Bridging undergraduate learning and research in software and hardware
Liang Lun Cheng, Dale Parson · 2004
Embedded processing, where computers are used to monitor and control dedicated hardware, is a growing presence within mainstream computer science and engineering. Network processing, where embedded processors monitor and control communication networks, is a premier example of embedded processing. This paper presents contents of a Network Systems Design course used to introduce undergraduate students to understanding software-hardware co-design concepts and acquiring practical experience in embedded processing. The achieved goals of the course include: (i) carrying out lab-based introduction to embedded processing in its application area of network processing, and (ii) strengthening ties between academic study of network processing and industrial practice in the field, given the fact that most advances in network processor architectures to date have been made in industry. Responses from students approved our intention of the "hands-on" lab-based introduction using a modular network processing laboratory and verified the effectiveness of integrating academic study with industrial experience.