Parallel and distributed processing laboratory for CS 2nd grade students: an active N to N networking approach

This work describes the authors´ approach at their university in the last three years for computer science second grade undergraduate students to experience parallel and distributed computing. The goal is to give a solid understanding of parallel and distributed processing technologies and to build up basic skills in the field, such as parallel algorithms, multi-thread/network programming, IP/socket communication, MVC paradigm, RPC/remote method invocation (RMI), Database/SQL, and Java/JDBC. The course features a combination of active experimental learning and N to N networking approach. Unlike typical laboratories where central parallel servers or parallel machines are used (N users to one system networking), our laboratories do without them and instead organize groups of student PCs to form virtual parallel/distributed systems (N users to N systems networking). All PCs work as servers as well as clients. Parallel bucket sorting and virtual shopping mall implementations are employed for the course projects. The course consists of 14 ninety-minutes sessions within a semester, including introductory Java network programming and two projects. As the time is limited, homework and pre-laboratory experiments are encouraged. Web based course material distribution and the virtual laboratory environment contributed to student success.