Revolutionizing MOOCs: Blockchain for Secure and Transparent Credentialing
摘要
Blockchain technology has emerged as a transformative solution for addressing critical challenges in online education, specifically in the perspective of Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs). This paper investigates the possibility of blockchain revolutionizing credentialing systems by ensuring security, reliability, and transparency. A comprehensive review of existing literature highlights its applications in secure credential issuance, tamper-proof record management, and fostering trust among learners, institutions, and employers. The paper proposes a technical framework detailing blockchain’s integration into MOOCs, emphasizing key components such as decentralized ledgers, smart contracts, and public–private key encryption. Despite its promise, challenges such as scalability, cost implications, interoperability, and regulatory compliance persist. Future research directions are outlined, focusing on the integration of AI with blockchain, the development of global standards for digital credentials, and the advancement of quantum-resistant cryptographic measures. This paper concludes that, despite its limitations, blockchain holds immense potential to transform online education, offering a pathway to a more secure, inclusive, and efficient digital learning ecosystem.