A mixed-integer programming approach to a class timetabling problem: A case study with gender policies and traffic considerations

被引:34
作者
Al-Yakoob, Salem M.
Sherali, Hanif D.
机构
[1] Kuwait Univ, Coll Sci, Dept Math & Comp Sci, Safat 13060, Kuwait
[2] Virginia Polytech Inst & State Univ, Grado Dept Ind & Syst Engn, Blacksburg, VA 24061 USA
基金
美国国家科学基金会;
关键词
timetabling; class scheduling; mixed-integer programming; aggregation;
D O I
10.1016/j.ejor.2006.04.035
中图分类号
C93 [管理学];
学科分类号
12 [管理学]; 1201 [管理科学与工程]; 1202 [工商管理学]; 120202 [企业管理];
摘要
This paper considers the class scheduling and timetabling problem faced at Kuwait University (KU). The principal focus is to design efficient class offering patterns while taking into consideration newly imposed gender policies. We formulate a mathematical programming model that assigns offered classes to time-slots and addresses gender issues by defining appropriate surrogate constraints along with objective penalty terms. The model aims to enhance existing manual scheduling and timetabling approaches that are often accompanied with arduous combinatorial tasks such as resolving class conflicts, dealing with parking and traffic congestion, and ensuring an efficient utilization of facility and human resources. This modeling approach emphasizes the generation of flexible class timetables for students, and the efficient utilization of available facility resources. Computational results based on a number of case studies related to Kuwait University reveal that this approach yields improved schedules in terms of offering patterns and class conflicts. (c) 2006 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
引用
收藏
页码:1028 / 1044
页数:17
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