[PeerLearn] Smart Contract System for Peer-to-Peer Online Learning Platform

[GENERAL] Name and surname of main applicant

PeerLearn 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

Minh Chau Nguyen

Thanh Nguyen

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

6

[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)

Integrate smart contracts into peer-to-peer e-learning applications to automatically connect users with each other securely without relying on any third parties

[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.

The source code will be published here: https://github.com/PeerLearnApp/SmartContract

[METADATA] Horizons

Learn to Earn

[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.

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

The PeerLearn project aims to significantly enhance the Cardano community by integrating on-chain solutions that facilitate decentralized learning and teaching. By implementing smart contracts and a native token (PLN), we will create a secure and transparent platform for users to engage in educational activities. The success of our project will drive increased adoption of Cardano as it attracts educators and learners who are new to blockchain technology, demonstrating practical applications of Cardano's capabilities.

To measure our impact, we will utilize both quantitative metrics—such as user growth, transaction volume, and PLN token utilization—and qualitative feedback from users regarding their experiences and satisfaction with the platform. Additionally, we will track community engagement through governance participation and discussions related to platform development.

We will share our outputs and opportunities with the Cardano community through regular updates via forums, community events, and reports published on our platform. This transparency will not only keep stakeholders informed about our progress but also foster a collaborative environment where community feedback shapes future developments. Overall, PeerLearn will serve as a tangible example of how blockchain technology can revolutionize the education sector while simultaneously bolstering 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 possesses the necessary capabilities and experience to deliver the PeerLearn project with high levels of trust and accountability. We have a diverse skill set across project management, application development, smart contract deployment, UI/UX design, and R&D, which enables us to execute complex projects successfully.

Capability to Deliver:

• Project Leadership and Management: Minh Chau, as the project leader, has extensive experience managing educational projects and online courses, alongside a solid track record within the Catalyst ecosystem since Fund 7. Her ability to manage teams and work with various stakeholders ensures the project stays on track and aligned with objectives.
• Technical Expertise: Thanh Nguyen and the development team from Aladin Contract have successfully built and launched several applications, demonstrating their ability to deliver a robust platform. With their experience in R&D and smart contract implementation, the technical aspects of PeerLearn will be built on solid foundations.
• Smart Contract Development: The PaaS development team is highly skilled in Plutus and Aiken smart contract languages, and has already delivered successful projects funded by Catalyst such as bWorks.app and PaaS. Their expertise will ensure that the smart contract solutions for PeerLearn are secure, scalable, and efficient.

Feasibility Validation:

• Phased Development & Testing: Our approach is broken down into well-defined milestones, including prototype development, internal testing, and beta launches. This phased approach allows us to validate the feasibility of the solution step by step, making adjustments as necessary. The backend, frontend, and smart contracts will be tested rigorously to ensure they perform as expected under real-world conditions.
• Pilot Testing: We will conduct pilot tests with a small group of users to gather feedback on platform usability, smart contract functionality, and user experience. This will provide early validation of our approach and ensure scalability before a full launch.

Trust and Fund Management:

• Transparent Reporting: We will implement a transparent milestone-based progress tracking system. Regular progress reports will be provided to the Catalyst community, detailing how the funds are being utilized at each stage of development.
• Controlled Fund Allocation: Funds will be allocated across different project phases and tasks, ensuring that they are used efficiently. We will follow a strict budget plan that aligns with the proposal, and each milestone will be subject to review before further funds are released.
• Team Track Record: Our team members have a proven track record in managing and delivering successful projects, ensuring accountability in handling project resources and timelines. This includes our commitment to delivering within the agreed scope while managing the budget effectively.

With this level of expertise, structured planning, and accountability, we are confident in our ability to deliver PeerLearn successfully.

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

Smart Contract Development and Testing

A. Milestone outputs:

• Development of core smart contracts for PeerLearn that enable secure, automated interactions between learners and educators.
• Initial testing of these smart contracts in a test environment.

B. Acceptance criteria:

• Smart contracts successfully handle key transactions (e.g., course enrollments, payments) in a test environment.
• Security and functionality are validated through internal tests.

C. Evidence of milestone completion:

• Smart contract codebase available on a repository (e.g., GitHub).
• Test reports confirming successful execution of the contracts in a test environment.

Estimated hours: 200 hours

Token PLN Issuance and Tokenomics Development

A. Milestone outputs:

• Creation and deployment of the PeerLearn native token (PLN) on the Cardano blockchain.
• Development of a comprehensive tokenomics model, including distribution, utility, and incentive mechanisms.

B. Acceptance criteria:

• PLN tokens are successfully minted and deployed on the Cardano network.
• The tokenomics model is documented and integrated into the platform, defining the role and utility of PLN within the ecosystem.

C. Evidence of milestone completion:

• Token contract details and blockchain explorer links showing PLN token issuance.
• Documentation of the tokenomics model available for community review.

Estimated hours: 150 hours

Crypto Payment System Development

A. Milestone outputs:

• Implementation of a crypto payment system allowing users to pay for courses and other services using PLN or other cryptocurrencies.

B. Acceptance criteria:

• Users can successfully make payments using PLN and other accepted cryptocurrencies through smart contract execution.
• All transactions are recorded on-chain and reflect accurate payment amounts.

C. Evidence of milestone completion:

• Demonstration of successful crypto transactions for course payments.
• Transaction logs on the Cardano blockchain.

Estimated hours: 200 hours

Transaction Fee Mechanism with PLN Token

A. Milestone outputs:

• Development of a system where transaction fees within the PeerLearn platform are paid using PLN tokens, reducing friction in the platform’s economy.
• Integration of the fee system into the platform’s smart contracts.

B. Acceptance criteria:

• Smart contracts calculate and collect transaction fees in PLN during each user transaction.
• Transaction fee collection works seamlessly for course enrollments, payments, and other interactions.

C. Evidence of milestone completion:

• Test cases showing successful fee collection in PLN for different transactions.
• Blockchain records showing transactions with applied PLN fees.

Estimated hours: 150 hours

Reward Distribution System for PLN Token Holders

A. Milestone outputs:

• Design and implementation of a reward distribution system that incentivizes PLN token holders by distributing rewards based on token holdings.

B. Acceptance criteria:

• PLN token holders receive periodic rewards based on their token balance and platform-defined criteria.
• The reward distribution process is automated via smart contracts.

C. Evidence of milestone completion:

• Test cases showing successful reward distribution to PLN token holders.
• On-chain records verifying reward transactions.

Estimated hours: 180 hours

Final Optimization, Security Audits & Project Close-out

A. Milestone outputs:

• Final optimization of all smart contracts, including security enhancements.
• External security audits to ensure the robustness and security of the system.
• Submission of a project close-out report and video demonstrating the key on-chain features and their successful integration into PeerLearn.

B. Acceptance criteria:

• Security audit reports confirming the safety of smart contracts and token transactions.
• All systems function optimally in a live environment.
• Close-out report and video detailing project achievements and key functionalities.

C. Evidence of milestone completion:

• Security audit report and performance test results.
• Project close-out report and video submitted to the community.

Estimated hours: 220 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: Smart Contract Development and Testing

Budget: 12,000 ADA (13%)

Development of core smart contracts for PeerLearn that enable secure, automated interactions between learners and educators. Initial testing of these smart contracts in a test environment.

Milestone 2: Token PLN Issuance and Tokenomics Development

Budget: 21,000 ADA (23%)

Creation and deployment of the PeerLearn native token (PLN) on the Cardano blockchain. Development of a comprehensive tokenomics model, including distribution, utility, and incentive mechanisms.

Milestone 3: Crypto Payment System Development

Budget: 20,000 ADA (22%)

Implementation of a crypto payment system allowing users to pay for courses and other services using PLN or other cryptocurrencies.

Milestone 4: Transaction Fee Mechanism with PLN Token

Budget: 19,000 ADA (21%)

Development of a transaction fee system where transaction fees within the PeerLearn platform are paid using PLN tokens, reducing friction in the platform’s economy.

Milestone 5: Reward Distribution System for PLN Token Holders

Budget: 20,000 ADA (22%)

Design and implementation of a reward distribution system that incentivizes PLN token holders by distributing rewards based on token holdings.

Final Milestone: Final Optimization, Security Audits & Project Close-out

Budget: 32,000 ADA (35%)

Final optimization of all smart contracts, security audits, and submission of the project close-out report and video demonstrating the key on-chain features and their successful integration into PeerLearn.

Total budget: 92,000 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.