CS 351: Computer Operating Systems

Course Description:

This course presents the theory of operating systems and an overview of one or more operating system environments. Operating system concepts covered should include (but are not limited to): process management, memory management, I/O management, file management, and security. Theory concepts will be put into practice with exercises, some requiring college algebra skills and/or basic programming knowledge. Operating system environments may include (but are not limited to): Windows, UNIX, Linux. Prerequisite: CS 208 and CS 225. 3:0:3

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completion of this course, the student should be able to:

• Compare and contrast the basic functions common to all operating systems.
• Know the commands of Linux by using them in a group project environment. (Optional)
• Demonstrate the concepts and techniques of process management, including interrupts and multitasking.
• Demonstrate the concepts and techniques of memory management, including dynamic memory allocation methods (Best Fit, Next Fit, First Fit, Worst Fit), and virtual memory swapping algorithms (Round Robin, FCFS, SPN, SRT, Feedback).
• Demonstrate the concepts and techniques of file management, including fragmenting, storage methods, backup methods, archiving, etc.

Teaching Directives:	Linkage to Learning Outcome #:
Homework Assignments:
Assign a sufficient amount of homework such that all of the above objectives are covered.	All
For each homework assignment, include problem-solving questions that require the student to apply the above objectives.	All
For each homework assignment, include short-essay questions that require the student to effective communicate the technical content of the above objectives.	All
For certain homework assignments, include critical-thinking questions that require the student to evaluate and analyze an operating system algorithm or design.	All
When the learning environment permits hands-on exercises, various projects can be given. For example: (1) have students install and explore various aspects of an actual operating system (such as Linux); (2) learn various concepts via an operating system simulator,; (3) write computer programs pertaining to operating system concepts.	All
Exams:
Include one or more of: short essay, short answer, multiple choice, multiple answer, mathematical calculation, operating system design.	All
Given a problem description, apply an appropriate operating system strategy.	All

Textbooks

To view the approved textbook list, click here.