Independent study courses can count for up to either 4 or 6 credits of 400-level electives. The independent study is for students to pursue some topic not offered in the standard curriculum or to investigate a topic in the curriculum in more depth. The student(s) must submit a proposal, along with an orange card signed by the professor who will be directing the independent study and the CS Department Chair. The proposal is used as a contract between the professor directing the independent study and the student(s) as to what they are required to do. The CS Department Chair reads the proposal to insure it is appropriate for an independent study course before signing the orange card. The student(s) in the course will receive a letter grade.
I prefer to do independent studies that involve more than one student. In addition, I prefer to oversee independent studies that are development oriented. Frankly, this is a more efficient use of my time and I believe it provides a better learning experience for the students involved. I will post requests for independent studies in this section of my home page so that other students who may be interested can investigate the possibility of forming a team to pursue the project described. If there is sufficient interest I will consider supervising the project. To make a request for an independent study project send me email meehan@cs.wwu.edu and I will post your request. Indicate if there are any other students who have expressed an interest in the project. If the project would require dedicated hardware to accomplish indicate what I would need to scrounge up to support it. Indicate which term you would like to try to undertake the project. Check here from time to time to see if you might be interested in participating in projects other students have requested.