Ed3 Weekly Issue #137: A Tale of Two Cities
Concerns in crypto implementation demand growth, learning, and progress
Hello Ed3 frens,
It is the best of times, it is the worst of times, you’ve heard this story.
This applies to the world of blockchain too.
Blockchain has promised transparency, decentralization, and innovation. However, concerns are hiding in the shadows. These include scams that erode trust, and the gap in accessible education leaving many ill-equipped to harness its power.
This newsletter is a resource to learn how blockchain is unlocking new pathways for learning, equitable systems, and global collaboration. It is also a valuable reminder that its complexity and misuse demand that we continue to work to make it inclusive and safe.
The issue this week takes a look into these two realities, exploring how we can leverage blockchain's potential while addressing the barriers that hold it back.
Here are some of the contrasts: challenges of accountability, as seen in the alleged fraud within an AI education startup, to the inspiring leadership of Wollongong University in advancing blockchain education.
Or, reports on low crypto literacy remind us of the urgency for authentic education, while the resurgence of crypto jobs indicates hope for those equipped with the right skills.
🤖 AI News
Why the Founder of an AI Education Startup Is Now Accused of Fraud
🔗 AllHere founder and CEO Joanna Smith-Griffin ran what appeared to be a fast-growing AI education startup. The FBI claims she was faking financials and lying to investors. Read
⛓️ Blockchain News
Wollongong University Leads the Way in Blockchain Education
🔗 As blockchain technology continues to revolutionize industries worldwide, universities in Wollongong, Australia, are stepping up their efforts to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in this rapidly evolving field. Read
🪙 Crypto News
Crypto literacy at ‘dangerously low’ levels, new report warns
🔗 The crypto community’s financial literacy rate is estimated at 25%, lagging the financial literacy average in the United States by half, according to a new report. Read
If you haven’t subscribed yet, click here, or use the button below to join hundreds of others learning about the intersection of web3 and education.
🤿 Weekly Deep Dive
Crypto Jobs Are Booming Again: What Skills Are In-Demand for 2025?
Lately, we’ve seen the crypto markets recover from their bear market and start to thrive. This article shares how this has led to the industry experiencing a significant surge in job opportunities. Some of these include blockchain development and smart contract creation to Web3 management and crypto security.
We as educators need to understand that the demand for specialized skills is rising rapidly. This has demonstrated the growing need for education to close the gap in crypto literacy and prepare young people for their future. So take this as an opportunity to understand these in-demand skills— from technical expertise in Solidity and Rust to soft skills like communication and storytelling. Read
Thank you for stopping by for another issue of my newsletter on emerging technology in education. Link to all my work by checking out my website or give me a follow on the X platform.