5411322: FU_Introduction to Blockchain

Description

Distributed ledgers and especially blockchains have primarily become known for their key role in the rise of cryptocurrencies. Distributed ledger technology (DLT) is a generalized term for the cryptographic technology cryptocurrencies (e.g., Bitcoin) and blockchain networks are based on. Distributed ledgers are described as decentralized database systems spread over a multitude of network participants. Information stored and spread within the network can only be altered and added by a democratic consensus mechanism. This forms a more secure, reliable and trustworthy system compared to centralized, server-based data storage. Each blockchain protocol balances security, scalability, efficiency, and performance to meet the needs of its application purpose. Blockchain technology and linked use cases have witnessed tremendous adoption since the introduction of Bitcoin in 2008. For example, DLT and blockchains also build the base for digital representation of physical goods and of rights.

The goal of this class is twofold. The first section of the class will explain what exactly this technology is and what problem this technology solves. You do not need any prior knowledge of those technologies and terms.

The second part will investigate practical use cases, blockchains in the light of money, the Liechtenstein legislation, and further trends how this technology can impact the world in which we live.

The class will analyze different facets of blockchains, including its socio-cultural as well as socio-economic consequences.

Lecture Goals

Participants will:

• Acquire knowledge about the technological fundamentals of blockchain and related technologies and can explain the most common consensus mechanisms.
• Understand how blockchain and related technologies may impact our daily life and how the individual student can benefit from the gathered insights.
• Know what smart contracts are and have a basic knowledge of how to code a simple ERC20 Token
• Understand the principles of tokenization and can distinguish between different types of cryptocurrencies or blockchains accordingly to their field of application.
• Have basic knowledge of current changes happening in commerce and finance with respect to blockchains.
• Learn how to familiarize themselves with a topic foreign to them.
• (Non-native speakers) enlarge their vocabulary in areas of technology and finance.
• Improve their critical thinking, social interaction and scientific skills.
• Train their behavior in verbal communication, presentation and discussion.
• Practice the autonomous conduct of short written reports.

Learning Outcomes

Participants will:

• Acquire knowledge about the technological fundamentals of blockchain and related technologies and can explain the most common consensus mechanisms.
• Understand how blockchain and related technologies may impact our daily life and how the individual student can benefit from the gathered insights.
• Know what smart contracts are and have a basic knowledge of how to code a simple ERC20 Token
• Understand the principles of tokenization and can distinguish between different types of cryptocurrencies or blockchains accordingly to their field of application.
• Have basic knowledge of current changes happening in commerce and finance with respect to blockchains.
• Learn how to familiarize themselves with a topic foreign to them.
• (Non-native speakers) enlarge their vocabulary in areas of technology and finance.
• Improve their critical thinking, social interaction and scientific skills.
• Train their behavior in verbal communication, presentation and discussion.
• Practice the autonomous conduct of short written reports.

Lectures Method

Interactive lectures with group work, group presentation and assignments.

Admission Requirements

None.

Literature

Current articles and information videos
Will be distributed at the beginning of the course.

Materials

Presentation slides, interactive documents

Comments

cross-faculty course:
Rules for registration: www.uni.li/cross-faculty