Programming: We will use PostgreSQL as the database system, Java and C as the primary programming languages, and a POSIX environment as the primary operating system, for programming assignments.
Other Languages: If you prefer to use languages other than Java and C, please check with me very early in the course so that we can determine feasibility go over the specifics to make sure your submissions can be tested and graded fairly. You should avail of this option only if you are confident enough of your programming skills to not require any programming help, and are prepared to take on additional work. There is no guarantee this option will be granted to anyone.
Literate Programming: All submitted work must use a literate programming style: Your programs must be designed with a human as the intended reader, although they must also compile and run correctly. Programs that do not meet this requirement are likely to receive a zero score with no further consideration. Details will be discussed in class. The use of any specific literate-programming or documentation tool is neither necessary nor sufficient for this requirement.
Class accounts: Class accounts for Unix and PostgreSQL will be generated based on the forms distributed at the first class meeting. These accounts are required for successful completion of homeworks and other assignments. You should be able to access your accounts from anywhere on the Internet, including the labs in Neville Hall and elsewhere on campus, by using ssh to connect to cs.umaine.edu. On most Unix hosts, the command ssh -l username cs.umaine.edu should suffice. For Windows hosts, the freely available Putty program works well: http://www.chiark.greenend.org.uk/~sgtatham/putty/. Do not use unencrypted telnet sessions to connect to your account.