Teaching Object-oriented Simulation in a Software Engineering Framework

Each year object-oriented methodology (including its three main aspects: analysis, design, and programming) has been gaining more and more acceptance from the software industry. This acceptance is preceded by multi-disciplinary research in the fields of simulation, artificial intelligence, computer science, and software engineering. Year after year new computer science and engineering programs produce graduates that join the ranks of software systems developers. Software industry representatives frequently complain that the newcomers lack skills in practical aspects of software engineering. Another deficiency of undergraduate programs has been caused by traditional approach to teaching procedural programming. In the last few years more programs started using C++ or Java for introductory computer science classes. However, in many cases the teaching methodology did not change and the objects are introduced as an afterthought. This paper describes a junior-level course in an undergraduate computer science program, designed to teach object-oriented design and coding, while introducing discrete modeling and computer simulation concepts. Additionally, the course provides a vehicle for development of small team class projects addressing critical aspects of the modern software development life cycle. The author's experience with teaching the course may serve as a model for similar offerings in other colleges and universities.