Creating a great e-learning platform can require many things from having the right code to listening to the client to achieve all their goals. One thing that everyone might not think about is the benefit that a blockchain can have on an e-learning platform. Why is this not considered? In this blog we shall cover a basic approach which is – “The role of the blockchain in e-learning”. We shall look at a refresher of what is blockchain technology followed by how it applies to e-learning with a quick exploration into some areas of interest that I think you need to be aware of. Shall we start piecing the blocks together?  

What is blockchain? 

Blockchain is a game changer! It is an advanced type of database that allows for information to flow more efficiently while ensuring enhanced transparency and security within an information-sharing business chain. The premise of blockchain is this, blockchain organises data in a unique structure called a “chain-like link”. Here, data is stored in blocks that are linked in a sequence. This means that each block is dependent on the previous one, forming a continuous, chronological chain. For example, changes or additions made in block A directly impact subsequent blocks i.e. B to C, C to D… This structure not only facilitates a clear flow of information but also provides a reliable way to trace and verify data. 

What makes blockchain special? Blockchain is distinguished by its decentralised and consensus-driven nature. Whereas traditional systems have a central authority which controls data modifications, blockchain requires agreement from most of the network participants to validate and implement changes. This ensures that any alterations to the data are transparent and tamper-resistant, making unauthorised changes nearly impossible. Let’s push the box forward and apply it to our theme of e-learning.  

How does this apply to e-learning? 

When you think of blockchain, you will go to yourself – this system is great for payments and cryptocurrencies? – You would be correct, but blockchains can be used in banking and finance. However, it can also be used to support and create a more comprehensive service depending on your domain. Focussing on our theme of e-learning let’s have a quick look at areas where blockchain and e-learning can combine.  

Data structure 

In blockchain-based systems, the aforementioned structured in a chain effect,” comes into the play, i.e. the A to B to C chain. When applied to e-learning platforms, this structure offers a robust way to organise and safeguard critical information. Take this example, a blockchain can securely store user progress, completed courses, certifications, and assessments. By having data connected in this way as mentioned above, the platform ensures that records are accurate, traceable, and free from being tampered with, which is crucial for maintaining credibility in educational systems.  

This resilience is especially important given the sensitive nature of the data handled by e-learning systems, such as user credentials, course content, and personal information. Blockchain technology enhances the reliability and consistency of the platform by preventing unauthorised access or data breaches, ensuring that learning continues uninterrupted. In addition, blockchain can support transparent tracking of a learner’s achievements and credentials, allowing institutions and employers to verify qualifications seamlessly. Hence why you as someone wanting blockchain in your e-learning service have got to be considering integrating this state-of-the-art approach into your e-learning app or website. It is allowing you to have a secure, efficient, and trustworthy environment that fosters confidence among users and stakeholders alike. 

Access to education 

The access to education is greatly increased by the blockchain. How? – Building on the point of the improved and secure data structure, we can take these safe and secure systems. Then take them to other locations to allow people the opportunity to study to standards set in the first well-known location. This can then create a global standard that is open to everyone whilst increasing access for the same people, allowing for talent to grow around the world to the set standards that everyone agrees on.  

Keeping people engaged 

With more people gaining access to learning apparatus. The point of retention will arise for people, how will people, who are using the service be motivated to use the app continuously? Having a monetised or token based financial system is a positive way to keep people. If we take the example of Duolingo, a well-known e-learning app that encourages learning languages, math and music. Some of the features in this app range from goal setting (how many minutes a day), to connecting with friends and sharing progress in your learning journey and competing in leagues.  

However, one feature that stands out is the gamification. Making the learning experience one where the learner is engaged through in fun challenges is a proven way to keep focused, when they succeed in games, the learner gets tokens as a sign of succeeding. That token-based system is one of the key factors in retaining learners, they feel a sense of achievement for their work and blockchain helps this. Having developed your learning app with blockchain features where you can guarantee the security and then allow users to take their game tokens forward into something such as purchasing cryptocurrencies or a marketplace, allows the motivated learner to see the effects of learning paying towards something they want. 

Conclusion  

Now, what I have given you is small step into the blockchain world, regarding its applications to e-learning. As explained blockchain is this clever system which shares data in this secure method that offers clear transparency to allow involved in the business sharing network. Its applications are wide ranging for e-learning and from the 3 suggested parts above are just some formats which benefit from the token-based gamification to improve data structures. After reading this, you are going to need a company with specialised knowledge in blockchain creation and e-learning systems, fortunately zen8labs is your one stop for all, this is the place where we always build something awesome together! 

Jared Baker, Accounts manager