CS93: Systems Security, Spring 2016

Directed Reading Info

Meetings: Monday/Friday 10:30 AM - 11:20 AM in the CS seminar room
Professor: Kevin Webb

Expectations

This directed reading was created because a few students wanted to discuss security topics, and no such course currently exists in our curriculum. The expectation is that participants are eager to learn about security and participate in discussions. This directed reading will only be offered with a half credit, CR/NC option. To get a grade of CR, you will be expected to:

  1. Periodically lead the discussion of a paper. This includes:
    • A 15 to 20-minute presentation on the essence of the paper. This can be slides, writing on the board, etc., but come prepared. Must-include topics: a short description of author and publication venue context (when applicable), a characterization of the problem and other relevant background information, a description of the major findings / conclusions of the paper, and an overview of the important things the authors did to reach those conclusions (usually there are 2-3 major contributions).

    • Your commentary: What are two+ things that you found most interesting or liked best? What are two+ things that you're skeptical of, didn't care for, or found to be incomplete?

    • Discussion questions: Pose questions for the rest of us to discuss.

    • Clarification questions: Ask about anything that was unclear.

  2. Actively participate in the discussion of papers during our meeting time. This includes:
    • Bring a marked/annotated/highlighted copy of the paper to class with you.

    • Mark anything that *you* think is a good candidate for any of the items above.

    • Mark anything that you want clarification about.

    • Participate in the discussion of items above, ask questions, and be present.

Schedule

This is a tentative schedule; it may change as we go.

Academic Accommodations

If you believe that you need accommodations for a disability, please contact Leslie Hempling in the Office of Student Disability Services (Parrish 113) or email lhempli1 to arrange an appointment to discuss your needs. As appropriate, she will issue students with documented disabilities a formal Accommodations Letter. Since accommodations require early planning and are not retroactive, please contact her as soon as possible. For details about the accommodations process, visit the Student Disability Service website.

To receive an accommodation for a course activity, you must have an Accommodation Authorization letter from Leslie Hempling and you need to meet with me to work out the details of your accommodation at least one week prior to the activity.

You are also welcome to contact me privately to discuss your academic needs. However, all disability-related accommodations must be arranged through Leslie Hempling in the Office Of Student Disability Services.

Links that are related to the course may be posted here. If you have suggestions for links, let me know.