15-853 - Algorithms in the Real World
Instructor: Guy Blelloch
12.0 Units
Fall 2004

Description from Fall 2002 term - Subject to updates.

Description:
Although all but the simplest algorithms are often derided as being impractical, in reality sophisticated algorithms are used in many applications. The goal of the class is to get an appreciation of where algorithms are used and to understand the various considerations and tradeoffs used in designing algorithms (e.g. time, space, generality, and quality of the solution). I encourage both theory and systems students to take the class. Problems we will consider might include:

We will spend 2 to 4 lectures on each topic. Each student will be expected to complete a set of assignments, take the final, and help either grade a homework or take scribe notes for one of the lectures.