Tyler Helsel

Title: Augmented Reality Using Google Cardboard

Abstract: This presentation will focus around a demonstration of augmented reality software running on an HTC One M8 using Google Cardboard as the virtual reality device. The software will use the on device camera to present the viewer with a live image of the view directly in front of them. On top of this view will be an overlaid GPS map to assist in user positioning as well as a turn by turn navigational system run by Google Maps. In addition to this augmented reality software, a companion application will be present to allow users to customize the user interface and set up locations for turn by turn navigation.

Keywords: augmented reality, software, Google Cardboard, virtual reality

Faculty Adviser: Todd Echterling

Title 1: MUCS Programming Teams

Abstract: Our poster will bring Awareness of the Computer Science Department Programming Team. We will talk about our competitions over the past year as well as talk about how we prepare.

Group Members: Ryan Peterson, Ryan Holt, Mark Donato, Hugh Quinn, Merv Fansler, Steve Zelek, Nicole Seese,, Kyle Hopkins, Shayne McIntosh

 

Title 2: Millersville Cyber Defense Organization

Abstract: Our poster will exhibit the 2 competitions we participate in on a yearly basis. We will also answer questions about how to keep yourself safe online. We will address phishing scams as well as password safety.

Group Members: Shayne McIntosh, Lea Owrutsky, Kevin Piaskowski, Vince Smith, Frank Lacey, Cameron Eller, Kevin Hoerr, Ryan Holt, Lucas Tobin, Kyle Hopkins, Mark Donato, Vince Viggiano, Rick Vivola

Kevin Piaskowski

Title: One and Two-Dimensional Random Walks with One-Step Memory

Abstract: Formalized studies of random walks have been done dating back to the early 20th century. Since then, well-defined conclusions have been drawn, specifically in the case of one and two-dimensional random walks. An important theorem was formulated by George Polya in 1912. He stated that for a one or two-dimensional lattice random walk with infinite number of steps, N, the probability that the walker will return to its point of origin is unity. The work done in this particular research explores Polya’s theorem for one and two-dimensional random walks that are non-isotropic and have the property of one-step memory, i.e. the probability of moving in any direction is non-symmetric and dependent on the previous step. Return probabilities for various memory parameters were explored analytically and via simulations. Currently, further analysis is being done to try and find a relationship between memory parameters and number of steps, N.

Keywords: memory, random walks, two-dimensional

 

Ryan Peterson

Title: Design and Implementation of a 2D Arena Boss Game Using the Unreal Engine

Abstract: With the use of the Unreal Engine and additional programming in C++, it is possible for an independent designer to implement a complete game. To accomplish this, we research ed concepts of game design, creat ed the code, and us ed assistant functionality built into the Unreal Engine to execute a unique game of our own design. In doing so, we achieved familiarity with both the Unreal Engine and the C++ language and experienced all stages of the software development life cycle. A player character with six different possible actions was implemented, along with three arenas with a distinct enemy in each. Two boss enemies utilized different intelligent decision making strategies for movement and attacking.

Keywords: Computer Science, Game Design, Game Development

 

Emmali Montgomery

Title: Lack of Women in Computer Science: Assessing the Educational Influences of STEM Majors

Abstract: There has been a consistent lack on women within the Computer Science field. Society has worked to try and boost the numbers in all STEM fields, however, Computer Science continues to fall. The large question is why those numbers are falling rather than increasing like all other STEM fields. One of the reasons, of which this paper will discuss more thoroughly, is the educational influence of these majors. Evaluating this influence in the classroom will allow for further discussion on how any negative influences can be eradicated or improved to allow for an increase of women in Computer Science.

Keywords: Computer, Science, STEM, educational influences, education, infuence, lack of women, women

Shayne McIntosh

Title: Optimizing the Multi-class Perceptron through Parameter Tuning and GPU Utilization T

Abstract: Artificial neural networks are biologically influenced models which serve as a common tool for data analysis. They produce state-of-the-art results in machine learning fields such as computer vision and speech recognition. Artificial Neural Networks are complex probabilistic models. Training them is computationally expensive. Consequently, optimization and trade-off management are paramount. Optimization methods can generally>be arranged into two groups, algorithmic advantage and computing power or hardware advantage. This paper presents data associated with simple optimization methods from both groups for a multinomial logistic regression>network. GPU utilization provides hardware or computing power advantage and parameter tuning methods provide algorithmic advantage. Learning is conducted on the MNIST data set. Its assessment is meant to provide intuition for novice network optimization and training.

Keywords: Cost, hyperplane, epochs, learning rate, batch size

Joseph Asbury

Title: Does Prior Knowledge in Programming Increase Success for Students Pursuing a Computer Science Degree at Millersville?

Abstract: How does prior programming experience affect those who attempt a computer science degree at Millersville University? Does it skew results in class, and if it does, does it do so positively or negatively? Are students at a disadvantage and penalized by default if they do not know a programming language? And if this is an equity problem, can and should it be fixed in any way, allowing for equal opportunity? Some MU students will be interviewed with their levels of experience and how it has affected them, and MU’s computer science history will be analyzed.

Keywords: programming, coding