By Abhishek Bahl, Founder at JetLearn
Mention the word “blockchain” and it is most likely to be associated with the financial world; it has the potential to transform currency systems and democratise finance for the masses. However, blockchain technology also has the potential to transform many other industries, including education. As a decentralised and secure technology, blockchain can provide a tamper-proof and transparent platform for data management, and address some of the most pressing challenges facing the education sector today. In this article, we explore how blockchain can revolutionise the education sector and the benefits it can bring to largely outdated systems.
Secure and Transparent Data Management
One of the most significant advantages of blockchain is its ability to provide secure and transparent data management. In the education sector, this can be especially useful for storing and sharing student records, transcripts, and other sensitive information. With blockchain, educational institutions can create a tamper-proof system that ensures the authenticity of the data, making it easier to verify and transfer credentials across institutions.
Student Records Management
Another way blockchain can revolutionise the education sector is through credential verification and student records management. With blockchain, students can have complete ownership of their digital credentials, such as diplomas, certificates, and transcripts. These credentials can be securely stored on the blockchain and shared with potential employers, educational institutions, and other relevant stakeholders without the need for intermediaries. This creates a more efficient and trustworthy system for verifying credentials and can help reduce fraudulent activities.
Fraud Prevention and Identity Verification
Fraud prevention and identity verification are other areas where blockchain can make a significant impact. By using blockchain to store student data, educational institutions can create a more secure and transparent system for identity verification. This can be useful in preventing fraudulent activities such as identity theft, plagiarism, and cheating. In addition, blockchain can be used to create a secure and tamper-proof system for voting and other administrative tasks.
Affordable Education for All
Blockchain technology has the potential to reduce the cost of education while providing universal access to educational resources. Publicly available resources such as books, podcasts, and films can be securely and affordably shared on public networks, which can lead to the creation of more affordable and accessible learning opportunities, disrupting the traditional relationship between schools and students. With the help of blockchain technology, the payments for education (e.g. university fees) can be also streamlined and made more efficient, resulting in reduced tuition costs.
A More Efficient Examination Process
Smart contract technology can aid teachers in evaluating exam papers. They can input the exam, which includes queries, responses, and grading criteria, into the blockchain and allow pupils to take the exam via a computer or tablet. The blockchain will then analyse the scores, freeing up more time for educators to complete other responsibilities. Examiners’ evaluations can then be integrated into a student’s permanent academic record, which is safely preserved on the blockchain.
Greater Efficiency in Administrative Tasks
Finally, blockchain can revolutionise the education sector by creating a more efficient system for administrative tasks. By automating tasks such as credential verification, transcript management, and financial aid distribution, educational institutions can free up their resources to focus on more critical activities. This can help reduce administrative costs, increase efficiency, and improve the overall quality of education.
