Material created and accumulated by Donald Cowan for research purposes on various topics including automorphisms, data directed design, the fig-FOURTH implementation project, generalized Moore graphs, graphics, networks, Ramsey Theory, and more. Includes copies of articles and papers, correspondence, notes, diagrams, computer printouts, overhead transparencies, and other items.

Printed items written or co-authored by Donald Cowan that were published in various journals, conference proceedings or as separate reports.

Material created and accumulated by Donald Cowan related to articles, papers, and reports that he was writing, co-authoring, or reviewing. Includes manuscripts, notes, correspondence, computer printouts, copies of articles, and other related items.

Records documenting Donald Cowan's activities at the University of Waterloo as a faculty member and administrator in the Department of Computer Science, including his tenure as Chairman of the Department of Applied Analysis and Computer Science. These files also document Donald Cowan's involvement in groups such as the National Research Council of Canada Grant Selection Committee, Centre for Information Technology for the Environment (CITE) as well as the Institute for Computer Studies and the University of Waterloo’s alliance partnership. Includes correspondence, reports, articles, computer printouts, conference materials, notes, grant proposals, and other items.

Material relating to the activities and interests of Donald Cowan, apart from his career at the University of Waterloo. This includes a paper written on the CANDU Reactor transfer functions, a WATCOM annual report, and the Canada's Technology Triangle presentation cover.

Audio-visual materials created and accumulated by Donald Cowan, possibly for research and teaching purposes and presentations. Includes slides, negatives, transparencies, photographs, and audio-cassettes that are primarily related to various aspects of computer science at the University of Waterloo.

Material related to various courses taught by Donald Cowan at the University of Waterloo. Includes student grades, questionnaires, exams, notes, handouts, correspondence, overhead transparencies, teaching slides, and other items.

Material created and and accumulated by Donald Cowan related to various conferences, workshops and seminars including some that he attended or prepared presentations for.