A simulating Chatbot Prototype for training Users on Blockchain Technology

Abstract

With the rise of complex new technologies such as Blockchain, there is need for development of systems that can be used to teach and learn these technologies. A simulative Chatbot is one such revolutionary system of technology that can be used to teach and learn these modern technologies. The aim of this study was to determine the effectiveness of the current systems in learning Blockchain with a view of developing a Chatbot prototype to learn Blockchain technology. The objectives of the study were to: determine the effectiveness of the current systems in learning Blockchain technology; analyze the simulative Chatbot in relation to the learning of Blockchain technology; and design and develop a simulative Chatbot for learning Blockchain technology. The theoretical framework adopted was informed by Siemen’s theory of Connectivism and B.F Skinner’s Theory of Behaviorism. The study adopted a mixed method research approach for requirement gathering and analysis and evolutionary prototyping for the prototype development. The target population comprised of all 130 active Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Moi University chapter members. Stratified random sampling technique was used to select 114 respondents as follows; 21 IT consultants, 19 computer scientists, 8 lecturers from IEEE, 34 IT students, 4 IT business persons, 22 engineers, and 6 learners from fields outside IT. Data collection instruments were: Online Google forms and document analysis. Ethical considerations were anti-plagiarism checks and permission from the National Commission for Science, Technology and Innovation. The Chatbot runs on an Android mobile platform. The reliability of the prototype developed was achieved by the consistency of the outcomes obtained through repeated closed testing and by including test results attained from the Google play console testing. The findings revealed that the simulating Chatbot enables learners to learn more about Blockchain technology. From the testing of the prototype it was revealed that the prototype had 98% stability on touch target size. The testing showed that learners were able to learn the Blockchain concept with ease. The study concludes that the learning of Blockchain technology needs special training for better understanding. The study recommended that there was need to develop systems such as android applications that can teach complex new technologies such as Blockchain. Theoretical and practical contributions have been made to advance understanding of effective teaching and learning strategies and enhance the accessibility, engagement, and outcomes of a blockchain education