I have been constructing a number of curriculum resources and experiences for teachers around Blockchain. In my research, I have found a number of resources. My goal over the next couple of posts is to catalog some of my findings here.
The Atrium Blockchain
The United Nations System has taken a strong interest in the applications of Distributed Ledger Technologies (DLT) in order to support their many social development programs. There are a number of exciting cases, one of which is the launch of The Atrium Blockchain in 2020. According to recent program launch webinars, presented by the core team for the project, The Atrium has 3 main elements.
- Providing curated resources for institutional sharing
- Connecting blockchain resources and elements across the UN network
- Provide a social forum for Blockchain interests across the UN to lead conversations
Team Discussion
The core team members Ariana Fowler, Christina Lomazzo and Gustav Strömfelt are very active in promoting this network.
Here is one such webinar describing the project.
What is Blockchain
Blockchain or Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) is a digital database that is decentralized in that it is stored across the network using high levels of encryption. DLT platforms are secure, private, and encrypted. They allow for individual users to keep all of their content and information and selectively shared to an audience that they define. Blockchain technologies allow users to be rewarded for their work in the form of tokens or cryptocurrency. Other rewarded work includes maintaining copies of the database and curating content through posting, upvoting as well as commenting.
Blockchain Applications
In addition to The Atrium Blockchain, the UN is also using Blockchain in other areas. These include payment systems for women workers in refugee camps. They are also applying Blockchain to alleviate hunger through the World Food Program.
Learn More
Learn more about the UN Atrium Blockchain by visiting these important resources:
- Meet The Atrium
- The UN Innovation Network - Blockchain Resources
- UN Practical Guide to Using Blockchain within the UN