Abstract

Modeling is a central concept in computing. In fact, it is hard to think about computer science apart from the models that we use to understand and define problems and build computational solutions. This includes modeling the environments in which machines operate and the humans they interact with. In this talk, I'll review and describe how my academic interests evolved over my Air Force career, reflecting specifically on the convergence of interests in computing, humans, and the models we use to understand both. I'll provide some motivation for studying at the intersection of these areas, and I'll provide examples of work that has been done at this intersection.

About the Speaker

Dr. David Luginbuhl is an Associate Professor of Mathematics and Computer Science and Director of the Computer Science program at Samford University in Birmingham, AL. His 40 years of professional experience as a computer scientist include posts in higher education and in management and leadership in government research and development organizations, both as an Air Force officer and civilian. He has served as a program manager at the Air Force Office of Scientific Research and as Assistant Chief Scientist at the Air Force Research Lab's 711th Human Performance Wing. Besides Samford, Dr. Luginbuhl has taught at the Air Force Institute of Technology, Western Carolina University, and the Air War College. He has published on theory of computation, software engineering, and undergraduate computer science education.