The best aspects of this course included the practical topics and the efficient professor. Students enjoyed the exposure to real-world cryptographic applications and demonstrations by a great professor. The worst aspects of the course included the slow grading and lack of feedback on assignments. The course would improve if students had timely feedback on their assignments and if there was a little more structure to the entire class. Prospective students should have a background in cryptography and be ready for the challenge that this course offers.

This course explored up-to-date crypto stories and recent attacks on cryptographic protocols. At the beginning of each class, the instructor would ask the class about what was happening in the world of cryptography and he usual y spent about half of class time discussing that. Grades were not returned until half way through the semester and it seemed that the instructor didn’t have time to teach this course. He missed eight classes and he didn’t respond to emails or have available office hours. Suggestions for improvement include: more practical assignments, better organization, feedback on tests and assignments, and slowing down on the math portion. This class was difficult, so prospective student should have a mathematical background.

The best aspects of the course included the broad exposure to issues surrounding privacy rights and protections. Students appreciated the breadth of topics covered as well as the organization of the readings and course materials. Some students suggested that the interactive nature of the class was occasionally counterproductive when only a few students were active participants in the class. Some students suggested that rearranging the classroom might help facilitate better participation. Prospective students should be prepared for a heavy reading load and to gain a solid background in the historical and present-day issues surrounding privacy.