Computer Scientists Seek Projects

Submitted by Kasey Gillam
Phone: (907) 474-7581
12/17/02

Computer science students at the University of Alaska Fairbanks are once again looking for challenging software design projects for a spring semester class. Students in UAF’s computer science program have gained real-world experience through designing and implementing software solutions for a wide array of Alaska organizations. So far, student computer scientists have developed more than 38 different software applications since the course was first offered at UAF 14 years ago.

Last spring students developed three systems; a database for Love INC., a database for Big Brothers Big Sisters and a score management system for UAF’s intramural sports program.

"All three of last year’s developments were well received by their respective clients," said Pete Knoke, associate professor with the Department of Mathematical Sciences.

Others who have benefited from the student software projects include the Fairbanks North Star Borough, the Bureau of Land Management, Alaska Family Partners, the Alaska Fire Marshal’s office, the North Pole Police Department, the Alaska State Youth Soccer Association and the Fairbanks Symphony Orchestra.

Typical prices for commercial, custom software development projects like those done annually by UAF students can run as high as $40,000. The projects typically require about 650 hours of software development labor per team of five students.

Tuesday, Jan. 14 is the deadline for local government, public service and private organizations to submit proposals for consideration by students in the senior project and professional practice course. Requests must be received by 5 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 14 by e-mail to ffpjk@uaf.edu, or by regular mail to the UAF Department of Mathematical Sciences, P.O. Box 756660, Fairbanks, Alaska, 99775-1110.

CONTACT: Pete Knoke, UAF Department of Mathematical Sciences, (907) 474-5107.