¾«¶«´«Ã½app

UniSQ Logo
The current and official versions of the course specifications are available on the web at .
Please consult the web for updates that may occur during the year.

CIS8504 Blockchain Fundamentals

Semester 1, 2022 Online
Units : 1
Faculty or Section : Faculty of Business, Education, Law and Arts
School or Department : School of Business
Grading basis : Graded
Course fee schedule : /current-students/administration/fees/fee-schedules

Staffing

Examiner:

Requisites

Enrolment is not permitted in CIS8504 if CIS8702 has been previously completed.

Overview

Blockchain is the underlying technology of cryptocurrencies and holds the promise of ushering in new models for economies and marketplaces, governance, identity and more. Blockchain and Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) essentially connect together to form a new type of market infrastructure that sits on top of – and integrates into – existing systems and processes. Blockchains have the potential to disrupt a number of other areas in addition to the financial industry. Supermarkets, energy resources, healthcare, voting and many other sectors could also incorporate blockchain in their future, and new jobs that exploit these skills and opportunities are likely to become more pervasive. As Blockchain technology can be used to prevent data breaches, identity thefts, cyber-attacks and foul play in transactions, the field of cybersecurity is another industry which will be significantly impacted by this technology with the scope for more in the future.

This course is designed to provide students with the knowledge and insights into the key aspects of blockchain technology and use cases that will serve to provide a solid platform and foundation for developing effective and innovative strategies for their organizations. Integrating both technical and broad perspectives, Blockchain Fundamentals builds a comprehensive survey of the blockchain space that empowers students, entrepreneurs, and developers of all backgrounds.

The course aggregates modules that (1) focus on an understanding of the core technological and security aspects, (2) evaluate a range of use cases in the blockchain ecosystem, (3) explore decentralized apps and smart contracts, and (4) consolidate these into developing an innovative use case to solve a real world problem.

Course learning outcomes

On successful completion of this course students should be able to:

  1. explain the technical and security underpinnings of blockchains;
  2. evaluate the architectural challenges of blockchains;
  3. identify and critically evaluate existing use cases;
  4. explore the blockchain eco-system;
  5. explain the mechanics of decentralize apps and smart contracts;
  6. critically evaluate security and regulatory frameworks;
  7. design and document a blockchain solution to an existing practical problem.

Topics

Description Weighting(%)
1. Blockchain Technology 10.00
2. Blockchain Use Cases 10.00
3. Decentralized apps and Smart Contracts 20.00
4. Current and future trends in Blockchain 20.00
5. Impact on security and regulations 20.00
6. Blockchain eco-system 10.00
7. Strategic development and implementation of Blockchain solutions 10.00

Text and materials required to be purchased or accessed

There are no texts or materials required for this course.

Student workload expectations

To do well in this subject, students are expected to commit approximately 10 hours per week including class contact hours, independent study, and all assessment tasks. If you are undertaking additional activities, which may include placements and residential schools, the weekly workload hours may vary.

Assessment details

Description Weighting (%) Course learning outcomes
Online Quiz 15 1,2
Essay 35 1,2,4
Report 50 3,5,6,7
Date printed 10 February 2023