Knox Professor Pens Book on Writing Computer Programs

By Rana Tahir'13

Knox College Professor John Dooley has authored a new, comprehensive book on writing computer programs.

Dooley holds the William and Marilyn Ingersoll Chair in Computer Science at Knox, and he chairs the College's Department of Computer Science.

Software Development and Professional Practice, published by Apress Inc., is aimed at students and working professionals. Based on Dooley's years of experience in software development and design, the book takes a detailed look at the subject by discussing principles and techniques used to design, analyze, and create software.

The book uses the Java language as it focuses on several areas, such as code construction -- including standards, debugging, unit testing, and modularity. The book places an emphasis on object-oriented design, analysis, and development.

Dooley came to Knox College in 2001. His professional work experience combines 17 years of teaching and 18 years as a software engineer and manager in the private sector. At Knox, Dooley's main teaching interests are software development and security.

He received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Lindenwood College, a Master of Science degree from Syracuse University, and a Master of Electrical Engineering degree from Rice University.

Dooley was named the 2011 Senior Scientist of the Year by the Quad Cities Engineering and Science Council. He is a senior member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers and a senior member of the Association for Computing Machinery.