The Emergence of Decentralized Web in the Education Field : A Case Study on Challenges of Learning Systems based on Decentralized Learning Model

Abstract: Decentralization of web is, also known as Web 3.0 or Semantic Web, is catching on quickly. Deployment of a decentralized network or system for learning purposes in an educational institution could involve the use of new cutting-edge technologies and tools behind blockchain systems and Social Networking Sites (SNS). These technologies can be applied in the education sector to reap numerous benefits. The benefits could be in the areas of longdistance learning, real-time availability of learning content and assignments, improved collaboration between instructors and students, better evaluation of student performance, secure and transparent payment systems for courses, and easy and structured access to student records. Yet other benefits could be achieved by the implementing educational institution in the form of automation (using artificial intelligence and machine learning tools), cost reduction, improved efficiency, system reliability, and data security and privacy. However, like everything else, the decentralization of web or other such networks comes with its own set of challenges. This research study focuses on the challenges associated with implementing a decentralized learning model for learning systems of an educational institution. The study involved both primary and secondary research. First, a thorough review was conducted of the existing literature on the implementation of decentralization technologies in the education sector. Then, a survey was conducted among 25 students to collect information on their views of what these challenges are and to validate the findings from literature revie. The study concludes that, to fully realize the benefits of deploying these technologies to DWeb learning models, several challenges need to be overcome quickly. The survey that was conducted corroborated the findings from the literature review to a large extent. Though many respondents showed their satisfaction with the decentralized e-learning practices where they have been deployed, there still seem to be large gaps in understanding, awareness, deployment, and fine-tuning of such learning systems. The survey results revealed a strong resistance to the use of new technologies among educators; a lack of accessibility to resources and technical support; and a lack of competency and confidence due, perhaps, to a lack of operational training. Overcoming these challenges would require better awareness and understanding of the current trends and developments among both students and instructors. Education system should be well-prepared to train and update both students and instructors on how to best utilize these technologies to reap their benefits. Collaboration through digital means, as opposed to iii one-on-one classroom interactions, would also require a change in the mindset of the users of these learning models.