Qualitative Analysis of a Blockchain-based System Adoption for Academic Credentials Verification That Complies with the GDPR: GAVIN Project

This article presents a qualitative analysis of the GAVIN project (GDPR-Compliant Blockchain-Based Architecture for Universal Learning, Education and Training Information Management), an innovative blockchain-based system developed to address challenges of academic credential verification and recovery in a context where academic certificate issuance and verification is highly fragmented, with institutions operating isolated systems that hinder efficient verification and facilitate the proliferation of fraudulent documents. The GAVIN model introduces a multi-blockchain architecture aimed at recognition of formal, non-formal, and informal learning guaranteeing compliance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Following the design and development of a functional prototype, this study presents a qualitative evaluation of the model by means of a validation workshop with diverse stakeholders from the education sector, using pre- and post-workshop questionnaires grounded in the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). Results indicate a strong perceived usefulness and significant potential to improve current credentialing processes. However, concerns were raised regarding implementation feasibility, associated costs, the need for official standardization, and the importance of establishing robust governance and sustainable business models. This study offers valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities of blockchain adoption in education, providing guidance for future development and policy-making.