Research Journal of Educational Studies and Review

Research Paper|Published November 2024|Vol. 9 (1):1-8.

https://doi.org/10.36630/rjesr_24011

 

Optimizing Timetable Generation, Hall Distribution, and Seating Arrangement using Improved Constraint Satisfaction Techniques

 

Oduntan OE*,  Akinode JL, Ramon R, Adegoke FO and Adedokun A

 

Department of Computer Science, School of Pure and Applied Sciences, Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro, Ogun State, Nigeria.

 

ABSTRACT

In academic environments with limited resources and infrastructure, efficient scheduling is essential for conducting successful examinations. The challenge of optimizing timetables, hall distribution, and seating allocation is a complex and unavoidable task in such settings. This research addresses these critical challenges, focusing on the difficulties and inefficiencies that arise from managing multiple constraints, such as room capacity, course requirements, and institutional preferences. This study introduces an optimized approach to enhance the effectiveness of timetabling, hall distribution, and seating arrangements. A specific focus was placed on the Weighted Constraint Satisfaction Problem (WCSP), a method used to address these challenges by incorporating all relevant constraints and preferences. The research is supported by a fully developed software tool that implements these solutions. This tool integrates dynamic algorithms capable of adapting to varying institutional needs and ensuring real-time optimization of timetables, hall assignments, and seating arrangements. The research demonstrates significant improvements in reducing scheduling conflicts, optimizing space utilization, and aligning with institutional preferences. Comparative analyses reveal that the advanced methods surpass traditional approaches in both speed and accuracy, providing a robust solution for institutions aiming to streamline their scheduling processes. This work contributes to the field by offering a scalable and practical solution that is adaptable to various educational contexts, setting the stage for further research in constraint satisfaction and educational resource management.

Key Words: Allocation, Examination, Optimization, Weighted Constraint Satisfaction Problem, Scheduling.

 

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