Introduction to the blockchain, Bitcoin, and other cryptocurrencies for educators

The rise of blockchain technology and the emergence of cryptocurrencies, most notably Bitcoin, have transformed the landscape of finance and technology. This article fulfills three main roles: The first is to show the rapid rate that these technologies are affecting the global landscape, emphasizing the compelling need to integrate these topics into educational curricula, as enabling students to grasp the intricacies of decentralized systems and digital currencies will soon be necessary for their full economic participation in society. Second, this article introduces the concepts of blockchain and Bitcoin, presenting their foundational principles followed by their relationship. Both are viewed in terms of their historical development while emphasizing their decentralized and immutable nature, cryptographic security, and blockchain’s potential applications beyond cryptocurrencies. Third, this article presents several perspectives from which blockchain, Bitcoin, and other cryptocurrencies might be taught, including historical, technological, legal, social, economic, political, and environmental contexts. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag London Ltd., part of Springer Nature 2024.