Blockchain-based decentralised micro-accreditation for lifelong learning

Abstract

Today’s fast-paced economy and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the job market have made more prominent the need for flexible accreditation and lifelong learning. This paper introduces a novel approach for supporting lifelong learning using Smart Badges as Blockchain-based decentralised micro-accreditation. The implementation of this approach is based on granular verification, which has been achieved via LinkChains MerQL. A user evaluation has been conducted with stakeholders from the education community, the results of which have indicated the strengths and weaknesses of this approach. Liaising with stakeholders from the education community has provided valuable insights into the different aspects of lifelong learning that require support, as well as into the training needs of the education community related to the use of decentralisation technologies.