A local area network of graphic-oriented microcomputers, a database server machine, document scanning and printing devices, and software is being configured as a laboratory model of a small office system together with capabilities for software development. The laboratory supports instruction of computer science in three areas: (i) office system development: hands-on experience using and developing systems for a "real" office environment; (ii) software engineering: use of graphic CASE (Computer Aided Software Engineering) tools including prototyping tools; and (iii) human-machine interaction: development of software using visual forms and direct- manipulation, input and processing of forms, pictures, and voice data, and use and development of systems for collaborative work. The laboratory supports junior and senior level laboratory-oriented courses in the three subject areas for majors in computing and information sciences, and electrical and computer engineering. Students in the office automation laboratory serve as "users" of software for the software development laboratories. Office software includes desktop publishing, electronic messaging, and a shared information system for personnel and accounting data. This laboratory provides undergraduate computing science experience from program development to information systems development.
