You should investigate a topic concerning parallel computing by consulting the recent (post 1992) literature. You might read a single article, a collection of articles, or portions of a book. After completing your reading, you should write a short review document.
The review document should be at most 5 pages in length. The document should contain both a summary component (two thirds) and an evaluative component (one third). The evaluative component is the most important from a grading perspective. If the authors were proposing a technology (programming language, hardware, etc.), describe both the strengths and weaknesses of their approach. If the authors were describing the results of an experiment, evaluate their results and their conclusions. If the authors were reporting on a case study, what conclusions can you draw from their work?
Take a stand! And then defend your stand.
You should choose a topic and identify the exact readings you will be doing by October 10. Send me e-mail to fulfill this requirement. You are encouraged to discuss possibilities with me prior to making your final selection.
An initial submission of your paper should be done no later than November 3. Hand the hard copy to me in class or have the office staff put it in my mailbox in the CS department office.
I will grade and return the initial submission by November 17.
The final submission is due on December 8.
Both submissions will be equally weighted in determining your overall grade for the assignment.
Possible topics for the literature survey include (but are not limited to):
For a good general reference to parallel computing click here or here. (Also, here is a brand new general reference.)
In addition, Section 1.6 of the Quinn book (on reserve in Kingsbury library) provides a lengthy list of journals and conferences that cover parallel computing.
Comments and questions should be directed to pjh@cs.unh.edu