Blockchain and Cryptocurrencies

The content of the course is to acquaint students with the problems of Blockchain technology. Blockchain is introduced and discussed from several perspectives. Firstly, the underlying (information) technology aspect is review and explained. Then, implications of security, managerial and economic issues are discussed. Subsequently, the application of Blockchain in the form of cryptocurrencies and other decentralized solutions is presented. Those demonstrations are both from commercial and public administration.

Course objectives

After completing this course, students should be able to adopt a strategic approach to the marketing of tourism destinations by

• apply knowledge to estimate and determine worthy cryptocurrency from worthless “garbage” cryptocurrency,
• demonstrate the use of blockchain in practice and conduct critical discussion and evaluation,
• prepare a conceptual model for the use of blockchain.
• analyze the environment and requirements when the blockchain technology is beneficial and when needless or unsuitable,
• distinguish blockchain technology from its applications

Course topics

• Introduction to the blockchain. Its technological and social aspects. Distinguishing between the blockchain and its applications.
• Historical background of the blockchain. Technological foundations of the blockchain I.
• Technological foundations of the blockchain II. When does it make sense to use a blockchain?
• Defining digital currency and cryptocurrency. Cryptocurrencies and the blockchain. Digital wallet for cryptocurrencies.
• Types of cryptocurrencies and their properties. Examples of cryptocurrencies and practical use.
• Interdisciplinary implications of the use of cryptocurrencies. Financial markets. Ethical and environmental aspects.
• Further blockchain application. Banking, financial services, and smart contracts. Use in public administration.
• Presentation of prepared case studies.

Evaluation