B-Skills
B-SKILLS: European Erasmus Plus Project aiming at upskilling adults learners with Blockchain basic skills. Despite the need for blockchain basic literacy, actually there are no or very few educational paths addressed to adult learners. Blockchain is a complex concept to understand. Until recently, there were no formal education courses on Blockchain. Most courses focusing on this technology are for IT specialists and software developers. There is still a large gap in consumable and easily accessible resources to learn about this disruptive technology. In addition, there is also some confusion and lack of clarity of how this technology could be beneficial to the wider public.
Thus, the project B-Skills aims at supporting educators and adult learners with training and supporting materials for the achievement of basic digital skills related to Blockchain technology. The adult learners will achieve these fundamental skills through flexible and motivating training paths, materials, and tools to prepare them for taking advantage of the technology in their daily life and work. The partnership includes seven complementary partners coming from six different countries: Learnable (Italy), company expert in disruptive educational methodologies, the Technology Park of Andalucía, and The University of Malaga (Spain), the European Center of Entrepreneurship Competence & Excellence – ECECE (Austria), the creative studio Flow Productions (Portugal), and the non-profit organizations Edu Playground (Bulgaria) and Social Hackers (Greece).
The project, co-funded by the Erasmus + program of the European Union, has officially started in February 2022 and will last for 26 months.
Title: Unlocking Austria's Future: The Vital Role of Blockchain
Author: ECECE (www.ecece.org), Partner of the Erasmus+ B-Skills Project
Blockchain technology is rapidly emerging as a transformative force in numerous industries worldwide, and Austria is no exception. As a partner of the Erasmus+ B-Skills project, we at ECECE (European Center for Excellence in Blockchain, www.ecece.org) recognize the growing importance of blockchain technology in Austria. In this article, we delve into the significance of blockchain in the Austrian context, focusing on its potential to reshape various sectors, and the role of the Erasmus+ B-Skills project in fostering blockchain knowledge among adult learners.Austria, a nation long known for its innovation and technological prowess, is actively embracing blockchain technology. Various sectors are experiencing the impact of blockchain, with government, industry, and education being at the forefront of this digital transformation. Regulations in Austria reflect a proactive approach to blockchain technology. The Austrian Financial Market Authority (FMA) has introduced guidelines for cryptocurrencies and initial coin offerings (ICOs), ensuring investor protection and transparency. These regulations have created a conducive environment for blockchain businesses to thrive.The FMA's guidelines are a testament to Austria's commitment to responsible blockchain adoption, providing legal clarity and security for both investors and businesses. One of the best practices in Austria's blockchain landscape is the collaboration between government, academia, and industry. The Austrian Blockchain Center, a joint initiative involving academic institutions and businesses, fosters research and development in blockchain technology. This multidisciplinary approach ensures that blockchain innovations are both cutting-edge and practical. This collaborative model serves as an example for other countries looking to develop their blockchain ecosystems. Several notable companies in Austria have emerged as leaders in the blockchain space. RIDDLE&CODE, a Vienna-based blockchain solutions provider, specializes in secure hardware wallets and authentication solutions. Additionally, Bitpanda, a Vienna-based cryptocurrency exchange, has gained recognition for its user-friendly platform and compliance with financial regulations. These companies exemplify Austria's entrepreneurial spirit and innovation in blockchain technology. Recognizing the importance of blockchain skills in the modern workforce, educational institutions in Austria have started offering blockchain courses. The Erasmus+ B-Skills project, partnered with ECECE, is a prime example, aiming to equip adult learners with essential blockchain knowledge. As the business landscape evolves, blockchain skills are becoming increasingly valuable, making educational initiatives like the Erasmus+ B-Skills project crucial for workforce development.