Investigating the Requirements for Building a Blockchain- Based Achievement Record System (2007.02162v1)

Abstract: A trusted achievement record is a secure system that aims to record and authenticate certificates as well as key learning activities and achievements. This paper intends to gather important information on the thoughts and outlooks of stakeholders on an achievement record system that uses blockchain and smart contract technology. The system would allow stakeholders (for example employers) to validate learning records. Two main aims are investigated. The first is to evaluate the suitability of the idea of building a trusted achievement record for learners in higher education, and to evaluate potential user knowledge of blockchain technology. This is to ensure that a designed system is usable. The second aim includes an interview conducted with a small group of participants to gather information about the challenges individuals have when creating, and reviewing CVs. Overall, 90% of participants agreed that there was a strong need for a trusted achievement record. In addition, 93.64% of respondents stated that they felt it was invaluable to have a system that is usable by all stakeholders. When tackling the second aim it was found that a primary challenge is lack of knowledge of blockchain and its complexity. From the employers' perspective, there is a lack of trust due to inaccuracies when students describe skills and qualifications in their resumes.

• The paper identifies blockchain technology as a viable solution to prevent credential fraud in academic and professional records.
• The mixed-methods research, including questionnaires and interviews, reveals strong support for trusted records despite limited blockchain awareness.
• Implications include standardizing CV formats and enhancing validation processes, with future work focusing on user-friendly blockchain interfaces.

Analyzing the Requirements for a Blockchain-Based Achievement Record System

The paper "Investigating the Requirements for Building a Blockchain-Based Achievement Record System" by Bakri Awaji, Ellis Solaiman, and Lindsay Marshall delivers an insightful exploration into the prospects of implementing blockchain technology for achievement records. The overarching objective is to develop a trusted environment where academic achievements and other credentials are immutable and easily verifiable, addressing the burgeoning issues of credential fraud and inefficiencies in the traditional record-keeping systems.

Context and Motivation

The conventional methods of documenting educational achievements, primarily through resumes and CVs, face significant issues regarding data continuity and authenticity. These flaws are exacerbated by the lack of standardized structures and the inherent potential for exaggeration or falsehoods in presented qualifications. In the era of increasingly competitive job markets, credential fraud has become a critical problem, necessitating novel technological solutions that can ensure the authenticity and reliability of educational records.

Methodology and Key Findings

The research employs a mixed-methods approach, involving both quantitative data from questionnaires and qualitative insights from participant interviews. The questionnaire was distributed to 1000 individuals, with a 24.7% response rate, revealing that a substantial majority (90% of respondents) see value in having a trusted achievement record. However, there is a pronounced gap in understanding blockchain technology, with over 55% of respondents unfamiliar with blockchain and its applications.

A central issue identified through participant interviews is the diversity in CV presentation and structure, which complicates the evaluation process. Furthermore, there is evident skepticism regarding the accuracy of claimed qualifications and skills, underlining the necessity for a more reliable system of records.

Implications and Future Directions

The paper's findings underscore the potential for blockchain technology, particularly its immutable and decentralized nature, to address the noted challenges. The adoption of a blockchain-based achievement record system could standardize the process of credential validation, ensuring the reliability and efficiency of storing and retrieving educational and professional achievements.

To actualize this potential, future research must focus on simplifying blockchain's complex systems to increase end-user accessibility. This includes developing a user-friendly interface that allows stakeholders—such as employers, academic institutions, and students—to interact with blockchain records seamlessly. Moreover, addressing the knowledge gap about blockchain technology through educational initiatives could catalyze broader acceptance and implementation.

Conclusion

The paper provides a thorough examination of the requirements and potential solutions for developing a blockchain-based achievement record system. It highlights blockchain's prospects in revolutionizing how educational credentials are recorded and validated, presenting a robust solution to the prevailing issue of credential fraud. As the educational and employment landscapes evolve, continued exploration and development in this domain could significantly enhance the transparency and trustworthiness of achievement records globally.