Steve Donaldson
Department of Mathematics and Computer Science
Samford University

Gannett Peak, Wyoming
Courses         Education
Research        Activities
Recent Adventures
  
 
 

Courses: Fall, 2008

                                           COSC107 Introduction to Computer Science
                                           COSC200 Discrete Structures for Computer Science
                                           COSC460 Computational Principles of Self-Organization and Emergence
                                                                in Natural and Artificial Systems


<>Other Courses Taught:
Alternative Computational Paradigms
Genetic Algorithms
An Introduction to Neural Networks
Computer Vision
Artificial Intelligence
Principles of Bioinformatics

Senior Seminar and Project
Data Structures and Algorithms
Languages and Theory
Computer Organization and Architecture
Minds, Brains, and Computers
Does God Play Dice With the World?
Cyborgs, Transhumanism, and the Future of Mankind
 

Research

Research Interests:
Artificial intelligence with particular emphasis on artificial neural networks; autonomous systems; interdisciplinary efforts with a cognitive science focus; human cognition; alternative computing paradigms as a foundation for intelligent systems; machine learning; interface between science and Christianity.

Specific Research Areas:
Advanced cognitive behaviors in artificial neural networks
Robotics applications
Student research

Research Philosophy:
Research in general provides anyone with the chance to be the Lewis or Clark of his or her time., and today one of the most exciting and still largely unexplored territories is the realm of human cognition. Understanding the operation of the human brain and capturing its capabilities in an artificial system present some of the most enticing prospects that scientists can face.  Such an endeavor requires interaction with a variety of disciplines, offers the opportunity for personal creativity, and promises to provide worthwhile tools and insights for the betterment of mankind.
 
 

Education

B.S. Samford University (Physics)

B.S. The University of Alabama at Birmingham (Engineering)

M.S. The University of Alabama at Birmingham (Computer Science)

Ph.D. The University of Alabama at Birmingham (Computer Science)
Dissertation:
An Artificial Neural Network for Multilevel Interleaved and Creative Serial Order Cognitive Behavior
 
 

Activities

Family: Carol, Rebecca, Joshua, Matthew, Rachel, Mary Katherine

Church: Dawson Memorial Baptist (teach adult and college Sunday School)

Hobbies: Whitewater kayaking; mountain climbing; backpacking; running; cycling; weight lifting; reading; writing


Tellico River, Tennessee

Steve Donaldson
Associate Professor of Computer Science
Department of Mathematics and Computer Science
326 Russell Hall
Samford University
Birmingham, AL 35229
(205) 726-2447
sfdonald@samford.edu


Granite Peak, Montana