Blockchain technologies and their impact on game-based education and learning assessment

Abstract

Traditional education systems are characterised by inefficiencies, outdated certification methods and susceptibility to fraud, undermining confidence in academic qualifications. The lack of global standardisation also hinders the cross-border recognition of qualifications, limiting student mobility and employability. Blockchain technology offers a potentially transformative solution to these challenges, but misconceptions and technical and privacy concerns are slowing its adoption in education. This dissertation explores the potential of blockchain to transform educational processes, particularly in game-based learning (GBL) and game-based assessment (GBA), while addressing the challenges. Using a qualitative mixed methods approach - including an initial focus group, prototype testing, surveys and problem-centred expert interviews - several innovative frameworks were validated. A blockchain-based framework for GBL and GBA, which integrates smart contracts to securely track performance and automate grading, was proposed and validated through the 'Gallery Defender' game and quiz prototypes. These prototypes demonstrated improved learner engagement and transparent grading processes, with two technical approaches explored for integrating blockchain tokens and smart contracts. To address privacy concerns, this dissertation presents education-specific solutions such as encrypted non-fungible tokens (NFTs), zero-knowledge proofs (ZKPs), and anchoring off-chain data using one-way hashes to ensure GDPR compliance. In addition, a self-sovereign identity (SSI) eID wallet framework is proposed to securely store educational credentials and integrate ZKP technologies. This wallet acts as a hub and verification system, connecting different methods of credential storage and validation provided by governmental and non-governmental entities, in line with frameworks such as the European Digital Identity (EUDI) wallet. These contributions indicate the potential of blockchain to significantly improve efficiency, transparency and trust in education, while addressing critical issues of privacy and sustainability, pointing the way to a more secure education ecosystem.