Interactive Virtual Expert System for Advising (InVEStA)

We propose and develop InVEStA - interactive virtual expert system for advising - to assist undergraduate students and their advisors in providing timely, accurate and conflict-free schedules. The proposed system is based on Java and object-relational database technologies and consists of the database layer, transaction layer, scheduler and the Web-based front-end. The transaction layer transmits requests and data back and forth to the other system components and provides multi-user capabilities. The scheduler provides non-conflicting class schedules based on pre-specified requirements. The front-end provides the client's interface. In this paper we discuss the structure and functionality of the system with particular emphasis on database design and specifics of the scheduling algorithm. Also, we discuss issues related to advising double and multiple majors and to auditing students that change or add majors during the course of their studies. Finally, we discuss some practical issues related to the implementation of the system and its launching in a middle-sized university