The use of blockchain technologies to issue and verify micro-credentials for customised educational journeys : presentation of a demonstrator

Abstract

In recent years, a clear trend towards personalised learning experiences has emerged. Individual preferences are in the foreground and should be made possible, for example, through selectable choices. If these courses take place in the same educational institution, the handling of credit and the clear allocation to learning outcomes is usually possible. However, it becomes difficult when the options also extend to courses outside the main educational institution. It is even more difficult when the study opportunities occur, for example, at educational institutions abroad or at businesses with a strong focus on practice. Here, accreditation is often very difficult, dependent on the case and a painstaking process, unless it is regulated by law, for example through the Bologna Process in the case of universities. New ways in adult education go a whole step further, especially via the so-called second-chance education, when the trainee has a choice of often hundreds of possible courses at various educational and vocational institutions. However, the diploma or work permit is ultimately awarded by the authorities and not a specific university or college. This is an ideal example for the concept of micro-credentials or the possibility of partial achievements being made through various channels, whereby each of these microcredentials clearly defines the educational goal that is required and the extent to which this has been achieved by the learner. The most important factor regarding micro-credentials is a standardised form of storage, presentation, verification and approval processes. By discussing a demonstrator, this paper shows how blockchain technologies in combination with digital identities represent a feasible approach to mapping and comparing micro-credentials.