Use of Genetic Algorithms

I decided to drive to campus this morning so I left here at 7 AM to get a decent parking spot. We had some thundershowers in the early morning and I was nervous about walking in that kind of weather. This evening it looks really rough outside, but we only have periodic sprinkling. I'm seeing flash flood warnings and tornado watches all over the area. I hope the lights don't go out, I'm not prepared and I REALLY need to study some more for the Econ mid term tomorrow.

In our Seminar class this afternoon a PhD grad from last fall presented his dissertation research. His research was in using a Genetic Algorithm (GA)--remember what that is? Using genetics to model optimization of something--to create effective warning signs. I'm always surprised at the ways that these optimization algorithms are used. Usually the computer calculates the success of the algorithm over some number of generations. He used focus groups to evaluate the success of the created signs. It broadened my view of how these techniques can be used. I find this fascinating.

Then late this afternoon I met with Dr. Maghsoodloo about taking his reliability engineering class this summer. He was encouraging, at least in part because he needs 8 students for the class to be taught and he only has 5 that he knows of. At any rate, he's going to help me one-on-one to review the probability and statistics I need to be ready for the class. I have two assignments over the break and he loaned me his copy of the book. How in the world will I add this to what I'm already doing?