DEVELOPING A CLUSTER SERVER

Given the experience of developing this cluster-computing course along with the advantage of
hindsight, the authors propose a blueprint for developing a cluster computer to be used for MIS
instruction and faculty research. To develop a working cluster requires time - time to gather
equipment donations, support, and to develop a working hands-on knowledge of cluster computing
as the project evolves. Rather than suggest that a faculty member gain a working hands-on
knowledge before attempting to teach cluster computing for the first time, the authors suggest a
developmental course of action. By following a developmental blueprint, faculty can begin by
teaching project management or systems analysis and design at first – slowly converting course
curriculum to clustering topics as the project and the cluster are developed over several semesters.
The authors’ recommendation is to plan on spending two semesters developing a stable cluster
computer as a student team project. Then, use the developed cluster to teach cluster-computing
beginning in the third semester. This gives students experience in project management and system
analysis & design, while allowing them to develop a sense of ownership in the project. This plan
also removes the pressure from the faculty members who might otherwise feel compelled to
quickly learn the material and develop a cluster on their own time, before attempting to teach a
course.