An approach is described for introducing practical work experience into an undergraduate computer science curriculum. This approach differs from others which have been reported in that it is not necessary for the student to make any arrangements for academic credit in advance. The requirements for obtaining practicum credit are described, and examples of projects which have received such credit are given. This approach has made a significant contribution to the educational program by offering academic credit for learning experiences which are difficult to duplicate in a typical computer science curriculum.

Due to several complementary technological advances related to computer systems, there has lately been an increased interest in the architecture of computers. This increased interest has forced changes in and additions to the computer science curriculum. In this paper, an academic program is described which has been found to be highly successful in terms of student interest and learning. The role of computer architecture in this program is explored, and conclusions are drawn regarding this role.

Microprogrammed computers are categorized by main memory/control storage (CS) organization for use in analysis of methods of allowing dynamic user microprogramming. A system design is described in which user microroutines are executed directly from main memory, rather than from writable control storage (WCS). This design is analyzed and compared with the use of WCS for allowing dynamic user microprogramming in a multiprogramming system. It is shown that the use of main memory for microprogram residence is a viable alternative in many user job environments.