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.
In this course, students will learn about blockchain history, business models, use cases, and innovation for the next course of future global developments. Blockchain technology will help students combine the skills required for and knowledge of different subjects and disciplines to solve problems, make decisions, create personal meaning, and present findings beyond the scope of a single subject or discipline. Through individual and collaborative inquiry and research, students will analyze the connections among diverse subjects and disciplines; develop information literacy skills in analyzing, selecting, evaluating, and communicating information; and become aware of a variety of blockchain resources and viewpoints on technological issues. Students will also examine their own learning styles and lifestyles, relate their inquiries and research to global situations, and investigate career opportunities in blockchain technology.
UNIT ONE
Bitcoins and Altcoins Essential Question: How does blockchain technology change our world?
- 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 Essential Question: How can I use the block explorer to better understand how a blockchain works?
- 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 Essential Question: How is global power consumption affected by machines used to power 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 Essential Question: How is cryptocurrency affecting society?
- 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 Essential Question: How does the blockchain revolutionize the way businesses are created and managed?
- In this unit, students will discover why the blockchain is an active model for developing business.
CULMINATING PROJECT
30% of Final Grade
- 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.
