The focus in this course is on probabilistic algorithms and probabilistic techniques for algorithm analysis.
This course is technically demanding, and will have no formal classes, so the pre-requisites for the course are fairly strict:
The course will primarily take the form of reading assignments with evaluation by exercises. Students will read a chapter (sometimes less) from the textbook each week, we will meet weekly to discuss the contents of the chapter, as well as any problems students had mastering the work in that chapter and doing the associated exercises. I intend to cover at least the first 7 chapters of the book, and hopefully another 2-3 selected chapters from the rest of the book.
Note that this course may have some programming assignments, but the course focus will be theoretical.
Students following this course should register for a module in "Advanced Topics in Computer Science", preferably RW746. If you are already taking/have already taken another module with this code, you can register for RW716. Failing that, you will need to come speak to me so we can make an arrangement. Please let me know which course you are registered for.
Your mark for the course will be based on (a) participation in the discussions at the weekly meetings: students should come prepared with questions, and be willing to tackle problems of other students; and (b) a selection of the weekly exercises. [It is recommended you bring a printout of your problem solutions to each week's meeting.]
If you are interested in taking this course, or want to know more, please contact me.