What stays fixed and what can change

Local relevance is essential, but it must not create a different Bitcoin Diploma standard.

You may:

• replace a foreign example with a relevant local one
• teach across more sessions
• use a simulation instead of real funds
• use printed screens instead of a live website
• choose a suitable local wallet or payment scenario
• invite a qualified local expert
• adapt how a learner communicates or controls a device; and
• use a suitable equivalent activity when needed for accessibility.

You may not:

• remove a required competency or competency criterion
• change what a learner must ultimately explain or demonstrate
• substitute attendance, effort, or independent review for evidence
• lower the passing or safety standard
• require learners to expose private financial information
• turn a local service into a global recommendation
• issue a certificate of completion before all competencies have met standard; or
• move advanced technical or professional content into the required Bitcoin Diploma at the cost of required learning.

The Bitcoin Diploma follows the four-stage learning arc Problem → Solution → Action → Connect. Modules 1–2 develop the Problem and Solution through explanation, comparison, and reasoning. Module 3 develops safe Action. Module 4 is the educator-curated Connect stage, where learners link the shared learning to a local need or opportunity, realistic alternative, safe performance, and responsible next step.

Module 4 is required Bitcoin Diploma learning, curated by educators as the local subject-matter experts. The scenario or tool may change, but every learner seeking certification must meet C7 through a local activity that covers the purpose of C7.1 and C7.2.

Advanced Learning is optional follow-on learning beyond the Bitcoin Diploma. Detailed mining, transaction mechanics, Lightning operations, multisignature design, institutional custody, organizational treasury, regulation, accounting, tax, compliance, investment analysis, policy, and deep technical topics do not belong in the required beginner experience.

When an interesting question would pull the group into advanced material, acknowledge it and protect the course sequence. A useful response is:

That is an important question. It needs more foundation than we have built so far, so I am placing it in our follow-up list. Let us first complete the idea that will help us answer it well.