I regularly see three myths and misconceptions being advanced by those advocating for the use of blockchain in education. It leaves me wondering if blockchain for learning advocates even understand the underlying technology. For all that seems magical about blockchain technology, I assert it is not – after all – magic.
With Bitcoin as the primary proof-of-concept, there are fascinating and powerful ideas underlying blockchain technology. Fresh from DC Blockchain Summit 2016, here is my current list of the top 10 things you need to know about the future of blockchain in education. Personally, I remain optimistic and can’t wait to see where we will take it. Be sure to share your ideas and questions by leaving a comment on this post.
Conceivably, if blockchain were to help students keep track of and share records of their academic experiences – in brick-and-mortar schools, virtual classes, from other sources – it could add detail and sophistication to efforts to “personalize” education.
While digital badging and its underlying technical approach points a way forward to solving some of the issues associated with a ‘distributed proof of learning’ system, there has emerged another approach that might hold even more promise: blockchain technology.
Citizen science, which empowers individuals to participate in making real-world, real-time discoveries, is being re-made with technology, gamification & cryptocurrency. Learn more about this burgeoning movement at an upcoming White House livestream.
