ODEM, Education and Blockchain: Fasten Your Seatbelt

Every so often when checking in for a flight I’ll jokingly ask the airline agent to “put me beside someone interesting.” My request usually generates a smile.

Although air travel can be grueling, I love the cosmic randomness of meeting fascinating people on passenger jets.

After the usual onboard introductions, I listen for any opportunity to tell my seatmates about ODEM. Chances are they’ve never heard that we’re using blockchain technology (what’s that?) to make high-quality education more accessible and affordable.

I’ll explain that blockchain is the data encryption software that underpins digital currencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum. And that blockchain is so much more than just the backbone for cryptocurrency.

I say that the technology is transforming accepted ways of transmitting value in banking, finance, trade, the legal profession, real estate, healthcare and even education.

Then, I’ll gently touch on how ODEM is using blockchain to:

• Create the ODEM Platform, a global education marketplace for customized learning by connecting students with educators
• Challenge the expensive four-year degree model by encouraging lifelong learning in bite-sized, affordable academic programs.
• Offer live-and-online blended learning that addresses the needs of individual students.
• Generate verified, blockchain-based credentials that students can control and share instantly with employers and recruiters.

I’ll end off by sharing how ODEM is already assisting the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology in Canada to issue blockchain-based diplomas to their graduating students.

By then it’s time for a movie or a nap. Even the world’s most interesting people need to rest.

Stay tuned for more updates about ODEM.

Rich Maaghul,
CEO
ODEM