Abstract:
This project focuses on designing, developing, and evaluating Lecture Link, a web-based
platform intended to connect Sri Lankan academic institutions with qualified visiting
lecturers. Targeting the higher education sector, the system addresses the challenges of
lecturer recruitment by implementing a requirement-driven matchmaking mechanism based
on lecturer expertise, subject compatibility, and institutional standards.
The main purpose of the software is to streamline lecturer selection processes, reduce full
time staff workload, and enhance teaching quality through a responsive, scalable, and
secure platform. It enables institutions to register, post subject requirements, and match with
suitable visiting lecturers, while lecturers can manage profiles and express interest in
academic opportunities.
The backend of the application is built using Java Spring Boot, leveraging technologies such
as Hibernate ORM, MySQL database, Firebase Storage for file management, Spring
Security for authentication, and JavaMailSender for notifications. Machine learning
functionalities, including lecturer prediction, are powered by a separate Python Flask API
using Scikit-learn, Pandas, NumPy, and Joblib. Communication between the backend and
the AI API is achieved via RESTful services.
The frontend is developed using React with TypeScript and styled using Tailwind CSS,
ensuring a user-friendly and mobile-responsive interface. API interactions on the frontend
are managed via Axios. The application is aimed at cross-platform compatibility, being
accessible through all major web browsers on Windows, macOS, and Linux systems.
This project combines modern web development practices, cloud integration, AI-assisted
matching, and secure data management to create a sustainable solution for academic
resource optimization in Sri Lanka.
