[PeerLearn] Peer-to-peer online learning application

[GENERAL] Name and surname of main applicant

PearLearn Team

[GENERAL] Are you delivering this project as an individual or as an entity (whether formally incorporated or not)

Individual

[GENERAL] Co-proposers and additional applicants

Thanh Nguyen

An Nguyen

Phuong Vo

Cong Chi

[GENERAL] Please specify how many months you expect your project to last (from 2-12 months)

8

[GENERAL] Please indicate if your proposal has been auto-translated into English from another language

Yes

[GENERAL] Summarize your solution to the problem (200-character limit including spaces)

Develop an online learning platform that enables learners and teachers worldwide to connect directly, ensuring secure payments and transparency in evaluating teachers, learners, and learning outcomes.

[GENERAL] Does your project have any dependencies on other organizations, technical or otherwise?

Yes

[GENERAL] If YES, please describe what the dependency is and why you believe it is essential for your project’s delivery. If NO, please write “No dependencies.”

We are partnering with Aladin Contract LLC, a company specializing in developing dApps on the Cardano ecosystem. Together, we have developed a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) for the PeerLearn application, which showcases its core functionalities and features.

Currently, we are in the process of finalizing the last steps required for its launch on both the Google Play Store and the App Store. Aladin will also be responsible for the ongoing support and maintenance of the application post-launch, ensuring that users have a seamless experience.

[GENERAL] Will your project’s output/s be fully open source?

Yes

[GENERAL] Please provide here more information on the open source status of your project outputs

Our project is open source, with all blockchain-related code available for public audit. This ensures transparency and trust within the community. However, certain off-chain algorithms will remain private to maintain competitive advantage. We plan to use the MIT License for the open-source components, providing flexibility for developers to freely use and modify the code. If any changes occur during the project lifecycle, we will update the open-source repository accordingly.

[METADATA] Horizons

RWA

[SOLUTION] Please describe your proposed solution

Challenges Faced by Online Learners

Online learners today encounter various challenges that hinder their educational experience. Many platforms lack transparency in payment systems, leading to concerns about fair pricing and the security of financial transactions. Additionally, the quality of teaching can be inconsistent, as learners often have limited means to evaluate instructors before enrolling in courses. There is also a reliance on third-party intermediaries, which can create barriers to direct connections between students and teachers.

PeerLearn: A Unique Solution

PeerLearn is a decentralized online learning platform that empowers teachers and learners worldwide to connect directly and create their own classes without the need for intermediaries. The platform integrates smart contracts to ensure commitments between instructors and students, as well as facilitate secure tuition payments. Moreover, PeerLearn ensures that profits generated from the platform are distributed to token holders globally.

Target Users:

• Learners: Anyone seeking to learn and enhance their skills in any field can connect with instructors from around the globe. Learners can easily find courses that match their interests and financial capabilities, with the assurance of their rights protected by smart contracts.
• Teachers: Anyone with teaching skills or knowledge to share can become an instructor on PeerLearn. The application allows teachers to create classes freely, set their own tuition fees, and choose flexible payment methods, reaching students from all over the world.

PLN Token:

PLN is the project's token used for payment of services on the PeerLearn platform. Token holders will receive dividends from educational and teaching activities conducted on the platform and will have the right to participate in the decentralized governance system of the project, where they can vote on important decisions related to the app's operations and development.

Key Features:

1. Free Class Creation: Instructors can create online classes for free and customize course content as desired, including options for duration, student levels, and formats (individual or group).
2. Customizable Tuition and Payment Methods: Teachers can set tuition fees according to the value of their courses and choose flexible payment methods, including PLN tokens and other digital currencies, thus broadening their reach to students worldwide.
3. Smart Contract Management: All agreements between teachers and students are executed through smart contracts, ensuring transparency, automatic tuition payments, rewards distribution, and dispute resolution as needed.
4. Public Rating and Review System: PeerLearn features a transparent evaluation system that allows students to select instructors based on their reputation and teaching quality. Instructors can also rate students, fostering a fair and transparent ecosystem.
5. Use of PLN Tokens: PLN tokens are utilized as a payment method for services and fees on the platform. Additionally, this token secures educational commitments, protecting both parties from risks associated with breaches of agreement.
6. Commitment Guarantees: Instructors and students can stake PLN or digital currency as a commitment deposit. If commitments are fulfilled, the deposit is refunded; if there is a breach, the deposit is retained for resolution.
7. Automated Scheduling and Reminders: PeerLearn automatically manages class schedules and sends notifications to instructors and students to ensure no sessions are missed.
8. Decentralized Dispute Resolution: The system automatically designates a dispute resolver, minimizing processing time and enhancing efficiency in resolving arising issues.

User Benefits:

• Freedom and Flexibility: Users can create and join classes without adhering to rigid rules, providing diverse learning and teaching options tailored to individual needs.
• Transparency and Security: Transactions managed by smart contracts ensure that all commitments are executed transparently and safely.
• Flexible Payments: Users can pay using PLN tokens or other digital currencies, expanding global payment options.
• Risk Mitigation: Smart contracts and commitment deposits safeguard the interests of both teachers and learners, minimizing risks associated with breaches of commitment.
• Global Reach: PeerLearn connects instructors and learners from anywhere in the world, breaking down geographical barriers and offering diverse educational opportunities.

PeerLearn is not just an online learning platform; it represents a holistic development environment for the global learning community. With its unique features and integrated blockchain technology, PeerLearn promises to deliver a transparent, efficient, and secure learning and teaching experience.

To more understanding, fee free to visit: https://docs.peerlearn.net/how-it-works

[IMPACT] Please define the positive impact your project will have on the wider Cardano community

Positive Impact:

PeerLearn will increase Cardano adoption by introducing educators and learners to blockchain through user-friendly interfaces. By using smart contracts for secure, automated payments, it showcases real-world use cases beyond DeFi, enhancing Cardano’s reputation in decentralized education.

Measuring Impact:

• Quantitative: User growth, transaction volume, global reach, and token utilization.
• Qualitative: User satisfaction, case studies of successful learning experiences, and community engagement.

Sharing Outputs:

We will share regular updates through Cardano forums and Catalyst, create case studies on smart contract applications, and collaborate with influencers in education and blockchain. All relevant tools and developments will be open-source to support the Cardano ecosystem.

[CAPABILITY & FEASIBILITY] What is your capability to deliver your project with high levels of trust and accountability? How do you intend to validate if your approach is feasible?

Our team brings a wealth of experience and technical expertise to ensure the successful delivery of the PeerLearn project.

Minh Chau Nguyen is an experienced educator and project manager, having developed multiple online courses and actively participated in the Catalyst ecosystem since Fund 7. She will oversee the project, ensuring it stays on track and meets all Catalyst requirements. Her leadership and understanding of educational platforms make her well-suited to guide PeerLearn to success.

An Nguyen, with extensive experience in managing the development of applications such as the Know car rental app, will lead the technical development of PeerLearn. His proven track record of overseeing large-scale projects guarantees that PeerLearn will be developed with attention to detail, security, and scalability. An’s leadership in project management ensures that technical milestones are completed on time and within budget.

Cong Chi is a full-stack developer responsible for PeerLearn’s front-end and back-end development. His deep knowledge in creating secure and scalable applications ensures the successful integration of key features like video calling, Cardano wallet connections, and user-friendly interfaces. Cong’s ability to deliver fully functional applications from scratch demonstrates his technical proficiency and commitment to quality.

Phuong Vo, a talented UI/UX designer, will design intuitive and accessible interfaces for PeerLearn’s web and mobile platforms. Her designs focus on enhancing user experience, making the platform approachable for a global audience.

We validate our approach by utilizing industry-standard testing processes, such as code reviews, user acceptance testing (UAT), and security audits. Our development process follows agile methodologies, allowing for continuous feedback and improvements. We plan to launch beta testing phases to gather user input and refine features before full deployment.

In terms of fund management, we have implemented a transparent reporting system. Project milestones will be clearly defined, with funds released in stages upon completion and approval of each milestone. Regular updates and financial reports will be shared with the community to ensure accountability and transparency. Additionally, our experience with previous funded projects demonstrates our ability to manage resources efficiently and meet deadlines.

[PROJECT MILESTONES] What are the key milestones you need to achieve in order to complete your project successfully?

Backend System Development & Basic Frontend Setup

A. Milestone outputs:

• Development of the complete backend system to handle user management, course creation, and data storage.
• Basic frontend development allowing users to register, log in, and access their accounts.

B. Acceptance criteria:

• Functional backend API with secure data handling.
• Users can register, log in, and view course-related information on the frontend.

C. Evidence of milestone completion:

• API documentation and a demo showcasing successful user registration and course creation through the backend.
• Screenshots or video walkthrough of the frontend user registration and login process.

Estimated hours: 300 hours

Full Frontend Development & Course Creation System

A. Milestone outputs:

• Complete frontend allowing educators to create courses, and learners to browse and enroll in courses.
• Fully integrated course management system linked with the backend.

B. Acceptance criteria:

• Educators can create, edit, and publish courses with all related features (e.g., adding modules).
• Learners can search, view, and enroll in courses.

C. Evidence of milestone completion:

• Screenshots or videos demonstrating the course creation and enrollment process.
• Test results and feedback from initial pilot users verifying usability.

Estimated hours: 250 hours

Cardano Wallet Integration & Fiat Payment System

A. Milestone outputs:

• Integration of one or more Cardano wallets (Yoroi, Lace, Nami, Eternl) for future crypto functionality.
• Fiat payment system (e.g., Stripe, PayPal) integration, enabling users to purchase courses using fiat currency.

B. Acceptance criteria:

• Users can successfully connect their Cardano wallets through the interface.
• Users can make course payments using fiat options, with successful transaction confirmations.

C. Evidence of milestone completion:

• Wallet integration demo, showing successful wallet connection.
• Transaction logs and financial reports demonstrating fiat payments from test users.

Estimated hours: 250 hours

Video Call System for Online Classes

A. Milestone outputs:

• Development of a custom-built video conferencing system designed specifically for learning purposes, with features such as screen sharing, recording, and breakout rooms.

B. Acceptance criteria:

• Educators and learners can schedule and join video calls for their classes.
• Core video conferencing functionalities work as intended, supporting a smooth learning experience.

C. Evidence of milestone completion:

• Demonstration of a live video class, showing the key features in action.
• Feedback from pilot users on the quality of the video call system.

Estimated hours: 250 hours

AI-Powered Learning Support & User Data Analytics

A. Milestone outputs:

• AI-driven personalized learning support, including course recommendations based on user profiles and learning preferences.
• Analytics system to track and analyze user behavior, engagement, and performance.

B. Acceptance criteria:

• AI system provides personalized recommendations for learners and supports teachers with real-time insights.
• Admin dashboard presents key metrics and user engagement data.

C. Evidence of milestone completion:

• Demo showcasing AI-based recommendations and learning suggestions.
• Sample reports from the analytics dashboard, highlighting user engagement and performance metrics.

Estimated hours: 300 hours

Optimization, Security, and Automated Learner-Teacher Matching + Project Close-out Report & Video

A. Milestone outputs:

• Optimization of the platform’s performance, with enhanced security features such as encryption and secure communications.
• Automated matching system to pair learners with suitable teachers based on profiles and preferences.
• Project close-out report summarizing all milestones, achievements, and outcomes.
• A final video showcasing the completed platform and demonstrating its key functionalities.

B. Acceptance criteria:

• Security audit results confirm the implementation of advanced security protocols.
• Learners are successfully matched with teachers through the automated system.
• Project close-out report and final video are submitted.

C. Evidence of milestone completion:

• Security audit documentation and performance test results.
• Demonstration video showing the matching system in action.
• Submission of project close-out report and final video to the community.

Estimated hours: 320 hours

[RESOURCES] Who is in the project team and what are their roles?

1) Minh Chau Nguyen (Leader)

• Minh Chau is an experienced Chinese-Vietnamese interpreter and a Chinese language teacher. She owns a Chinese language center in Long An and has created multiple online Chinese courses on various educational platforms. With extensive experience in online teaching and learning, she is well-positioned to lead the PeerLearn project. As the project manager, her primary responsibility is to oversee the entire project and work closely with team leads to ensure that all tasks are completed on schedule.
• Minh Chau will also be responsible for reporting the completion of project milestones and ensuring that the project remains aligned with Catalyst’s timelines and goals. As an active participant in the Catalyst ecosystem since Fund 7, she brings valuable insights and experience to the project.
• Facebook: Minh Chau Nguyen

2) Thanh Nguyen (R&D)

• Thanh Nguyen brings extensive experience in researching and deploying applications. He is the head of R&D at Aladin Contract and will oversee testing the features and performance of PeerLearn.
• Thanh’s knowledge in technological development ensures that PeerLearn is built with efficiency and scalability in mind.
• LinkedIn:

3) Phuong Vo (UI/UX Designer)

• Phuong Vo is a skilled user interface designer who will be responsible for designing the web and mobile interfaces for PeerLearn.
• Her goal is to deliver an intuitive and seamless user experience, ensuring that the platform is both functional and visually appealing for educators and learners alike.
• Telegram: Phuong Vo

4) An Nguyen (Application Development Manager)

• An Nguyen has a proven track record of managing the development of various applications, including the popular Know car rental app.
• An will lead the overall development of the PeerLearn app, ensuring it meets technical requirements and operates smoothly.
• Telegram: An Nguyen

5) Cong Chi (Full Stack Developer)

• Cong Chi is a full stack developer with a broad range of experience in both front-end and back-end development.
• He will focus on building the core functionalities of PeerLearn, ensuring that the platform is reliable, secure, and scalable for global users.
• Telegram: Công Chí

6) PaaS Development Team (Smart Contract Developers)

• The PaaS development team specializes in smart contract development, proficient in languages like Plutus and Aiken. They have successfully delivered Catalyst-funded projects such as bWorks.app, cReport, and PaaS.
• For PeerLearn, this team will develop the custom smart contracts that enable secure peer-to-peer interactions and payments between learners and educators on the platform.
• Telegram: PaaS

7) Future Team Expansion: Once the platform is launched, we plan to bring in experienced marketers to spearhead global marketing campaigns, leveraging social media to attract and engage users worldwide. These marketing efforts will be crucial for building the user base and driving adoption.

By having an experienced and skilled team in place with relevant backgrounds, we ensure that PeerLearn will be delivered with high standards and will contribute significantly to the Cardano ecosystem.

[BUDGET & COSTS] Please provide a cost breakdown of the proposed work and resources

Milestone 1: Backend System Development & Basic Frontend Setup

Budget: 15,000 ADA (12.5%)

• Development of the backend system for user management, course creation, and data storage.
• Basic frontend allowing users to register, log in, and access their accounts.

Milestone 2: Full Frontend Development & Course Creation System

Budget: 28,000 ADA (23.3%)

• Complete frontend for educators to create courses and for learners to browse and enroll in courses.
• Full course management system linked with the backend.

Milestone 3: Cardano Wallet Integration & Fiat Payment System

Budget: 23,000 ADA (19.2%)

• Integration of Cardano wallets (Yoroi, Lace, Nami, Eternl) for future crypto functionality.
• Fiat payment system (Stripe, PayPal) integration, enabling users to purchase courses using fiat currency.

Milestone 4: Video Call System for Online Classes

Budget: 22,000 ADA (18.3%)

• Development of a custom video conferencing system for learning, with features like screen sharing, recording, and breakout rooms.

Milestone 5: AI-Powered Learning Support & User Data Analytics

Budget: 28,000 ADA (23.3%)

• AI-powered personalized learning support, including course recommendations.
• Analytics system to track and analyze user behavior and engagement.

Final Milestone: Optimization, Security, and Automated Learner-Teacher Matching + Project Close-out Report & Video

Budget: 32,000 ADA (26.7%)

• Platform optimization, security features, and automated learner-teacher matching.
• Project close-out report and final video summarizing the project.

Total budget: 120,000 ADA

Note: The allocation percentages listed above are approximate. We propose a total budget for each milestone rather than breaking down the costs of individual tasks, as it will depend on the fluctuation of ADA's price at the time of disbursement. If the price of ADA drops significantly, we will prioritize the development of critical tasks. Once the price increases, we will address any pending tasks or potentially add new features.

[VALUE FOR MONEY] How does the cost of the project represent value for money for the Cardano ecosystem?

The costs associated with PeerLearn represent significant value for the Cardano ecosystem, as they are carefully aligned with the complexity and scope of the project. We’ve calculated our budget based on industry-standard rates for software development, AI integration, and blockchain wallet functionality, ensuring that each milestone is cost-effective. Additionally, we are leveraging the professional infrastructure already established by Aladin Contract, which significantly reduces overhead costs.

Furthermore, most of the wages and expenses are based on the salary levels of skilled developers in Southeast Asia, which are comparatively lower than those in other regions. This allows us to deliver a high-quality dApp at a fraction of the cost typically seen in similar projects. By optimizing our resources in this way, we ensure that the project remains cost-efficient while delivering a robust and scalable solution. This approach maximizes value for the Cardano community, offering a high return on investment by promoting blockchain adoption in the global education sector.