The course specifically deals with database design projects. The design activity involves designing the database itself, designing some appropriate indexing and query processing techniques for the particular application, and the design of the interface between the user, database engine and back-end server. Besides the problem solving associated with the design of the project itself and its implementation, three major features of the course are documentation, presentation, and teamwork. Documentation tasks required for each project include an initial project proposal, weekly group reports, final individual reports, final group reports, and the development and maintenance of a group web-site. Project teams typically consist of 4 to 6 students. The students typically organize their own teams and select the project they wish to work on. Where needed, the professor assigns the student to a group based on the student's background and interests. As part of the course, each student is required to make at least one oral presentation. The instructor and class members provide feedback and ideas to the groups following weekly group presentations. Midterm and final demonstrations provide a forum for each group to showcase the design and results of their projects.
CSE 772 helps students to improve their skills in individual and group time management, project scheduling, professionalism, communication, and teamwork. Success of projects is highly dependent on the effectiveness of the teamwork. Students work within teams and develop interpersonal and time management skills while participating in the project design, implementation, documentation, and presentation. Many of the projects in the course are interdisciplinary in nature, and effective utilization of each team member's talents is critical for delivering a good project. Some examples are: