Blockchain can be simply defined as a distributed digital ledger that keeps track of all
the transactions that have taken place in a secure, chronological
and immutable way using peer-to-peer networking technology. Blockchain
is finding many uses in financial and non-financial applications as evidenced by the dramatic
increase of interest by industry and government . It is believed that blockchain will transform
how the economy works.
The course will cover: Cryptographic primitives, Components of blockchain and its operations, Consensus protocols, Blockchain plaforms (bitcoin, ethereum and hyperledger fabric), Smart contracts, Use cases
(financial and non-financial), and Limitations and misconceptions of blockchain.
The course evaluation consists of a final exam and a project. Students will be assigned (or select with the approval
of the instructor) projects, related to Blockchain, earlier in the session.