Grades: This is no ordinary course, so traditional assessment methods (exams, problem sets, etc.) don't make much sense. Since we do have to deal with grades, I would like to propose the following grading system.
You will go into the course with an A grade and it is up to you to keep it or lose it. You can keep the A through continuous participation and engagement in the project. Participation includes, but is not limited to, attendance at all class/team meetings, involvement in class/team discussions, readiness to give short informal presentations when needed, staying current with course readings, and keeping up-to-date with the overall progress of the project. This policy admittedly is a bit subjective, but it can work if I am in constant communication with each student. Please let me know when you are out of town or unable to attend class meetings. Let me know if you are not content with your assignment or the work you are doing or your responsibilities. Ask if you want my impressions of where you stand in the course and don't hesitate to correct my impressions. When in doubt about any aspect of the course, please call or email me immediately.
Final thought: Here is the real point. This is an exciting, wide-open project with plenty of opportunity for valuable mathematics, publications, long-term research projects and future jobs. There is something in it for everyone. The project can be a great success if we are working to the best of our individual abilities and as an effective team. Please decide now whether or not you share this vision of the project. If you do, let's get started.