This is the archived Spring 2015 version of the course. For the most recent version, see http://bitcoin-class.org.

Problem Set 0

Due: 11:59pm on Tuesday, 13 January.

Purpose

The goals of this assignment are to:

Get everyone in the class started thinking about cryptocurrency.
Make sure everyone reads the course syllabus and knows what is expected of them in the class.
Collect survey information about students in the class.

Collaboration Policy. For this assignment, everyone should submit their own assignment. You may work with others to discuss the readings and questions, and get help from anyone you want on setting up the software, but should submit your own answers.

Assignment

Read: Course Syllabus
Read: The Magic of Mining, The Economist, 10 January 2015.
Read: Chapter 1: Introduction and Chapter 2: How Bitcoin Works from Andreas M. Antonopoulos, Mastering Bitcoin: Unlocking Digital Cryptocurrencies book (also available in print).
Setup a bitcoin wallet (if you don't already have one, MultiBit is a good choice for this). After creating a wallet, you should find the Recieving Address which you will need for one of the questions. Note that it is not necessary now, or at any time during this class, for you to actually buy bitcoins with your own money. If you are inclined to do this, be careful, and don't use any funds you cannot afford to lose!

Deliverable

Submit the form below (also avaible as direct link):