Elevating Cardano - Educate With Game Playground For Highschool and University Student

[GENERAL] Name and surname of main applicant

Menilik Eshetu

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

Entity (Incorporated)

[GENERAL] Co-proposers and additional applicants

Goh Yeshitawe

• Director of Ict incubation Center | STEAM Center Manager | Assistant Lecturer at Dilla University with more than 7 years of experience
• Conducting research, curating educational resources, and organizing content

- Contact address: goh.yeshitaw@gmail.com

- P.O.Box: 419

- E-mail: pirdir@du.edu.et

- Phone: +251461310001, 

     +251463312459

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

4

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

No

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

Learning blockchain is not an easy process for youngsters, especially secondary school or college students, at least not fun enough. Now let's change the old ways.

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

No

[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.”

No dependencies.

[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

Since it a fully open program, everything will be open source including documentation, video, and any resource

[METADATA] Horizons

Education

[SOLUTION] Please describe your proposed solution

Build high quality Tutorials, Games and Fun activity to accelerate the process of learning Cardano, and encourage youngsters to learn Plutus as their primary programming language.

This is a weekend program for students since from Monday to friday all students attend regular school programs.

The weekend program is specifically designed to cater to high school and university students who are eager to delve into the world of blockchain technology and the Cardano ecosystem. Over the course of the program, students will engage in a series of interactive sessions aimed at providing them with a comprehensive understanding of key blockchain concepts, Cardano's role in the ecosystem, and the potential applications of decentralized technologies. Through a combination of lectures, hands-on exercises, and group discussions, students will have the opportunity to explore blockchain fundamentals, learn basic programming skills, and gain practical experience in developing blockchain solutions. The program will be structured to accommodate students' existing weekday schedules, with sessions held on weekends to ensure maximum accessibility and participation.

Key features include

1. Interactive Tutorials: Engaging tutorials designed to provide hands-on learning experiences and practical skills in blockchain technology.
2. Gamified Activities: Interactive games and activities integrated into the platform to make learning fun and engaging for students.
3. Discussion Board: A discussion board feature modeled, allowing students to interact, collaborate, and share ideas with peers.Discussion board on Cardano Playground (just like the community of https://leetcode.com)
4. Unique ‘Blockchain: Foundations and Use Cases’ Certificate: Upon completion of the program, students will have the opportunity to earn a certificate as a tangible reward for their learning achievements.
5. Enjoyable learning weekend with snacks and soft drinks: The incorporation of learning throughout the days, students will have a snack and soft drinks.
6. Enjoyable and Rewarding Learning: The incorporation of interactive tutorials, gamified activities, and tangible rewards in ADA ensures that learning is both educational and enjoyable for students, motivating them to actively participate and engage with the content.

objective 

The primary objective of the program is to equip students with a foundational understanding of blockchain technology and the Cardano ecosystem, empowering them to become active participants in the rapidly evolving field of decentralized technologies. By the end of the program, students should be able to articulate key blockchain concepts, demonstrate proficiency in basic programming languages, and apply their knowledge to real-world blockchain projects. 

Success will be measured by students' ability to actively engage in blockchain communities, contribute to blockchain projects or discussions, and pursue further learning opportunities in the field.

Available Solutions:

While there are existing educational initiatives within the blockchain space, our project distinguishes itself through its focus on gamified learning experiences tailored specifically to the Cardano ecosystem. Unlike traditional tutorials, our project will offer a unique blend of education and entertainment, making the learning journey enjoyable and engaging for students.

Game Ideas for Teaching Cardano and Blockchain to Students

1. Blockchain Scavenger Hunt:

• Objective: Students must find hidden information or clues related to blockchain technology and Cardano.
• How to Play: We will Create a series of clues or riddles that lead students to different locations or online resources. The final clue could lead to a hidden prize or a special message about Cardano.

2. Crypto Trading Simulation:

• Objective: Students simulate trading cryptocurrencies, including Cardano, to learn about market dynamics, risk, and reward.
• How to Play: We will Use a virtual trading platform or a simple spreadsheet to create a simulated market. Students can start with a certain amount of virtual currency and trade to try to increase their wealth.

3. Blockchain Trivia Challenge:

• Objective: Test students' knowledge of blockchain technology and Cardano through a trivia game.
• How to Play: We will Divide students into teams and ask them questions about various topics related to blockchain, such as history, concepts, and applications. The team with the most correct answers wins.

4. Blockchain Debate:

• Objective: Encourage critical thinking and debate about the potential benefits and drawbacks of blockchain technology and Cardano.
• How to Play: Assign students to different roles (e.g., blockchain enthusiasts, skeptics, regulators) and provide them with arguments to support their positions. They can then debate the topic in front of the class.

5. Blockchain Hackathon:

• Objective: Challenge students to create innovative blockchain-based solutions to real-world problems.
• How to Play: Provide students with a specific problem or challenge related to blockchain or Cardano. They can then work in teams to develop a solution and present it to the class.

Curriculum Module Overview Lists:

Each modules have have list different topics to be discovered:

It will be improved throughout the project's community feedback and suggestions.

• Introduction to Blockchain Technology:
• What is blockchain?
• How does blockchain work?
• History of blockchain technology.
• Key components of a blockchain.
• Understanding Cardano:
• Introduction to Cardano.
• Cardano's approach to blockchain.
• Key features and components of the Cardano ecosystem.
• Comparison with other blockchain platforms.
• Basic Programming Skills:
• Introduction to programming languages (e.g., Haskell, Plutus).
• Basics of functional programming overview.
• Syntax and structure of programming languages.
• Writing simple code snippets and programs.
• Smart Contracts and DApps:
• What are smart contracts?
• Introduction to decentralized applications (DApps).
• How smart contracts work on the Cardano blockchain.
• Examples of smart contract use cases.
• Cardano Wallets and Transactions:
• Types of Cardano wallets (e.g., Daedalus, Yoroi).
• How to set up and use a Cardano wallet.
• Sending and receiving ADA transactions.
• Overview of transaction fees and confirmation times.
• Cardano Ecosystem Projects:
• Overview of projects built on the Cardano blockchain.
• Examples of decentralized finance (DeFi) projects.
• Gaming and NFT projects on Cardano.
• Real-world applications and use cases.
• Security and Privacy in Blockchain:
• Importance of security in blockchain.
• Common security threats and vulnerabilities.
• Best practices for secure blockchain development.
• Privacy features in Cardano and other blockchains.
• Community Engagement and Resources:
• Joining Cardano community forums and groups.
• Accessing educational resources and tutorials.
• Participating in hackathons and developer challenges.
• Contributing to open-source projects on GitHub.
• Hands-On Exercises and Projects Objective:
• Building a simple smart contract on the Cardano blockchain overviews.
• Developing a basic decentralized application (DApp) overview.
• Creating and deploying a token on Cardano overviews.
• Certification and Recognition:
• Criteria for earning a Cardano blockchain certification.
• Benefits of obtaining certification for career advancement.

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

Cardano is an amazing network and community. We would love to see more developers joining us, especially young people.

High school and university students are the backbone of our future. As the next generation of leaders, innovators, and problem-solvers, they hold the key to unlocking the full potential of our ecosystem and driving sustainable growth of a country. By investing in their education and empowering them with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the digital age, we not only cultivate a new generation of developers but also foster a culture of innovation and progress that propels our ecosystem forward.

To encourage students developing in the Cardano ecosystem, we introduce Cardano via an interactive coding tutorial, which is analogous to in person learning platforms and Cardano Playground. A normal highschool and University student can easily get a high taste of what software programming is, how the development process goes, what can be done, and how the codes should be written, on the Playground.

To make it fun, there will be a story throughout the whole learning journey. Young people would be able to follow the story to go through the learning process. After they finish the class, they would be able to have a cardano BlochChain Foundation certificate.

Basically, Our aim is to guide young students from having no prior knowledge of blockchain to crafting their initial simple smart contract on the Cardano blockchain in an engaging and fun manner. By doing so, we seek to bolster the community of student developers exploring opportunities within the Cardano ecosystem. Embracing a 'try before you dive in' methodology, we strive to minimize entry hurdles for budding blockchain enthusiasts, motivating them to experiment with Cardano.

The platform will greatly increase the number of the Cardano developers, especially the new generations, as result in a wider adoption of the technology, and eventually promoting the whole ecosystem growth. Also, the platform will create a new career opportunity for those who want to advocate the blockchain industry, and especially the Cardano ecosystem.

Students using the Playground will be able to:

• Learn basic programming skills
• Learn the foundation of blockchain
• Write codes with result checks

STEM and ICT Technology Incubation educators using the Playground will be able to:

• Teach programming skills using Haskell
• Teach introductory courses of blockchain (technical parts)

References:

• STEM Center : https://www.du.edu.et/?q=node/257
• Playground for Learning Center: https://www.stempower.org/dilla-stem-center
• 
  

Possible Future Direction:

• Encourage Secondary schools and University Students to adopt the teaching material in STEM classes or extra curricular activities, which is going to be a common practice in the South East African region.
• Certification after attending and passing all in-person lectures
• Community of alumni from the Cardano Playground
• Discussion board on Cardano Playground (just like the community of https://leetcode.com)

Measurements for assessing the impact of the project on the Cardano ecosystem

• Developer Participation:
• New developers introduced to Cardano.
• Increase in developers contributing to Cardano.
• Simple Projects developed.
• Community Engagement:
• Active users engaged with project resources.
• Interaction frequency on community platforms.
• User-generated content creation.
• Educational Impact:
• Pre-/post-assessment scores on Cardano knowledge.
• Participant confidence in development.
• Institutions adopting project materials.
• Adoption and Integration:
• Schools/universities using project materials.
• Feedback from students on resource effectiveness.
• Collaborations formed for promotion of blockchain education.
• Long-Term Sustainability:
• Participant retention rate.
• Alumni contribution to Cardano ecosystem.
• Sustainability of community engagement efforts.

Key Metrics and Success Criteria

• Filling gaps identified during the exploration stage.
• Increasing the number of developers actively building on Cardano.
• Cultivating a sense of community and fostering meaningful conversations.
• Becoming a platform for young individuals to experience Cardano, even without prior blockchain knowledge, with the aim of encouraging their participation as developers.

Acceptance Criteria and Success Indicators

• Willingness of high schools and universities students to incorporate the Cardano Playground into their learning environments.
• Adoption of the Cardano Playground by STEM classes.
• Meeting Key Performance Indicators (KPIs):
• Each Month: Achieve 50+ student registrations and empower 50+ students with basic Cardano foundations in High quality and Fun activity..
• Regular submission of updated reports with evidence.
• Total: Over 200 student registrations and empowerment with advanced Cardano knowledge.

Further Development Opportunities

• Creation of an open-source tutorial builder, allowing community members to contribute ideas and develop their own tutorials.

We hope that via a fun experience, they would join the Cardano space as developers.

Via discussion boards, they can also discuss what's a better solution like what happened in the communities.

[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 has achieved significant milestones in the realm of educational mobile applications, boasting over 100,000 downloads and maintaining an active user base exceeding 60,000. You can explore our flagship app here: link.

Our team is proud to be partnered with MLOps Community, a global organization at the forefront of machine learning, DevOps, and cutting-edge technology. As hosts and organizers of the Addis Ababa chapter, we facilitate Meetups , YouTube videos, newsletters, podcasts, and more, providing a platform for knowledge sharing and networking. With branches in various countries and partnerships with industry leaders like AWS, NVIDIA, Databricks and more, we have demonstrated our capacity to deliver successful events and initiatives, showcasing our commitment to innovation and community engagement.

Furthermore, we're proud to highlight our successful participation in 'Cardano for 100,000+ students,' securing funding through Fund 11. You can view our project proposal and track record here: link.

In addition to our project successes, we're thrilled to announce our collaboration with Microsoft for Startups Founders Hub, a partnership that further solidifies our commitment to innovation and growth.

While there are existing solutions in the blockchain education space, our project offers a unique approach that sets us apart. We have a track record of hosting engaging and enjoyable meetups, events, and YouTube videos, making the learning experience not only educational but also entertaining. Our previous "Women in Web" meetup event, accessible at https://lu.ma/ux9yjjhz, exemplifies our commitment to creating fun and interactive learning environments. 

Additionally, our monthly blockchain meetup events, can be found Here, showcase our experience in community engagement and knowledge sharing. By leveraging our expertise in hosting successful events and creating engaging content, we ensure that our project delivers a learning experience that is both informative and enjoyable for students.

Expertise in Educational Content: Experienced educators and subject matter experts ensure high-quality resources.

 

Transparent Financial Management: Clear budgeting, expense tracking, and reporting processes

 

Trustworthy Partnerships: Collaborations with Educational Institutions and Experts

User Feedback Integration: Actively collecting and addressing user feedback for continuous improvement

 

Well educated Leader: The project is owned and lead by BSc, MSc, BA and Cardano Blockchain Certified Associate (CBCA)

 

To manage funds properly, we follow:

 

Budget Planning

Transparent Expense Tracking

Regular Reporting

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

Preparing and Crafting Resources

• Milestone Output: Compilation and creation of resources for the Cardano Playground.
• Interactive tutorials on Cardano basics.
• Engaging games and activities.
• Teaching materials for educators.
• Acceptance Criteria: All resources must be comprehensive, accurate, and engaging.
• Success Indicators:
• Completion of tutorials covering blockchain fundamentals, Cardano ecosystem, and programming basics.
• Development of interactive games and activities to reinforce learning.
• Creation of teaching materials suitable for integration into STEM curriculums.
• Key Metrics:
• Number of resources compiled and created.
• User engagement metrics during testing phase.
• KPIs:
• Completion of at least 80% of planned resources.
• Positive feedback from initial user testing.

Development and Enhancement

• Milestone Output: Launching the initial version of the Cardano Playground and continuous improvement.
• In-person platform with tutorials, games, and teaching materials.
• Regular updates and enhancements based on user feedback.
• Acceptance Criteria: Platform must be user-friendly, accessible, and regularly updated.
• Success Indicators:
• Successful launch of the initial version of the Cardano Playground.
• Regular updates and enhancements based on user feedback.
• Key Metrics:
• User engagement metrics (e.g., number of active users, session duration).
• Feedback and satisfaction ratings from users.
• KPIs:
• Monthly updates to the platform with new content or features.
• Positive trends in user engagement metrics over time.

Community Engagement and Expansion

• Milestone Output: Building a vibrant community around the Cardano Playground and expanding its reach.
• Hosting community events and workshops.
• Collaborating with local organizations and clubs.
• Acceptance Criteria: Active engagement and participation from community members.
• Success Indicators:
• Attendance and participation in community events and workshops.
• Growth of the Cardano Playground user base.
• Key Metrics:
• Number of community events hosted.
• Increase in the number of active users and registered participants.
• KPIs:
• Positive feedback and engagement from community members.
• Expansion of the Cardano Playground user base to reach a wider audience.

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

Our team includes experts in machine learning, API, Web, Mobile and blockchain development, and project management, ensuring comprehensive coverage of all project aspects. 

1. Menilik Eshetu - Open Source Specialist and Lead Developer

• LinkedIn: Menilik eshetu linkedin
• Conducting research, curating resources, and organizing content
• and Website : Website
• Currently working at:  Singularitynet.io in Web2 and Web3
• Email: menilik.eshetu@singularitynet.io
• Github : Github account
• Website : Menilik-Website
• Cardano Blockchain Certified Associate: Menilik’s_Certificate_CBCA_5352426
• Member of Microsoft for startups founders hub

2. Biniyam Seid : Experience in Developing Web Applications using Python and JavaScript

• Linkedin : Biniyams Linkedin
• Github: Biniyams Github
• Website : Biniyams Website
• Role: Responsible for web development, focusing on Web-development, UI/UX design and implementation. Dawit brings expertise in creating an intuitive and engaging user interface and Game Activity.

3. Surafel Fikru - Blockchain Developer at Singualritynet with more than 2 year of experience    

• Experienced in programming languages such as Plutus, Haskell, Lucid, Mesh and Marlowe to build and deploy smart contracts with extensive knowledge of the Cardano blockchain
• Linkedin Profile : Linkedin Profile
• Github : Github account

4. Goh Yeshitawe(Msc) : Director of Dilla University Ict incubation Center | STEAM Center Manager | Lecturer at Dilla University with more than 7 years of experience

 : Conducting research, curating educational resources, and organizing content

 : Contact address: goh.yeshitaw@gmail.com

 : Linkedin : Goh linkedin

 : - P.O.Box: 419. 

• E-mail: pirdir@du.edu.et
• Phone: +251461310001, 

  +251463312459

5. Tollan S. Berhanu - AGI Research | AI Development | Cardano Blockchain | Full-stack Web

• Linkedin: Linkedin Profile
• Github : GIthub Profile

6. Hiwot Lemi - Creative Copywriter | Content Developer with more than years of experience 

• Linkedin : hiwote’s Linkedin
• Website : Hiwot_art.blog

7 Betelhem Girmay - Human Resource and Digital Marketing Specialist

Our team experienced professional adept at content creation, copywriting, and promotion. Betelhem will manage HR tasks while leveraging digital marketing strategies to enhance project visibility and engagement.

• Linkedin - Bethlehem's Linkedin

8 Partners and Groups with existing educational and experienced experts

• Telegram channels : Ethio_BlockChain_Network Group
• Twitter Handle : Ethio BlockChain Network / X
• General Discussion Channel : Code-Night
• Programmer Union: Programmer Union Ethiopia
• MLOps Community: https://mlops.community/

Direct lines of communication have been established to ensure effective coordination and access to necessary resources.

Team Engagement: All listed team members have been engaged and have confirmed their roles and commitment to the project timelines.

This community are in short 

Community Hub: Our Telegram channel serves as a vibrant hub for Local interested in blockchain technology. It's a place where enthusiasts, developers, and learners come together to share knowledge, ask questions, and explore the vast potential of blockchain.

Learning Opportunities: people Join us to access educational resources, discussions, and insights into blockchain technology. Whether they are a beginner or an expert, there's always something new to discover and learn in our community.

Networking Platform: Connect with like-minded individuals, experts, and professionals in the blockchain space. Forge valuable partnerships, collaborate on projects, and stay updated on the latest developments and opportunities in Local blockchain ecosystem.

Community Engagement: Engage in lively discussions, community meetups, and awareness campaigns aimed at promoting blockchain adoption and innovation in local community. Be part of a movement that's shaping the future of technology and entrepreneurship in our country.

Partnership Opportunities: Explore partnership opportunities with blockchain technology companies, startups, and organizations. Together, we can drive meaningful impact and create innovative solutions that benefit our community and beyond.

Note: Our teams are partnered with Binance Africa and started the Process of partnering with Polkadot., Singularitynet And more

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

4 months

3 * Founder(Assistant University Lecturer): 2,750.00/mo * 4 months = 11,000 ADA

2 * Web2 Developers: 4,450.00/mo * 4 months = 17, 800 ADA

2 * Web3 Developers: 4250.00/mo * 4 months = 17,000 ADA

The developer will the teach the students and all audience/attendi for the whole 4 months, prepare games and Documentations

Crypto Trading Simulation = 1000 ADA game activity

Banner, Stickers, Online media Promotions =1,500 ADA

Certificate = 1,200 ADA

Game Activity Rewards for 15 students: 100 ADA * 15/students = 1,500 ADA

Snack, Soft Drink/mo * 4 months = 8,000 ADA

Risk / Contingency Reserve : 6000 ADA

Reserved for addressing unforeseen challenge or additional needs during project execution

Total Budget: 65,000.00 ADA

Meanwhile, we are still balancing and optimizing the cost. Feel free to give any advice! We are still exploring on cost and seeking volunteers (friends) to join the team.

 Note: The Salary, cost and budget allocation for the Ethiopian economy was determined based on research and documentation conducted by the Centre for Economic Policy Research and Université du Québec, Montréal. The research paper can be found at here

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

This project have high value for the cardano ecosystem.

• Meetup Events: The budget includes organizing meetup events to facilitate networking, and education among Cardano enthusiasts.
• User Engagement and Community Building: Budget allocation for community engagement, and networking activities fosters a vibrant Cardano user community.
• Skilled Project Team: Costs reflect the expertise of professionals in app development, content management, user engagement, and community building.
• Justified Cost Estimation: Costs are based on industry standards, market rates, and the complexity of tasks, ensuring a reasonable and value-driven budget.
• Project Users Community: The project aims to build a strong community of Cardano Blockchain students, promoting collaboration, feedback, and knowledge sharing.
• Comprehensive Educational Resources: The project delivers valuable educational materials for students, representing a cost-effective investment in knowledge acquisition.