An Introduction to Blockchain, Crypto, NFTs, Web3

Promises & Pitfalls: Blockchain, Crypto, NFT, DAO, & DeFi

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Spring 2023 Dates (Remote)
EXD 201: April 12 - May 10, 2023
Time: Every Wednesday, 6:00pm to 8:00pm EDT
Tuition: $665
Online Platform: Webex & Blackboard - Remote

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The internet was initially dismissed as a fad, and so too were cryptocurrencies and other digital assets. Will the early investors in Bitcoin, Ethereum and collectible NFTs someday look as prescient as Steve Jobs and Bill Gates? While banks are exploring digital currencies and fashion brands are selling virtual handbags for thousands of dollars, many people are still trying to make sense of it all—and wondering whether gyrations in the crypto market mean it was a ruse all along. To answer these questions, we will dive into the foundations of Web3: blockchains, cryptocurrency, NFTs, DAOs and DeFi. In addition to examining the how, we will also explore the why of these technologies and ask if their promises are being fulfilled. Participants will finish the course with a solid understanding of blockchains and what distinguishes them; how cryptocurrencies operate and where to purchase them; the key features of NFTs and the Metaverse; and the functioning (or dysfunction) of decentralized autonomous organizations (“DAOs”) and decentralized finance (“DeFi”). In each instance we will consider business use cases and practical applications for the technology and question whether it is merely a passing fad, or, truly revolutionary.

After completing this program you will receive a digital badge.

Learn How To

  • Explain the key terminology of Web3
  • Detail the basic mechanism of a blockchain, and the key distinctions between different types of blockchains, including the significance of Layer2, zero-knowledge proofs, etc.
  • Articulate how native cryptocurrencies function, and distinguish them from other tokens and ICOs
  • Articulate what an NFT is, how one is created, and how it is purchased and traded
  • Understand the current regulatory environment with respect to crypto assets
  • Identify successful use cases for blockchain technology, DAOs and DeFi, and understand where reality falls short of the promises
  • Explain the differences between NFT platforms, the rights associated with each and the issues surrounding interoperability
  • Evaluate resale royalty payment possibilities embedded in NFTs and how that relates to royalties for creators in non-virtual environments
  • Understand how to access the Metaverse, how to buy and store cryptocurrency, and how to trade NFTs and other tokens

Outline

Why FIT?

  • Classes taught by top industry experts
  • FIT’s approach combines rigor, completeness, and accessibility, and we pay special attention to the ways in which these technological innovations intersect with creative industries and luxury markets
  • Earn a digital badge from FIT/SUNY, a world renowned college of art and design, business and technology

Meet Your Instructor

Franklin Boyd

Franklin Boyd
Franklin Boyd works at the intersection of law, finance, art, and entrepreneurship. A New York-based attorney with a general commercial practice, Franklin advises Web3 entrepreneurs, including crypto and DeFi investors, NFT platform builders and collectors as well as helping to construct governance proposals for decentralized autonomous organizations. In addition to her legal practice, Franklin teaches courses on NFTs, art law and art finance in graduate art and arts administration programs, including at the School of Visual Arts and the Sotheby’s Institute of Art. She is an active member of cultural DAOs, is a current board member of Shandaken Projects and a former board member of Zer01 and Art in General, among other nonprofits. Franklin began her legal career at Cravath, Swaine & Moore, LLP, after having worked in the General Counsel’s office at the Metropolitan Museum of Art and for the State Attorney General of New York.

Outline

  • Fundamentals of Blockchains and Cryptocurrencies, including hot and cold wallets and Smart Contract
  • NFTs, Other Tokens, Collectibles and the Metaverse
  • DAOs and DeFi
  • Regulatory Environment and Other Legal Challenges
  • Business Cases for Blockchain, NFTs, and DAOs

Center for Continuing and Professional Studies (CCPS)

FIT's CCPS offers credit and noncredit certificates and courses in fashion, business, design, technology, and marketing, to help you enter into or advance your career in the fashion and related industries. With short programs and flexible schedules, you can learn at a time and pace you can manage and afford.