A logic approach to conflict resolution in university timetabling.

Abstract

A computerized timetabling system developed at University of Ottawa is presented. The system is built on a logic programming model which uses first order logic to define first order and second order constraints in timetabling. Information about courses, professors, and student programs is collected for each academic year and used in the process of constructing timetables. The time schedule produced by the system takes into account course conflicts, professor availability, professor teaching preferences, pre-assignments, classroom location choices, and many other important factors that affect its user satisfaction level. Along with the system's ability to include factors such as professor availability, professor teaching preferences and classroom location, the analysis of test results at the University of Ottawa shows a large improvement in the time utilization and seating usage of classrooms, compared to the corresponding timetables that are produced by the traditional manual processes. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)