Ed3 Weekly Issue #139: A Matter of Perception
Crypto adoption is up, but the need to increase education remains
Hello Ed3 frens,
Each week I share new resources and announcements that point to a broadening of interest in blockchain and web3 technology. Yet reports like the one in this issue point to only 51% of those who are invested in crypto understand them.
We’re in an interesting state right now. Crypto interest has never been higher. Bitcoin price keeps hitting all-time highs, blue chip NFTs are trading at values not seen since the last bull run, and flows into crypto show no signs of stopping.
But why does crypto education remain so low?
Our weekly deep dive provides some insights:
Complexity of the Technology
Misconceptions and Misinformation
Barriers to Entry
Limited Real-World Use Cases
I also think it points to one significant component of the development of crypto that makes it a very unique technology. All of the developments around its implementation have been happening out in the open for everyone to see.
Unlike other major industries related to the computer and the internet, crypto has seen a level of transparency that we haven’t seen before.
In the last wave of technology innovation, developments happened in private at Y-combinators and hacker camps. Bugs were worked out before the products were delivered to the public.
So as we consider collaborative efforts to deploy blockchain education or an early Bitcoin adopter pushing their education platform, remember that we are getting a look “behind the curtain.”
Enjoy the resources for this week. Don’t forget to like comment, and share on your networks. Your support is appreciated.
🤖 AI News
AI tools and student data: Teachers can endanger kids’ privacy without robust training
🔗 As AI companies have proliferated, many have offered services like AI-powered tutors for students, and AI chatbots and platforms that serve as teaching assistants. But many of them do not sufficiently protect students’ personal data. Read
⛓️ Blockchain News
KC Futures DAO spearheads globe-spanning blockchain education collaboration
🔗 A trend-setting new partnership between Kansas City blockchain visionaries, local digital innovation advocates and global thought leaders at the University of Nicosia of Cyprus could bank tech-forward thinkers a new degree of expertise: think a master’s in crypto. Read
🪙 Crypto News
Bitcoin Pioneer Didi Taihuttu Leads the Didi Bam Bam Revolution
🔗 With the launch of Didi Bam Bam, his latest initiative, Taihuttu aims to tackle one of the most significant challenges facing the cryptocurrency industry: accessibility. Read
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🤿 Weekly Deep Dive
Consensys releases Global Survey on Crypto and Web3
This report reveals growing crypto and web3 adoption, particularly in emerging markets but also speaks to several gaps in understanding, trust, and education. Some of the top concerns remain data privacy, AI risks, and dissatisfaction with traditional financial systems. I hope this presents additional opportunities for blockchain and decentralization to empower individuals.
But the learning curve is still high. Crypto’s complexity and lack of accessible education remain significant barriers to understanding and adoption. I am curious if this current bull run and a general broadening of interest in blockchain will help address some of these gaps in understanding rather than widen them. 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.