Blockchain Foundations

Course details

The "Blockchain Foundations" course offers a deep dive into the core concepts of blockchain technology, exploring its origin, importance, and potential impact across various sectors. Students will be introduced to the mechanics of blockchain, decentralization, and the revolutionary aspects of this technology in ensuring transparency and security.

Start Date

TBD

Target Audience

Undergraduate students venturing into the world of blockchain, with or without a prior technical background.

Duration

14-15 weeks

Learning Objectives

Comprehend the foundational principles and history of blockchain.
Understand the difference between centralized and decentralized systems.
Learn about consensus algorithms, cryptography, and their role in blockchain.
Grasp the concept of smart contracts and decentralized applications (DApps).
Explore real-world applications and case studies of blockchain across industries.

Key Features

Interactive lectures detailing the blockchain ecosystem.
Workshops on blockchain tools and platforms.
Guest lectures from industry experts and blockchain entrepreneurs.
Collaborative projects to design simple blockchain systems.
Access to resources via the LMS, including whitepapers, articles, and case studies.

Learning path

Unit 1: Blockchain Basics (4)
Unit 2: Deep Dive into Blockchain (6)
Unit 3: Smart Contracts & DApps (4)
Unit 4: Blockchain in Practice (4)
Unit 5: Advanced Blockchain Topics (4)
Unit 6: Hands-On & Workshops (6)

Topics covered

Introduction to Blockchain: Evolution and Significance.
Centralization vs. Decentralization.
How Does Blockchain Work? An Overview.
Key Terminologies: Nodes, Miners, and Ledgers.

Structure of a Block.
Consensus Algorithms: Proof of Work & Proof of Stake.
Introduction to Cryptography in Blockchain.
Blockchain Networks: Public, Private & Consortium.
Forks: Soft and Hard.
Limitations and Challenges in Blockchain.

Basics of Smart Contracts.
Development, Deployment, and Use Cases.
Introduction to Decentralized Applications.
Platforms for DApp Development.

Blockchain in Finance: Cryptocurrencies.
Blockchain in Supply Chain & Logistics.
Blockchain in Healthcare.
Use Cases in Real Estate, Identity Verification & More.

Interoperability in Blockchain.
Layer 2 Solutions & Scaling.
Introduction to DAOs (Decentralized Autonomous Organizations).
Future of Blockchain: Trends & Predictions.

Setting Up a Personal Blockchain.
Transaction Verification & Mining.
Workshop on Smart Contract Development.
Building a Simple DApp.
Exploring Ethereum & Other Platforms.
Wrap-up and Review Session.

Grading:

Class Participation: 10%
Weekly Assignments: 30%
Group Project: 20%
Mid-Term Examination: 20%
Final Examination: 20%

Reading Material: Essential readings on blockchain principles and advanced topics, complemented by whitepapers and research articles. Supplementary materials available on the LMS.

Assignments: A combination of theoretical exercises and hands-on tasks involving blockchain platforms.

Faculty: A renowned academic with a blend of theoretical and practical experience in blockchain technology.

Teaching Instructors: TBD