Optimization of student personal course schedules with Evolutionary Algorithms

In this paper we present the optimization part of a course registration system through the web (EvoWebReg). The system consists of three parts. The first one is a web application which allows the students to submit their course preferences to the system’s database, through Internet. The second part is an administrative tool which controls the whole system and allows its smooth operation. The third part is an evolutionary algorithm which is responsible for the optimization of the student course schedules. The schedules are optimized according to the student’s submitted preferences, and the constraints imposed by the department. The results of the experimental tests of the evolutionary algorithm prove that our initial objectives to provide an open generic and effective tool, which can satisfactory implement the course registration procedure, were achieved.