Overview and Objectives
The objective of this senior-year capstone project is to design and implement an interactive set of tutorials aimed at teaching high school students the principles of zero-knowledge proofs (ZKPs).
Zero-knowledge proofs are cryptographic protocols that allow one party to prove to another that a given statement is true, without conveying any additional information. The complexity of this subject makes it a challenging yet rewarding endeavor for educational dissemination. This project requires a nuanced understanding of ZKPs, pedagogical strategies, and interactive design methodologies. The ultimate goal is to translate intricate cryptographic concepts into an accessible and engaging educational experience that resonates with high school learners. Initially, the project may leverage existing tools and platforms to support introductory lab exercises. However, the primary focus will be on original content creation and instructional design.
Scope and Expectations
The project will be structured into two main phases. The first phase involves the creation of introductory tutorials, which will serve as foundational building blocks, covering the basics of ZKPs. Existing tools, frameworks, and libraries may be utilized in this phase to provide hands-on exercises and interactive demonstrations. The second phase requires a transition to more advanced topics, such as Non-Interactive Zero-Knowledge Proofs (NIZKs), zk-SNARKs, and applications in blockchain technology. These advanced labs must extend beyond the utilization of existing tools, requiring the design of custom interactive elements, simulations, or exercises that deepen the learner’s understanding of these complex concepts.
1. PONDER on the societal and ethical aspects of your project.
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What are the ethical implications of your project?
How does your project affect society at large?
2. DESCRIBE benefits to the common good that is served by your project.
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What are the positive outcomes of your project?
How does it benefit the community or society?
3. INCLUDE any potential drawbacks that you can think of.
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Are there any negative implications?
Could your project inadvertently harm certain communities or
environments?
4. CONSIDER effects on health & safety, social justice, economy, environment,
education.
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Enumerate how your project affects each of these areas, both
positively and negatively.
5. EXPLAIN with a sample use-case for your project.
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Provide a detailed scenario where your project is applied and what
its impacts would be.
6. UPLOAD your narrative in the form of a report.
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The report should be 3-5 pages, single-spaced, with 1-inch margins,
and a 12-point font.