Utilizing Blockchain Technology for Online Learning
Concurrent Session 4
Brief Abstract
Blockchain technology is increasingly being used in business, healthcare, education, and law, which it is becoming important for students to be aware of the technology. By implementing Blockchain concepts into online curriculum students will have basic knowledge of the technology.
Presenters
Extended Abstract
This presentation is designed for those interested in gaining basic knowledge of Blockchain technology and how to implement the concept in an online learning management system. Since Blockchain technology is rapidly changing many aspects of finance, education, law, healthcare, and government agencies, students will need an introduction to the technology as they prepare for the workforce. By creating a curriculum that introduces students to Blockchain technology, students will be engaged and have the opportunity to research and learn more about the technology.
Blockchain technology has been widely associated with the technology that drives cryptocurrency, yet it is also the technology that is changing many aspects of business interactions, which includes the academic environment. For instance, the American Library Association’s Center for the Future of Libraries published a series of books regrading the latest trends in the field of Librarianship that included Blockchain. Alman and Hirsh (2019) noted the impact that Blockchain will have in regard to services, such as the ability to access information across various libraries through digital identities. In addition, Blockchain has the ability to decentralize library services that includes interlibrary loans (Alman & Hirsh, 2019; Paganelli & Paganelli, 2021).
The technology is currently changing many aspects of businesses and government agencies. Through the use of Blockchain, organizations are transforming complicated transactions and decentralizing former centralized systems. For example, Blockchain can reduce the time in the purchase of property by removing expensive centralized entities that includes “brokers, government agency databases, title companies, insurance and property databases, escrow companies, inspectors and appraisers, and notary companies” (Bambara & Allen, 2018, p. 28).
Because of this change, educators have the opportunity to introduce students to Blockchain technology, while engaging students with relevant workforce information. Participants will learn the basics of Blockchain technology and review a lesson plan that implements the technology for students in an online learning management system. The curriculum is a design of several online learning modules that students are able to complete at their own pace. The lesson plans are to support ccurriculum based on the Blockchain technology concept.