Foundations of Blockchain Systems

This unit introduces foundational blockchain concepts, histories, and major platforms while surveying practical financial and industry applications. Students examine architectures, consensus models, security practices, and regulatory/ethical considerations to prepare for deeper technical and applied modules.

Learning Objectives

• Analyze and compare core blockchain structures, consensus mechanisms, and trade-offs across major networks (Bitcoin, Ethereum, Cardano, Polkadot, Solana, Hyperledger, Bletchley) to explain how design choices affect scalability, security, and use case suitability
• Apply best-practice procedures for securing and transacting cryptocurrency, including wallet management, exchange usage, and basic operational security measures
• Evaluate real-world industry applications and case studies (banking trends, title/insurance innovation, government use, Decentraland/metaverse) taking into account regulatory, ethical, and compliance implications
• Demonstrate the ability to select and justify an appropriate blockchain solution by assessing technical requirements, governance models, regulatory constraints, and business objectives