The course consists of three parts.

The "Distributed Systems" part of this course, in addition to provide the basic concept of distributing systems, will focus on two topics: blockchains and distributed agreement (consensus). Students are required to read assigned papers before class so that, when in class, we will basically be discussing the paper to make sure that students understand them. The lectures on distributed agreement will use online, pre-recorded videos. The in-class lecture hour will be used to address students' questions regarding the content. In a nutshell, we won't be sitting in class for 3 hrs every week in the "Distributed Systems" part (for a total of 5 weeks scheduled for the part, including a quiz). Rather, self-motivated study plays a major role in this class.