Rapid Prototyping of Computing Systems - IEEE Pervasive Computing

1536-1268/02/$17.00 © 2002 IEEE A s reflected elsewhere in this inaugural issue of IEEE Pervasive Computing, pervasive, or ubiquitous, computing requires the integration of multiple technologies, including software, hardware, and human-computer interaction (HCI). To prepare students for this new paradigm in computing, we need multidisciplinary academic programs and courses. Furthermore, real-world design projects, design processes, and team experiences must play a primary role. “Rapid Prototyping of Computing Systems” at Carnegie Mellon University, organized by Dan Siewiorek, a professor in the School of Computer Science and the Electrical and Computer Engineering Department, combines all these elements in a single innovative course offered in multiple departments at CMU (see the “Quick Facts” sidebar). Students learn topics in multiple disciplines and complete an industrydriven, team-based project using a welldefined design process. Although the course prepares students for a wide range of computing applications, the topics and projects focus on pervasive computing.