BLOCKCHAIN IN THE CLASSROOM
S cepticism around together to champion the transformative potential of these emerging technologies – not only to revolutionise the financial services industry, but also to redefine the future of finance research and business education itself. The Centre for Digital Finance has been instrumental in establishing a strong foundation for research-led teaching in fintech, fostering a vibrant academic environment that connects cutting-edge research with practical education. In recognition of the growing significance of blockchain technology in reshaping industries, it was a natural progression to introduce a new MBA-level module in 2020 tailored to equip executives with the knowledge and skills required to navigate a rapidly transforming business landscape. This transformation is being driven by blockchain innovations that are revolutionising core service delivery processes across various sectors. As the module leader for Blockchain Technology and Cryptocurrency Investment, Larisa Yarovaya developed a curriculum rooted in the latest research conducted by scholars at the University of Southampton, while also drawing on groundbreaking studies from leading academic institutions and industry experts worldwide. The module focuses primarily on the principles and investment strategies surrounding cryptocurrencies, providing students with a deep understanding of this dynamic and often volatile market. cryptocurrency has largely stemmed from concerns about cybersecurity, environmental sustainability and the speculative nature of such markets. At the Centre for Digital Finance, part of Southampton Business School, pioneering scholars have come However, the module’s scope extends far beyond cryptocurrency. The curriculum delves into diverse blockchain applications, including enhancing supply chain transparency and enabling seamless integration in open banking ecosystems, as well as unlocking new opportunities in emerging domains such as the metaverse.
This holistic approach ensures that students gain a comprehensive perspective on the transformative potential of blockchain technology, preparing them to lead innovation and drive strategic decisions in their respective industries. By blending academic rigour with real-world applicability, the module reflects Southampton Business School’s commitment to fostering leaders who are well-equipped to thrive in a digitally driven economy. Striving for the right balance One of the key challenges was achieving the right balance between the technological and computational aspects of blockchain technology and exploring its implications for various industries. Striking this balance was essential to ensure that executives not only developed a solid foundational understanding of the technology, but also found the module engaging and relevant to their real-world experiences and business needs. Given the diverse backgrounds of the MBA cohort, this equilibrium was crucial for maximising the module’s impact. The first year of delivery was particularly critical, as the feedback from executives provided invaluable insights and specific guidance for refining the curriculum and enhancing its alignment with their professional requirements. This iterative approach allowed for continuous improvement, ensuring that the module remained both academically rigorous and practically relevant. Since then, the module has gone from strength to strength. Indeed, Peter Rodgers, who interviews all candidates before they join the Southampton MBA, notes how candidates are increasingly giving the blockchain module as one of the key reasons that Southampton is a top choice for their MBA adventure in the UK. Changing society for the better The next major and ongoing challenge is keeping pace with the rapid innovation in fintech. We both firmly believe that teaching in such a dynamic and fast‑evolving field requires academics to stay fully engaged with contemporary debates. Active collaboration with
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