National Cheng Kung University (NCKU) has taken a significant step in ensuring the authenticity of academic records. To address challenges in verifying student credentials and learning histories, especially for diverse admissions processes, the university has turned to blockchain technology. Over the past year, NCKU has explored using decentralized systems to store and protect student learning journeys securely.
Following a collaboration with the Taiwan Academy of Banking and Finance and SinoPac Financial Holdings to launch the i-Certificate blockchain in August, the university has advanced its efforts. It now leverages IOTA's Tangle—a next-generation distributed ledger—to develop a self-sovereign identity authentication system named TangleID. This system aims to record comprehensive educational histories, going beyond traditional certificates to include detailed learning experiences.
Addressing Modern Educational Challenges
In July, NCKU approved a new interdisciplinary bachelor's degree program, accepting internal transfer students starting August and planning to welcome new external students by next August. This flexible program allows students to tailor their studies across disciplines, with degrees awarded based on credits earned. However, this flexibility introduces complexity in verifying credentials and approving graduation documents.
Professor Hwang Jing-Jang, an assistant professor in the Department of Computer Science and Information Engineering at NCKU leading the TangleID development, highlights the limitations of paper-based records. "Blockchain isn’t constrained by paper; it can store vast amounts of data," he explains. This includes not just transcripts but also submitted reports, class sizes, and other learning-related information.
Overcoming Traditional Blockchain Limitations
During their research, the NCKU team encountered several technical hurdles with existing blockchain solutions. For instance, Bitcoin's scalability issues, substantial storage requirements for mining past transactions, and transaction fees posed significant challenges.
These limitations prompted the exploration of alternative technologies.
Embracing IOTA’s Tangle Technology
After thorough evaluation, NCKU chose IOTA, often referred to as third-generation blockchain technology. Its underlying structure, Tangle, utilizes a Directed Acyclic Graph (DAG) network, which eliminates blocks and chains entirely. "It breaks the constraints of traditional blockchains!" emphasizes Professor Hwang.
In Tangle, larger transaction volumes enhance network usability. Crucially, it operates without miners, requiring zero transaction fees. Transaction validation involves verifying two previous transactions, ensuring efficiency and scalability.
Real-World Applications Beyond Academia
The concept of Proof of Existence (PoE) is vital in numerous sectors. Professor Hwang points out applications in pharmaceutical manufacturing, logistics, accident forensics, energy management, and environmental pollution monitoring. From a human resources perspective, verifying resume authenticity remains a persistent challenge, similar to validating awards and certificates in university admissions.
"With so many competitions nowadays, instructors can’t easily verify if an award exists or if rankings are falsified," he explains. Traditional methods like calling organizers are often ineffective, as some don’t maintain records. "Verifying certificate authenticity is extremely difficult."
Thus, NCKU aims to build a portable "Trust Machine" that integrates seamlessly with various environments. TangleID is considered a superior implementation of PoE for these purposes.
Expanding to Environmental Monitoring
Professor Hwang is also collaborating with the German IOTA Foundation and Taiwan’s LASS environmental sensor network. They are integrating TangleID with sensor data to monitor air pollution. "Maintaining data authenticity during storage is critical," he states. Since experts can only perform on-site inspections at specific times, evidence relies heavily on sensor data. Ensuring this data remains unaltered from collection through storage is paramount.
IOTA’s Growing Ecosystem and Data Marketplace
IOTA continues to gain traction in the tech world. Recently, it launched the IOTA Data Marketplace, attracting major industry players like Microsoft, Fujitsu, Cisco, Volkswagen AG, and Samsung. This initiative aims to create a secure, decentralized environment for data exchange, breaking down existing data silos and enabling businesses to buy and sell data confidently.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is IOTA’s Tangle?
IOTA’s Tangle is a distributed ledger technology that uses a Directed Acyclic Graph (DAG) instead of traditional blocks and chains. It offers feeless transactions, scalability, and decentralized data integrity, making it suitable for various applications beyond cryptocurrency.
How does NCKU use blockchain for education?
NCKU employs IOTA's Tangle to create an immutable record of student learning histories, including certificates, transcripts, and even classroom activities. This system enhances verification processes and reduces fraud in academic credentials.
Why is Proof of Existence important?
Proof of Existence ensures that digital documents and data remain authentic and unaltered over time. It is crucial for sectors requiring verified records, such as education, healthcare, logistics, and environmental monitoring.
Can other institutions adopt this technology?
Yes, the solution is designed for portability and integration. Universities and organizations globally can leverage similar decentralized systems to secure their data and improve trust in digital records. 👉 Explore more about decentralized verification
What are the benefits of feeless transactions?
Feeless transactions, as offered by IOTA, reduce operational costs and allow for microtransactions and data exchanges that wouldn’t be feasible with fee-based systems, supporting broader adoption and innovation.
How does Tangle ensure data security?
Tangle’ structure requires each transaction to validate two previous ones, creating a secure, decentralized network. Data becomes tamper-proof and verifiable by anyone, ensuring transparency and trust.