (d) flow control of while and if statements, (e) use of parameters to provide
method flexibility, (f) use of temporary variable and more complete flow control, (g) instance
variables and constants, and (h) creating classes through interface implementation. Throughout
the course emphasis is given to code tracing, stepwise refinement, coding patterns, using
documentation, writing documentation, and the unified modeling language (UML).
Prerequisites: MATH 111 or equivalent compass score.
CMPS 240 Computer Programming II. Students continue to learn how to develop small scale
applications from detail requirements in an object-oriented language. The course is taught using
a Use, Then Write pedagogy. Topics include, in order: (a) class collaboration, (b) exceptions, (c)
using already defined data structures, (d) file input and output, (e) arrays, (f) software
development process using software quality metrics, (g) polymorphism, and (h) graphical user
interfaces. Throughout the course emphasis is given to code tracing, stepwise refinement,
coding patterns, using documentation, writing documentation, and the unified modeling
language (UML). Prerequisites: CMPS 170, ENGL 101 or equivalent compass score.
CMPS 263 Database Design & Implementation I. Students learn to design and implement small
scale relational databases from project requirements. Topics include: (a) purpose and function
of databases, (b), database management systems, (c) a relational database design methodology,
(d) data normalization, (e) recursive and super/sub type relations, and (f) the use of data
definition and manipulation SQL statements. This course develops communication skills
between individuals and database professionals through the use and development of standard
database design documents such as entity relationship diagrams (ERDs). This course is suitable
for all students; no Computer Science background is required. Department Prerequisites: ENGL
101 or equivalent compass score, CMPS 111.
CMPS 300 Software Quality Assurance, Deployment, and Maintenance. Students learn to
systematically evaluate software systems. Topics include software: (a) verification, (b) reviews,
(c) metrics, (d) quality assurance, (e) reliability, and (f) availability. University Prerequisites:
ENGL 102. Department Prerequisites: CMPS 240
CMPS 330 Web Application Programming. Students learn to design and develop moderately
sized web applications from project requirements and analysis documents. Topics include: (a)
basic network protocols and message flow, (b) hypertext markup language (XHTML), cascading
style sheets (CSS), client-side scripting using JavaScript, server-side application development
with database access. Throughout the course emphasis is given to adherence to project
requirements, software development methodologies, team dynamics, and the unified modeling
language (UML). Prerequisites: ENGL 102. Department Prerequisites: CMPS 263 and CMPS 240.
CMPS 362 System Analysis. Students learn to gather project requirements, analyze the problem
space, develop a conceptual model of a software solution, and develop project management
deliverables, such as Gantt and Pert charts. Throughout the course emphasis is given to
adherence to project management guidelines, project deliverables, team dynamics, and the
unified modeling language (UML). University Prerequisites: ENGL 102. Department
Prerequisites: CMPS 260 or CMPS 263.
CMPS 370 Application Development Techniques with Data Structures. Students learn to
develop moderately sized applications from software design documents and/or modify existing
open source software according to project requirements. Projects are selected that require
significant data structure manipulation. Throughout the course emphasis is given to adherence
to project requirements, software development methodologies, and the unified modeling
language (UML). University Prerequisites: ENGL 102. Department Prerequisites: CMPS 240.
CMPS 415 Database Design & Implementation II. Students learn to design and implement
moderate scale relational databases from project requirements. Students design and implement
a moderate scale relational database of at least ten tables. University Prerequisites: ENGL 102.
Department Prerequisites: CMPS 263.
CMPS 435 e-Commerce. Students learn to merge commercial aspects with web application
development techniques to develop a complete e-Commerce application from project
requirements. Projects are selected to provide significant database access, problem complexity,
and business processes. Throughout the course emphasis is given to adherence to project
requirements, software development methodologies, and the unified modeling language (UML).
University Prerequisites: ENGL 102. Department Prerequisites: CMPS 263, CMPS 330, CMPS
362.
CMPS 450 Software Engineering. Students learn to use systematic methods for designing,
coding, testing, and documenting medium-sized programs. Major topics include formal
specification, abstraction, modularity and reusability. University Prerequisites: ENGL 102.
Department Prerequisites: CMPS 240.
CMPS 470 Topics in Computer Science. Selected topic from Computer Science will vary from
offering to offering. Prerequisites: ENGL 102. Department Prerequisites: CMPS 240, CMPS 263.
CMPS 493 Project Proposal (1 credit hour). Students will complete the proposal of the software
development project for their senior project including all requirements gathering, analysis, and
project management deliverables. University Prerequisites: ENGL 102. Department
Prerequisites: Permission of Instructor.
Summary of Course Requirements
The following images are taken from the degree plan link.
BACHELOR OF ARTS or BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN COMPUTER SCIENCE
3. Typical Program of Study
COMPUTER SCIENCE ASSOCIATE DEGREE
Sequence of Computer Science Courses
CMPS Courses
First Year
Second Year
Fall
111, 140
240, 265
Spring
170, 260, 263
270, 296
COMPUTER SCIENCE BA/BS DEGREE
Sequence of Computer Science Courses
CMPS
Course
First Year
Second Year
Third Year
Fourth Year
Starting in Odd Year (e.g. 201110)
Fall
Spring
170
240, 263
370, 450
300, 470
330, 362
415, 435, 493
496
496
Starting in Even Year (e.g. 201210)
Fall
Spring
170
240, 263
330, 362
415, 435
370, 450
300, 470, 493
496
496
4. History of Courses Taught as Program Requirements
Computer Science courses have been a part of the University since 1968. Due to a very rapidly
changing industry, there have been major revisions throughout the years. The initial languages
included COBOL, Fortran and BASIC. Each could be classified as command-line procedural
languages. As industry changed through the years, languages taught became more visual with
an eventual transition to object-oriented languages such as Java and Visual Basic.NET. The
department transitioned to Java beginning Fall 2009. Additionally, because programs written 30
years ago in industry were considerably smaller and much less complex than the programs
written now, our courses must be constantly updated in order to give students the skills to
compete in today’s programming environment.
C. Articulation
The state of New Mexico mandated the development of articulation agreements among the New
Mexico institutions of higher education. Under this authority, the New Mexico Computer Science
Task Force is developing a Computer Science articulation agreement and matrix for the participating
New Mexico institutions of higher education. Gerald Burgess is the chair of the task force.
Virginia Huegel is the off-campus liason between our department and any satellite campus or that
teach CMPS 111 Computer Literacy or CMPS 260 Computer Applications. We are currently
completing a Qwest grant to support offering computer literacy at Cobre High School. Two sections
of CMPS 111 Computer Literacy were offered Fall 2009 and two sections are being offered Spring
2010 semesters.
D. Planning Processes
The use of internal reviews, student evaluations, and comparisons to similar programs offered in
New Mexico form the basis for our planning process. We meet regularly to discuss curriculum and
business needs. As a result of the planning process, a proposal for revision of the program major and
minor was presented and approved by the Curriculum and Instruction committee.
E. Assessment
Assessment has been both formal and informal. Reports were prepared and submitted annually to
the Assessment Committee. This formal process is a self-study that was evaluated by the members
of the Assessment Committee. Because this was an external review, the feedback will be useful.
The beginning of major revisions to CMPS 111 Computer Literacy and CMPS 260 Computer
Applications began in 2007. There was a standardization of the content and competencies. Flexibility
was maintained for each individual instructor to select the course delivery and course assignments.
After the implementation of these changes, the feedback from the students and faculty reinforced
our changes. We, the Computer Science faculty, review the content of our courses at the end of
each semester. Part of the feedback is from the student comments received during the student
evaluation process. Changes made as a result of both the formal and informal processes have
included course content, course time offerings, and course textbooks. The final result is an improved
learning environment for the students.
CRITERION C: PROGRAM RESOURCES
A. Finances (Budget)
The budget for the Department of Computer Science currently serves two (2) programs. The
University pays the Computer Science faculty salaries and miscellaneous supplies. Because we are a
technology-based program, it is mandatory we keep current with the changes occurring in our field.
In order to do this, we attend national and regional meetings to network with peers, business
representatives, and textbook publishers.
B. Facilities and Capital Equipment
Present equipment, labs, and classroom space are currently adequate to provide necessary
instruction. Equipment and software are current and help provide students with a state-of-the-art
education. In 2007, new computers were purchased by the University. The installation and
maintenance of the computers is supplied by IT staff. Computer Science faculty recommend when a
change is necessary to a different operating system and/or application software. This enables the
University and department to keep current with the rapidly changing technology.
C. Library
MILLER LIBRARY ASSESSMENT FOR
COMPUTER SCIENCE PROGRAM REVIEW
SPRING 2010
The Miller Library has consistently maintained a collection and provided services to support the
Computer Science program. As shown in Table One, the Miller Library collection includes 173 titles
in a wide variety of programming languages. Table Two provides a quantitative description of
holdings that support specific courses in the Computer Science program. Because of the rapid
developments in computer science, books and media resources become obsolete within a few short
years. Consequently, the Miller Library strives to keep its computer science collection current by
continuously weeding (i.e., removing) titles that are out-of-date. The result of continuous weeding
is that , despite the smaller number of titles, the collection quality is enhanced.
A unique feature of the computer science collection is that the Library of Congress uses a limited call
number range for classification purposes. The classification range (QA 75.5 to QA 76.9) does not
accommodate subjects that are relevant to the field. Therefore, some works are classified under
other call number ranges. The most important of these to computer science are listed in Table
Three.
As the Miller Library is a partial depository for Federal Government Documents and enjoys full status
as a depository for New Mexico State Government Documents. Because of its depository status,
the Miller Library regularly receives print or electronic versions of important items such as
government-sponsored studies, transcripts of congressional hearings, and findings of reports
presented to governmental agencies or Congressional committees. Works on network security and
computer crime are often published as Government Documents. Like other books in the circulating
collection, Government Documents may be checked out.
List One is a description of the database subscriptions that support the Computer Science program.
Most of these databases include online articles. On occasion, patrons may not be able to find
articles in either the print collection or in a database. The Interlibrary Loan Department is
responsible for requesting books, articles, and other library items not held at the Miller Library.
Typically, students and faculty are not assessed charges to request items from other libraries. The
Miller Library is a member of several consortia that are committed to resource-sharing. These
consortia include AMIGOS Library Services, Inc., (membership includes libraries in New Mexico,
Arizona, Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Louisiana), the New Mexico Consortium of Academic
Libraries, and the National Network of Libraries in Medicine.
TABLE ONE: MILLER LIBRARY HOLDINGS
by Specific Programming languages
Subject
Heading
Ada
(Computer
program
language)
C
(Computer
program
language
Assembler
language
(Computer
program
language)
Pascal
(Computer
program
language)
Java
(Computer
program
language)
Microsoft
Visual C#
.NET
Microsoft
.NET
Microsoft
Visual
studio
XML
(Document
markup
language)
PHP
(Computer
program
language)
Number
of Items
Published
prior to
2000
4
Number of
Items
Published
Since 2000
Number of
E-Books
TOTAL
0
Number of
Items in
Media
Formats
(DVD’s etc.)
0
0
17
4
0
0
21
11
1
0
0
12
16
0
0
0
16
10
35
0
0
45
0
3
0
0
3
0
9
0
0
9
0
1
0
0
1
1
9
0
0
10
0
8
0
0
8
4
Python
(Computer
program
language)
FORTRAN
(Computer
program
language)
Perl
(Computer
program
language)
0
1
0
0
1
40
0
0
0
40
0
3
0
0
3
TOTAL
173
TABLE TWO: MILLER LIBRARY HOLDINGS
ARRANGED ALPHABETICALLY BY LIBRARY OF CONGRESS SUBJECT
HEADINGS
Subject Heading
Number
of Items
Published
prior to
2000
Number
of Items
Published
Since
2000
Number
of EBooks
CMPS 410.
Analysis of
Algorithms.
Algorithms
22
4
3
0
26
CMPS 403.
Desktop
Publishing.
Business Computer
programs
15
10
0
0
25
CMPS 440.
Information
Warfare.
Ciphers
7
1
1
0
8
CMPS 354.
Networking and
Communications.
Computer network
protocols
3
6
4
0
9
Course Number
And Title
Number TOTAL
of Items
in Media
Formats
(DVD’s
etc.)
CMPS 440.
Information
Warfare.
Cryptography
Mathematics.
0
3
2
0
3
CMPS 350. Data
Structures
Data structures
(Computer science)
19
5
0
0
24
CMPS 263
Databases, CMPS
415 Advanced
Concepts of
Databases
Database
management
30
18
0
0
48
CMPS 263
Databases, CMPS
415 Advanced
Concepts of
Databases
Database
management
Computer programs
2
2
0
0
4
CMPS 435. ECommerce.
Electronic commerce
4
16
5
0
20
CMPS 435. ECommerce.
Electronic commerce
Management
1
6
2
0
6
CMPS 354.
Networking and
Communications.
Ethernet (Local area
network system)
1
2
2
0
3
CMPS 270.
System
Administration,
Software
Integration and
Planning, CMPS
296. Associate
Degree Project,
CMPS 405 MIS for
Manager
Management
information systems
30
8
4
0
38
CMPS 354.
Networking and
Communications.
Network analysis
(Planning)
4
0
0
0
4
CMPS 333. Data
Analysis.
Numerical analysis
Data processing.
17
1
0
0
18
CMPS 263
Databases, CMPS
415 Advanced
Concepts of
Databases
Object-oriented
databases
3
1
0
0
4
CMPS 450.
Advanced ObjectOriented
Programming.
Object-oriented
programming
(Computer science)
10
11
0
0
21
CMPS 420
Operating
Systems
Operating systems
(Computers)
15
12
0
0
27
CMPS 263
Databases, CMPS
415 Advanced
Concepts of
Databases
Relational databases
6
3
0
0
9
CMPS 270.
System
Administration,
Software
Integration and
Planning. CMPS
296. Associate
Degree Project.
System design
4
6
3
0
10
CMPS 354.
Networking and
Communications.
TCP/IP (Computer
network protocol)
4
5
2
0
9
CMPS 354.
Networking and
Communications.
Wireless LANs
0
4
3
0
4
TABLE THREE: MILLER LIBRARY HOLDINGS IN
COMPUTER SCIENCE LISTED IN ORDER OF LIBRARY OF CONGRESS
CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM
Library
of
Congress
Call
Number
Range
Subject Heading
Number of
Items
Published
prior to 2000
Number
of Items
Published
Since
2000
Number of
E-Books
Number
of Items
in Media
Formats
(DVD’s
etc.)
Total
HD
9696.2HD
9696.82
Q325.5
Q 360
QA 74
QA267.7
Computer Industry
4
4
0
0
8
0
10
1
0
0
0
0
0
2
1
0
1
0
0
0
0
2
11
1
1
Varied
Machine learning
Information Theory
Computational labs
Computational
complexity
Computer literacy
4
2
0
0
6
T 897.7
Computer animation
3
8
6
0
17
Mostly
in
Z 52.5.
Word Processing
13
5
3
0
21
TOTAL
67
LIST ONE: DATEBASE SUBSCRIPTIONS
The Miller Library subscribes to several databases that facilitates research in the computer science
journal literature. These include the following:
 Computer Database produced by Gale Cengage Learning: Covers computer-related product
introductions, news and reviews in areas such as hardware, software, electronics,
engineering, communications and the application of technology; Permits library users to
access the most well-read and influential periodicals on the computer, telecommunications
and electronics industries.
 Computers and Applied Sciences Complete produced by EBSCO: covers the research and
development spectrum of the computing and applied sciences disciplines. Includes the
online version of Computers Desktop Encyclopedia
 JSTOR: Includes computer science topics published in 22 scholarly mathematical journals
 InfoTrac Information Science and Library Issues: Includes articles from both peer-reviewed
journals and popular magazines
D. Other Academic Support Resources and Services
Computer Science students have access to the University’s Academic Support Center. The center
provides a variety of services leading to the academic success of WNMU students including
workshops, academic advising, personal counseling, academic and peer mentoring, and other
related services. Students also have access to the Career Services/Cooperative Education Office. This
office provides personal assistance to students and alumni seeking employment before and after
graduation. Services for students with special needs are provided through the Special Needs Office.
Types of assistance provided are note takers, interpreters, readers, guides, recording of lectures,
transcribing, and academic tutoring. We encourage students to access all resources available to
them to help improve their learning experience at WNMU. Students are also advised about the
Writing Center hours. This resource helps students with all their writing assignments.
CRITERION D: PROGRAM PRODUCTIVITY AND EFFICIENCY
A. Major Headcount Enrollment
Program
Type
Computer Science
Major
40
33
32
28
32
Computer Science
Minor
8
2
3
5
6
Computer Science
Concentration
1
0
0
0
0
49
35
35
33
38
Total
2004/05 2005/06 2006/07 2007/08 2008/09
Note the trend of increasing majors in 2009. As further proof of this, compared to 2008, our entrylevel programming classes in Fall 2009 and Spring 2010 have more students than they had a year
ago. As a comparison, we were unable to offer a CMPS 170 Computer Programming Fundamentals
(CMPS 170 Computer Programming I for 2010-11 catalog) class in Spring 2009. Currently, the Spring
2010 we were able to offer this same class.
B. Degrees Conferred
Degrees Awarded
Program
Degree 2004
2005
2006
2007 2008
2009
Computer Science
BA
0
0
0
0
0
1
Computer Science
BS
1
4
3
1
0
3
1
4
3
1
0
4
Total
The above chart lists the number of degrees conferred for the academic years from 2004 - 2009.
There are several reasons students did not complete the program. Some students transferred to
other institutions. Others changed from a Computer Science major to a minor. Sometimes, the rigor
of the program caused students to change majors. Still, others changed because they realized that
they did not want to be Computer Scientists. In an effort to increase retention, we have set aside
times in our schedules when professors are present in the lab to assist students. In addition, we are
constantly updating our teaching styles and courses in an effort to retain students.
C. Credit Hour Production
Year
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
Student Credit Hours
420
414
360
351
396
366
The above chart reveals the credit hour production for the Computer Science program. Student
credit hours remained fairly consistent for the past four (4) years. However, we anticipate an
increase for 2010.
D. Number of Faculty Based on CHE Productivity Rates
There are currently two (2) faculty members assigned to teach the eight (8) required core courses
and four (4) elective courses. There is also one faculty member, whose primary responsibility is to
coordinate the general education nature of Computer Literacy and Computer Application courses.
This includes any off-campus offerings. Each member teaches four to five (4-5) courses in the Fall
and Spring semesters. One faculty member is also responsible for supervising any senior projects,
with the assistance of the other two faculty members.
In 2009 and 2007, the program had 32 majors for a ratio of 10.7:1. In 2008, the program had 28
majors for a ratio of 9.33:1. In 2006, the program had 33 majors for a ratio of 11:1. In 2005, the
program had 40 majors for a ratio of 13.33:1. Students take from 12 to 16 credit hours per semester.
The conclusion from these ratios is that the average student to instructor ratio was 11:1. This ratio
contributes to the quality of the learning environment.
The instructors promote the program through department brochures, revisions to the department
website, and assistance to the Admissions staff.
E. Average Class Size
The class limit for all Computer Science classes is a maximum of twenty (20) because of equipment
limitations. Our classrooms will only accommodate twenty (20) students. We also feel the need to
keep the classes small in order for students to have access to the instructor and so the instructor can
give individual attention to any student who needs it. Research shows that the smaller class size is
conducive to the learning process. Our student population also demands that the class size be small.
The majority of our students are non-traditional students. Some of these students have not been in
a classroom for many, many years. They need to feel comfortable in the classroom environment to
help retention purposes.
F. Number of Courses Offered and the Time of Offering
A student declaring a Computer Science major may have to take CMPS 140 Introduction to
Computer Science if they have no background in Computer Science and if their current math
background does not include at least Intermediate Algebra. After this course is completed, or if it is
waived, a student may enter CMPS 170 Computer Programming Fundamentals, which is the first
half of what is described by Association of Computing Machinery (ACM) of a CS I course. The second
half of CS I is CMPS 240 Problem Solving. After completion of these courses, it is possible for a
student to complete the rest of his/her CS requirements. Typically, we offered one upper-division
core class and one upper-division elective per semester. Upper division classes are offered on a twoyear rotation. For extenuating circumstances, we have created independent study courses or course
substitutions for those students that fall outside of this course sequence where it jeopardizes their
ability to graduate in a timely manner.
CRITERION E: PROGRAM QUALITY
A. Other Program Evaluations
The Computer Science faculty members have completed annual assessment reports. Either the
assessment coordinator or the members of the assessment committee evaluated this report. The
report format was a self-study of the curriculum and required outcomes of the program. This is a
valuable tool used to reflect upon all aspects of a program. It also provides an external view of the
quality of a program. The results provided the faculty with data to reflect on for possible changes for
the future. The interesting factor of this formal process was it matched what the faculty members
had already determined needed to be changed. With both groups concurring with the changes, we
were able to restructure our curriculum.
B. Quality of Faculty
There were four (4) full-time faculty members until January 2010. Two full-time members had
Master degrees with years of teaching and industry experience. The other full-time faculty members
had a Ph.D. in a related field with years of teaching and industry experience.
C. Research Activity within the Program
Since WNMU is a teaching university, research is not a required activity for the faculty teaching the
Computer Science program. The faculty members conduct informal research to improve the quality
of the curriculum and to stay competitive with other programs offered in New Mexico and
surrounding states.
D. Community Service Activity within the Program
Community service is not required for the Associate of Science, Bachelor of Science, or Bachelor of
Arts degrees in Computer Science. However, the students are encouraged to become involved in
their community in whatever way they can. This concept is taught in many classes and the faculty
strive by example to show their students the importance of community service. The capstone
course for all three (3) degrees has assisted businesses and non-profit organizations with related
projects. A recent AS eCommerce graduate used the updating the Math/CMPS website for her
Senior Project.
E. External Review Process
See section A: Other Program Evaluation.
CRITERION F: PROGRAM DEMAND/NEED
A. Student Demand for the Program
The number of declared majors cited in Criterion D, Section A, documents the student demand for
this program. Past and current students of Computer Science testify to the program’s validity and
quality.
Graduates from Computer Science typically do not have problems becoming employed in companies
that need computer programmers or database administrators.
A review of the DOL Occupational Employment Projections report reveals that there will a 17%
increase in Math and Computer Science related jobs between the years of 2008 and 2018. This
translates to a projected 15,170 workers in this area in 2018 compared to 12,890 workers in the
same area in 2008 representing an increase of 2,280 workers. This also puts the percentage increase
in the Top Ten of all professions in the state.
As quoted from the website, http://www.bls.gov/oco/oco1002 the job outlook for “employment
growth” for computer scientists “is expected to be much faster than the average, and job prospects
should be excellent.” The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts a 24% growth in jobs from 2008 to
2018. For computer software engineers and computer programs, “Overall, employment of computer
software engineers and computer programmers is projected to increase much faster than the
average for all occupations. Job prospects should be best for those with a bachelor's degree and
relevant experience.” The BLS predicts a 21% growth in jobs from 2008 to 2018. For database
administrators “Employment is expected to grow much faster than the average, and job prospects
should be excellent.” The BLS projects a 30% growth in jobs from 2008 to 2018 translating to an
increase of 295,000 jobs.
B. Employment Needs and Job Opportunities
As stated in http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos303 “Computer software engineers design and develop
software. They apply the theories and principles of computer science and mathematical analysis to
create, test, and evaluate the software applications and systems that make computers work. The
tasks performed by these workers evolve quickly, reflecting changes in technology and new areas of
specialization, as well as the changing practices of employers.”
“Software engineers design and develop many types of software, including computer games,
business applications, operating systems, network control systems, and middleware. They must be
experts in the theory of computing systems, the structure of software, and the nature and
limitations of hardware to ensure that the underlying systems will work properly.”
“Computer software engineers begin by analyzing users' needs, and then design, test, and develop
software to meet those needs. During this process they create flowcharts, diagrams, and other
documentation, and may also create the detailed sets of instructions, called algorithms, that actually
tell the computer what to do. They also may be responsible for converting these instructions into a
computer language, a process called programming or coding, but this usually is the responsibility of
computer programmers. Computer programmers also update, repair, modify, and expand existing
programs. Some, especially those working on large projects that involve many programmers, use
computer-assisted software engineering (CASE) tools to automate much of the coding process.
These tools enable a programmer to concentrate on writing the unique parts of a program.
Programmers working on smaller projects often use ‘programmer environments,’ applications that
increase productivity by combining compiling, code walk-through, code generation, test data
generation, and debugging functions. Programmers also use libraries of basic code that can be
modified or customized for a specific application. This approach yields more reliable and consistent
programs and increases programmers' productivity by eliminating some routine steps.”
“As software design has continued to advance, and some programming functions have become
automated, programmers have begun to assume some of the responsibilities that were once
performed only by software engineers. As a result, some computer programmers now assist
software engineers in identifying user needs and designing certain parts of computer programs, as
well as other functions.”
C. Societal Needs for the Program
As stated in the website http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos304.htm#outlook, “the widespread and
increasing use of computers and information technology has generated a need for highly trained,
innovative workers with extensive theoretical expertise. These workers, called computer scientists,
are the designers, creators, and inventors of new technology. By creating new technology, or finding
alternative uses for existing resources, they solve complex business, scientific, and general
computing problems.”
D. Support of Other Programs Outside the Department
Several disciplines require their students to take CMPS 140 Introduction to Computer Science.
Several upper division classes are taken by MIS students. CMPS 111 Computer Literacy is a
University-required course for all students pursuing a BA/BS degree.
E. Support of Programs within the Department
The major in Mathematics requires CMPS 170 Computer Programming Fundamentals.
F. General Education
The Computer Science program requires 41 hours of general education courses. CMPS 111
Computer Literacy retains the General Education content format even though it is no longer a
General Education required course. This course was changed to a University-required course.
CRITERION G: PROGRAM DUPLICATION
Several institutions in New Mexico offer a Computer Science degree including New Mexico State, New
Mexico Tech, Eastern New Mexico, and University of New Mexico.
At New Mexico State University (NMSU), the Computer Science degree is housed under the College of
Arts and Sciences. They offer a BA/BS in Computer Science.
At New Mexico Tech (NMT), the Computer Science degree is housed under the Department of Computer
Science and Engineering. They offer a BS in Computer Science and a BS in Information Technology. In
2002, New Mexico Tech received designation as a Center of Academic Excellence in Information
Assurance Education from National Security Agency. We have submitted an NSA grant to start the
offerings in Information Assurance.
At Eastern New Mexico University (ENMU), the Computer Science degree is housed under the College of
Liberal Arts and Sciences in the Mathematical Sciences area. They offer a BS in Computer Science.
At University of New Mexico (UNM), the Computer Science degree is housed under the School of
Engineering. They offer a BS in Computer Science.
ENMU-CS
NMSU-CS
NMT-CS
NMT-IT
UNM-CS
WNMU-CS
Database
Design and
Implementatio
n II
Systems
Analysis and
Design
Web
Application
Programming
Software
Quality
Assurance
Data Base
Design &
Implementatio
nI
Bachelor
Degrees of
Science and
Art
A review of their websites (i.e. http://www.nmsu.edu, , http://www.nmt.edu, http://www.enmu.edu,
and http://www.unm.edu) is summarized by the following feature analysis table.
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
SUMMARY AND RECOMMENDATIONS
A. Strengths
We believe our strengths include the following:
1. Experienced and educated faculty
2. Faculty work as a team
3. Flexible curriculum for graduate school or direct employment
4. Student strengths/weaknesses evaluated annually
5. Increase of online course offerings
6. Emphasis on general education
7. Quality classrooms and equipment
8. Quality on-going student advisement
9. Emphasis on student retention and recruitment
10. Emphasis on concurrent/dual-credit for high school students
11. Development of CMPS brochure
B. Concerns
Our concerns include the following:
1. Increased caps for classes
2. Lack of marketing from the University
3. Retention of dual-credit students in any program at WNMU
4. Migration of dual-credit students to full-time WNMU student
5. Lack of tutoring support
6. Inability to identify CMPS majors/minors from Banner
C. Recommendations for Action
We have the following recommendations for action:
x
X
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Need for University supported marketing/recruiting
Need for four (4) full-time faculty
Complete two (2) courses proposals for Information Assurance course content
Continue collaboration between School of Business and CMPS for MIS emphasis area
Continue collaboration with Admissions staff for recruiting
D. Five-Year Goals for the Program
Our five-year goals for the program include:
1. Update brochure annually for recruitment tool
2. Update website annually for recruitment tool
3. Keep abreast of changes in technology to incorporate possible changes into the curriculum
4. Collaborate with other departments and off-campus sites to increase enrollment in CMPS
courses
5. Collaborate with other departments and off-campus sites to increase declared majors
6. Continue work with New Mexico Computer Science Articulation Task Force
7. Continue to participate with on-campus career fairs
Conclusion:
Computer science offerings at Western New Mexico University have evolved from a few offerings under
the Office of Research to an integral part of the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science. We
offer a service course to the entire campus. Computer Literacy is a university-required course for
students pursuing a BA/BS degree. This service course provides students with the skills they will need to
prepare documents in the other disciplines. We will continue to collaborate with other departments to
assure the content of this course continues to provide what our colleagues need their students to know.
We also offer curriculum for students to complete the AS eCommerce and System Administration or the
BA/BS in Computer Science. Because of the nature of technology, we continually review the curriculum
contents to match the employment requirements. Graduating students need to be on the cutting edge
to remain competitive in today’s job market.
The students acquire a general education foundation by completing courses geared toward the
University general education requirement such as communication (including writing and speaking),
literacy of all types (reading numbers, consumerism, technology), critical thinking, multicultural
perspectives, and social responsibilities.
The Computer Science faculty utilize available research from professional journals and associations to
update the curriculum and revise teaching techniques. Applied research is utilized by ascertaining
current occupational skills needed in the local community and the region to determine the curriculum
design. Applied research is also utilized to determine equipment needs and applicable computer
software applications to complement the program goals and objectives.
Students are involved in a capstone course that places them in the business community to gain work
experience but to also become involved in the local community. Faculty are members of local
professional and service organizations that contribute to the community. Faculty have been involved in
contributing to career fairs and being involved in and contributing to the multicultural and diversity
communities in the local area.
This self-study reveals the vastness and variety of opportunities available to students. Business depends
on qualified and competent computer professionals for their day-to-day operations. The Computer
Science programs provide the instruction required for future employment in the field. Therefore, we
respectfully request this program be continued.

2009-2010 CMPS Program Review

Transcription

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