Notes to improve homework assignments in CS5244 and to make them a little easier to grade.
Add to those homework assignments that were provided in the Java(tm) course -- make each homework build on the one that came before. Since homeworks are additive, the homeworks are more thematic
Articulate specific requirements for homework assignments in standard format
Provide detailed testing and grading criteria
Provide test script, where possible -- demonstrate exception handling and basic functionality
Require use of a coding standard
Have students collect performance data regarding algorithms used and communications approaches used
Describe rules for submitting homework -- what files are included in the submission and how they should be arranged (DO NOT SUBMIT SCREEN SHOTS or other large files)
Emphasize importance of file naming conventions. Don't use packages!
Describe submission format (directory structure, what is in .jar file and what is not, and so on)
Provide sample UI
Make the homework assignments a running theme -- have each assignment directly build on the previous one (with the exception of topics such as applets and servlets). This should help tie all the work together. Not all homeworks would have equal weight; interim "looks" at functionality could be simple checks to make sure progress is being made.
Provide several good examples of a well-documented program. Pay particular attention to javadoc requirements.
