When employed in a technical field, you must keep abreast of the latest trends and technologies. Information can come from many sources: vendors, trade magazines and publications, technology conferences and trade shows, etc.

Communication Skills are critical in todays computing fields: both Information Technology and Systems work requires clear written and oral communication.The ACM and IEEE Computer Curriculum 2001 states that

A widely-heard theme among employers is that computer scientists must be able to communicate effectively with colleagues and clients. Because of the importance of good communication skills in nearly all computing careers, computer science students must sharpen their oral and writing skills in a variety of contexts—both inside and outside of computer science courses. In particular, students in computer science programs should be able to:

• Communicate ideas effectively in written form
• Make effective oral presentations, both formally and informally
• Understand and offer constructive critiques of the presentations of others

To that goal, in class presentations will give you the opportunity to research a topic, synthesize the information and report back to the class.

Browse several sources related to your topic.

Select three sources to read thoroughly. At least two must be from trade journals and one of those two from an ACM publication.

Give a 10-15 minute presentation on your topic, and be prepared to answer questions about what you have read.

Your presentation must be supplemented with visual material: images, animations, or demo software.

You will be asked to critique your peers' presentations.

Please provide, in writing, three multiple choice questions which cover important material in your talk. These should not be trick questions, but should be answerable by an attentive listener.