IDC4U Interdisciplinary Studies: Blockchain Technology – Grade 12 (University)
PREREQUISITE: Any University or University/College preparation course
GRADE: 12 (University)
AVAILABILITY: Blyth Academy Online
THE ONTARIO CURRICULUM: Interdisciplinary Studies
CREDIT CROSSOVER: Although Interdisciplinary Studies courses focus on different subject matter, the IDC4U course code can only count as one credit on a student’s transcript, even if multiple courses are taken. For example, a student that has completed IDC4U – Artificial Intelligence and IDC4U – The Elite Athlete will only earn one credit in total on their final transcript. Each course (along with the final grade) will show, however, a credit value of zero will be applied to the second IDC4U course. This also applies to students using IDC4U as one of their top six marks when applying to university; one only course may be used as an achieved credit out of the six.
UNIT ONE
Bitcoins and Altcoins- In this unit, students will learn about how blockchain technology creates coins to attribute value to the blockchain network. Students will be given the tools to analyze and monitor a growing number of coins.
UNIT TWO
Blockchain Explorers and Use Cases- In this unit, students will learn how digital currencies operate on the blockchain, and what a blockchain is in more detail by searching transaction data, blockchain addresses, and understanding how cryptocurrencies operate on a blockchain. Students will also learn how to use the blockchain in real life by sending and receiving Synchrolife restaurant food tokens. These transactions will be logged to the Ethereum blockchain, and students will be required to report on their transactions as part of a blockchain learning process. Being involved and integrated into the blockchain is just as important as studying what it does.
UNIT THREE
Powering the Blockchain- In this unit, students will learn how blockchains are powered, and what this means for power consumption around the globe. Can the blockchain be environmentally friendly? Students will also explore the concept of mining Bitcoin and Altcoins, speculative pricing, mining calculators, electricity costs, the concept of efficiency, and how a growing blockchain can be both good and bad for business.
UNIT FOUR
Blockchain Evolution- In this unit, students will research the concepts of space and place and how coin usage can vary by geography. Even though cryptocurrency is for the most part border-less (anyone anywhere can use it), usage of certain coins is favoured in certain areas (due to social influences within geo-regions). Here students will look at real-world projects that use blockchains, and try to make sense of them in a Canadian context.
UNIT FIVE
Using the Blockchain for Business- In this unit, students will discover why the blockchain is an active model for developing business.
CULMINATING PROJECT
- This project is the final evaluation of IDC4U Blockchain Technology. This project will challenge students to use all concepts learned throughout this course and is worth 30% of the final grade.