A Novel Teaching Solution for Operating Systems

Abstract

Traditional teaching process of “Operating Systems” course has many defects, such as divorce between theory and practice, outdated experimental platform, which result in low learning interest and effect on the course. A novel teaching solution for “Operating Systems” course was proposed in this paper. The solution is divided into four layers. First, construct a novel experimental platform based on Ubuntu Linux and Qt Creator. Students can easily design any program with GUI interface under Linux system by applying Qt Library. Second, simulate some critical algorithms in the textbooks. Third, trace Linux kernel code utilizing Qemu virtual machine and Eclipse. By doing so, students may insight about the structure of Linux kernel. Final, modify part of the kernel code and rebuild the kernel. Compared with traditional teaching model, this solution not only provide attractive experimental platform, but also give the chance for looking into Linux kernel. Teaching practice show that this solution can dramatically improve students’ learning interest and practical ability. KeywordsOperating System; education reform; Linux; kernel; Qt Library