PROTOTYPE-BASED LANGUAGES

OVERVIEW

Prototype-based languages are now ready for wider recognition within the object-oriented community. They are not "new"; indeed several large-scale systems have already been developed. However, overall, their usage remains largely confined to research groups. It is now an appropriate time to consolidate the theory and practice of employing "prototypes". There is much to discuss! For example, several different models have been proposed. In addition, there are very few recorded experiences of implementing applications using prototype-based languages.

GOALS

This workshop will bring together interested parties to consider the evolution of prototype-based languages to date and also their future developments. It is hoped that discussions may lead, inter alia, to (i) identification of topics for future collaborative research and (ii) strategies to enhance the profile of these languages in the object-oriented community "at large".

FOCUS

First we will assess the "state of the art". Possible topics of contribution include, but are not limited to:

a historical perspective on the evolution of the "prototype"
practical experiences of design, implementation or use of such languages
comparison with other models of representation/programming

Next we will ponder future developments of prototype-based languages. Possible topics of contribution include, but are not limited to:

software engineering issues ( i.e. how will one design, implement, test and maintain a prototype-based "application" ? )
identifying "appropriate" application domains
using these languages to teach object theory and programming

REQUIREMENTS FOR ATTENDANCE

Anyone with an interest in prototype-based languages is welcome to contribute to the workshop. Prospective participants should submit a 3-5 page position paper to the submissions person below by 5 August 1996. The preferred method of submission is electronic mail in either Postscript or ASCII format. Notification of acceptance will be no later than 20 August 1996.

ORGANISERS

Iain Tulloch, University of Strathclyde
Sean Levy, CMU

SUBMISSIONS SHOULD BE SENT TO:

Mr. Iain Tulloch
University of Strathclyde
Department of Computer Science
26 Richmond Street
Glasgow 
G1 1XH
Scotland
United Kingdom

Telephone: +44 [141] 552 4400 ext 4301
Fax:       +44 [141] 552 5330
Email:     imt@cs.strath.ac.uk