A research-oriented course on Advanced Multicore Architecture: Contents and active learning methodologies

• Published in: Journal of parallel and distributed computing Vol. 105; pp. 63 - 72
• Main Authors: Petit, Salvador, Sahuquillo, Julio, Gómez, María E., Selfa, Vicent
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Inc 01-07-2017
• Subjects: Advanced computer architecture courses; Lab sessions; Research-oriented method; Teaching methods; 99-00; Teaching methods; Research-oriented method; 00-01; Advanced computer architecture courses; Lab sessions
• ISSN: 0743-7315; 1096-0848
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jpdc.2017.01.011

The fast evolution of multicore processors makes it difficult for professors to offer computer architecture courses with updated contents. To deal with this shortcoming that could discourage students, the most appropriate solution is a research-oriented course based on current microprocessor industry trends. Additionally, we also seek to improve the students’ skills by applying active learning methodologies, where teachers act as guiders and resource providers while students take the responsibility for their learning. In this paper, we present the Advanced Multicore Architecture (AMA) course, which follows a research-oriented approach to introduce students in architectural breakthroughs and uses active learning methodologies to enable students to develop practical research skills such as critical analysis of research papers or communication abilities. To this end five main activities are used: (i) lectures dealing with key theoretical concepts, (ii) paper review & discussion, (iii) research-oriented practical exercises, (iv) lab sessions with a state-of-the-art multicore simulator, and (v) paper presentation. An important part of all these activities is driven by active learning methodologies. Special emphasis is put on the practical side by allocating 40% of the time to labs and exercises. This work also includes an assessment study that analyzes both the course contents and the used methodology (both of them compared to other courses).
•An advanced multicore architecture course is presented.•The course follows a research-oriented approach to introduce architectural breakthroughs.•A large part of the course is devoted to active learning methods for practical research skills.•The learning goals, the contents, and the teaching methods are extensively discussed.•An assessment study that analyzes both the course contents and the used methodology is included.