CS492/692 - Winter 2019 - Assignment 4
Cryptocurrencies
Description
Cryptocurrencies have been with us for almost 10 years, since the dawn
of Bitcoin. While there are many ways in which computerization has been
introduced in order to alter the face of banking today, it is fair to say
that cryptocurrencies are not standardly used by customers and organizations.
The purpose of this assignment is to have students learn more about the
evolution of cryptocurriencies, the social implications that have arisen
from their introduction and the expectations for the future.
For this assignment you will be working in groups of 4 (with groups
being formed by the instructor and the TAs, in an effort to balance
the talents of the students of the class). You will be asked to
produce a report which covers the following topics: (i) what are
cryptocurrencies? (ii) what are some of the possible benefits
of cryptocurrencies and what current problems may they address?
(iii) what are some of the most important
concerns with cryptocurrencies? (iv) what would you recommend
for the future and who should be involved in deciding the future
of cryptocurrencies? Be concrete and detailed with recommendations.
Include as well your conclusions about whether this technology is
likely to persist or merely fade away (clarifying the reasons why
you feel this is the case).
The assignment is due on Thursday Mar 14 at 10am. It should be on
the order of 2500 words. (Some kind of introduction and conclusion
should be included, in addition to the coverage of the four core
subtopics listed above).
Purpose
Cryptocurrencies have persisted, even if they have not been standardly
adopted by everyone. Because of this, it is important to examine
the role that they are playing and what lies ahead for the future,
in order to address societal impacts for individuals, organizations
and government.
The focus for this assignment is on open-ended thinking, guided by
current articles on the topic. There is no right or wrong answer.
Students are urged to be creative and constructive in their
recommendations.