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Blockchain and Cryptocurrency Explained

4.7 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Half star
Based on 916 ratings
see reviews
Robert Dittmar and Andrew Wu

The sudden rise in the value of Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies, and its subsequent decline, focused the world’s attention on cryptocurrencies as a means of payment. Blockchain technology powers Bitcoin and has been hyped as the next new, transformative technology.

In this course, we first discuss the technical underpinnings of blockchain and review key concepts such as decentralization and consensus algorithms.

We then examine blockchain as an asset and review the dynamics of the cryptocurrency markets.

Read more

The sudden rise in the value of Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies, and its subsequent decline, focused the world’s attention on cryptocurrencies as a means of payment. Blockchain technology powers Bitcoin and has been hyped as the next new, transformative technology.

In this course, we first discuss the technical underpinnings of blockchain and review key concepts such as decentralization and consensus algorithms.

We then examine blockchain as an asset and review the dynamics of the cryptocurrency markets.

Finally, we examine blockchain as a business solution, with a focus on understanding business cases in which blockchain does and does not make sense.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction
Introduction to Blockchain and Crypto
Blockchain as an Asset
Read more

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Teaches blockchain technology fundamentals, ideal for beginners in the field
Explores blockchain's potential as a transformative technology in various industries
Provides insights into the dynamics of the cryptocurrency markets, catering to those interested in investing or understanding the market
Instructs learners on the technical foundations of blockchain, including decentralization and consensus algorithms
Develops a deep understanding of blockchain's business applications, making it relevant for professionals seeking to leverage this technology strategically
Taught by Andrew Wu and Robert Dittmar, both experts in the field and recognized for their contributions to blockchain technology

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Reviews summary

Broad introduction to blockchain & crypto

According to learners, this course provides a largely positive introduction to blockchain and cryptocurrency. Students appreciate its accessibility for beginners and the clear explanations of fundamental concepts like consensus algorithms. The course's broad structure, covering blockchain as a technology, an asset, and a business solution, is highlighted as a key strength, offering a useful overall picture. However, a common point raised is the course's lack of deep technical or financial detail, making it more of a survey than a specialized program. Some reviewers also note that content, particularly on market dynamics, can become outdated quickly due to the volatile nature of the topic.
Covers technical, asset, and business aspects.
"Covered the basics clearly and explained complex topics... The sections on blockchain as an asset and business solution were particularly valuable for understanding real-world applications."
"It manages to cover a lot of ground without getting bogged down in excessive jargon. The structure is logical."
"Provides a good foundation. The instructor is knowledgeable. Covers the main aspects: tech, asset, business."
"The breakdown into Asset and Business sections after the intro was a smart move. It helped me see beyond just Bitcoin..."
Clear and accessible introduction to topic.
"Excellent introduction to blockchain and crypto. Covered the basics clearly and explained complex topics... in an understandable way. Highly recommended for beginners."
"Great for someone completely new."
"Perfect for getting a broad understanding. ... This course delivered exactly that. Clear, concise, and well-structured."
"Fantastic course for a complete novice. It demystifies blockchain and cryptocurrency."
Market/industry data may become outdated.
"The market dynamics section was interesting but could become outdated quickly."
"Found the technical parts confusing and not well explained. ... The market section felt irrelevant by the time I took the course."
"The course feels outdated. The focus is too much on the early days of Bitcoin, and the current state of the market... has moved on significantly."
"Good overall, but maybe update the market data?"
Not a deep dive into technical or financial specifics.
"A decent starting point but doesn't go very deep into any one area. It touches on technical, financial, and business aspects but feels more like a survey course."
"If you want deep technical understanding or detailed investment strategies, this isn't it."
"The content is alright for an absolute beginner, but it lacks depth. ... Felt like I needed to take another course immediately after to get a better grasp."
"While it covers the basics, it doesn't prepare you for anything practical."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Blockchain and Cryptocurrency Explained with these activities:
Read the books on blockchain technology
Provide students with a strong basis in blockchain technology, allowing them to better understand the subject matter
View Mastering Ethereum: Building Smart Contracts... on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read Chapter 1-3.
  • Summarize the key concepts in the chapters.
Understand Bitcoin and cryptocurrency terminology
Review the syllabus and think of any terms or ideas that you may need to refresh or look up. Search for terms related to Blockchain and Cryptocurrency on reliable sources like Wikipedia or Medium.
Browse courses on Blockchain
Show steps
  • Review the course syllabus and identify key terms and concepts
  • Research and define terms using reliable online resources or textbooks
  • Complete practice exercises or quizzes to test your understanding
Follow online tutorials and resources
Provide students with supplemental resources and structured guidance to reinforce their understanding of blockchain technology
Browse courses on Blockchain Technology
Show steps
  • Identify reputable online tutorials and resources
  • Follow the tutorials on a regular basis
  • Complete the practice exercises and assignments
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Attend blockchain conferences and meetups
Facilitate connections and knowledge sharing among students and industry professionals
Browse courses on Networking
Show steps
  • Identify relevant blockchain conferences and meetups
  • Register and attend the events
  • Network with attendees
  • Learn about the latest trends and developments in blockchain technology
Engage in regular online discussions
Encourage students to actively engage with course material and strengthen their understanding through peer interactions
Browse courses on Blockchain Technology
Show steps
  • Participate in at least 2 online discussions per week
  • Read and analyze the discussion topics and responses
  • Share your own insights and perspectives on the blockchain technology
Attend workshops on specific blockchain topics
Provide students with in-depth knowledge and hands-on experience in specific areas of blockchain technology
Browse courses on Blockchain
Show steps
  • Identify workshops that align with your interests
  • Register and attend the workshops
  • Actively participate in the hands-on exercises
  • Network with instructors and fellow participants
Create a blog or article on blockchain technology
Challenge students to synthesize their knowledge, develop their communication skills, and demonstrate their grasp of blockchain technology
Browse courses on Blockchain Technology
Show steps
  • Choose a specific topic related to blockchain technology
  • Research and gather information from credible sources
  • Organize and outline your content
  • Write and edit your blog or article
Participate in blockchain hackathons or challenges
Provide students with an immersive and practical learning experience by applying their knowledge in a competitive setting
Browse courses on Blockchain Technology
Show steps
  • Identify blockchain hackathons or challenges
  • Form a team or work individually
  • Develop a solution or prototype
  • Submit your project and present it to judges

Career center

Learners who complete Blockchain and Cryptocurrency Explained will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Blockchain Developer
As a Blockchain Developer, you will be responsible for designing, developing, and implementing blockchain solutions for a variety of applications. This course will provide you with the foundation you need to understand the technical underpinnings of blockchain and develop the skills necessary to build and deploy blockchain applications.
See salaries and explore the career path for Blockchain Developer
Cryptocurrency Analyst
As a Cryptocurrency Analyst, you will be responsible for researching, analyzing, and forecasting the cryptocurrency markets. This course will provide you with the knowledge you need to understand the dynamics of the cryptocurrency markets and make informed investment decisions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Cryptocurrency Analyst
Blockchain Consultant
As a Blockchain Consultant, you will be responsible for helping businesses understand and implement blockchain technology. This course will provide you with the knowledge you need to understand the business applications of blockchain and develop strategies for implementing blockchain solutions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Blockchain Consultant
Financial Analyst
As a Financial Analyst, you will be responsible for analyzing financial data and making investment recommendations. This course will provide you with the knowledge you need to understand the financial implications of blockchain technology and make informed investment decisions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Financial Analyst
Data Scientist
As a Data Scientist, you will be responsible for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data to solve business problems. This course will provide you with the skills you need to use blockchain technology to collect and analyze data and develop data-driven solutions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist
Project Manager
As a Project Manager, you will be responsible for planning, executing, and delivering blockchain projects. This course will provide you with the knowledge you need to understand the project management lifecycle and develop the skills necessary to manage blockchain projects successfully.
See salaries and explore the career path for Project Manager
Software Engineer
As a Software Engineer, you will be responsible for designing, developing, and testing software applications. This course will provide you with the skills you need to develop blockchain applications and integrate blockchain technology into existing software systems.
See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer
Business Analyst
As a Business Analyst, you will be responsible for analyzing business processes and developing solutions to improve efficiency and effectiveness. This course will provide you with the knowledge you need to understand the business applications of blockchain and develop strategies for implementing blockchain solutions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst
IT Auditor
As an IT Auditor, you will be responsible for auditing IT systems and ensuring that they are secure and compliant with regulations. This course will provide you with the knowledge you need to understand the security implications of blockchain technology and develop strategies for auditing blockchain systems.
See salaries and explore the career path for IT Auditor
Cybersecurity Analyst
As a Cybersecurity Analyst, you will be responsible for protecting computer systems and networks from cyberattacks. This course will provide you with the knowledge you need to understand the security implications of blockchain technology and develop strategies for protecting blockchain systems from cyberattacks.
See salaries and explore the career path for Cybersecurity Analyst
Investment Banker
As an Investment Banker, you will be responsible for advising clients on mergers and acquisitions, capital raising, and other financial transactions. This course will provide you with the knowledge you need to understand the financial implications of blockchain technology and advise clients on blockchain-related transactions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Investment Banker
Venture Capitalist
As a Venture Capitalist, you will be responsible for investing in early-stage companies. This course will provide you with the knowledge you need to understand the investment potential of blockchain technology and make informed investment decisions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Venture Capitalist
Product Manager
As a Product Manager, you will be responsible for developing and launching new products. This course will provide you with the knowledge you need to understand the business applications of blockchain and develop strategies for launching blockchain-based products.
See salaries and explore the career path for Product Manager
Marketing Manager
As a Marketing Manager, you will be responsible for developing and executing marketing campaigns. This course will provide you with the knowledge you need to understand the marketing implications of blockchain technology and develop strategies for marketing blockchain-based products and services.
See salaries and explore the career path for Marketing Manager
Sales Manager
As a Sales Manager, you will be responsible for leading a sales team and achieving sales targets. This course will provide you with the knowledge you need to understand the sales implications of blockchain technology and develop strategies for selling blockchain-based products and services.
See salaries and explore the career path for Sales Manager

Reading list

We've selected seven books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Blockchain and Cryptocurrency Explained.
Cover image
Mastering Bitcoin
Save
Technical guide to Bitcoin and its underlying blockchain technology. It provides detailed explanations and examples, making it suitable for those seeking a deeper understanding of the technical aspects of blockchain.
Mastering Bitcoin: Programming the Open Blockchain
Paperback
$$
Mastering Bitcoin: Programming the Open Blockchain
Audible Audiobook
$$
(Italiano) Mastering Lightning Network: Protocollo di Secondo...
Paperback
$$$
Mastering Bitcoin
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Blockchain Revolution
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of blockchain technology, discussing its potential to revolutionize various industries. It is useful for gaining a deeper understanding of the broader implications of blockchain beyond cryptocurrencies.
Blockchain Revolution: How the Technology Behind...
Paperback
$$
Blockchain Revolution: How the Technology Behind...
Paperback
$$
(Español) La revolución blockchain [The Blockchain Revolution]
Audible Audiobook
$$
Blockchain Revolution, Business Adventures Twelve...
Paperback
$$
(Português) Blockchain revolution (Portuguese Edition)
Kindle Edition
$
(Deutsch) Die Blockchain-Revolution: Wie die Technologie...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
The Business Blockchain
Save
Focuses on the business applications of blockchain technology, exploring its potential to transform various industries. It provides case studies and examples of how businesses are leveraging blockchain to improve efficiency and innovation.
The Business Blockchain: Promise, Practice, and...
Hardcover
$$
The Business Blockchain: Promise, Practice, and...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Cryptoassets: The Innovative Investor's Guide to...
Save
Provides a comprehensive analysis of the cryptocurrency market, offering insights into the investment strategies and potential risks involved in investing in digital assets. It is valuable for those seeking to understand the dynamics of the cryptocurrency market.
Cryptoassets: The Innovative Investor's Guide to...
Hardcover
$$
Cryptoassets: The Innovative Investor's Guide to...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Blockchain
Save
Explores the potential of blockchain technology to transform the global economy and society. It discusses the disruptive potential of blockchain and its implications for various industries and sectors.
Blockchain: Blueprint for a New Economy
Paperback
$$
QUANTUM COMPUTING: PHYSICS, BLOCKCHAINS, AND DEEP...
Hardcover
$$$
Blockchain Economics: Implications of Distributed...
Hardcover
$$$
Blockchain. Fundament nowej gospodarki
Paperback
$$
Blockchain: Blueprint for a New Economy
Kindle Edition
$$
Blockchain Economics: Implications Of Distributed...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Quantum Computing: Physics, Blockchains, And Deep...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
Blockchain Revolution
Save
Explores the broader implications of blockchain technology beyond cryptocurrencies. It discusses the potential of blockchain to transform various industries, including finance, healthcare, and supply chain management.
Blockchain Revolution: How the Technology Behind...
Paperback
$$
(Español) La revolución blockchain [The Blockchain Revolution]
Audible Audiobook
$$
Blockchain Revolution: How the Technology Behind...
Paperback
$$
Blockchain Revolution, Business Adventures Twelve...
Paperback
$$
(Português) Blockchain revolution (Portuguese Edition)
Kindle Edition
$
(Deutsch) Die Blockchain-Revolution: Wie die Technologie...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Investing in Cryptocurrency For Dummies
Save
Provides a practical guide to cryptocurrency investing for beginners. It explains the basics of cryptocurrencies and offers strategies for managing risk and maximizing returns.
Investing in Cryptocurrency For Dummies
Paperback
$$
Investing in Cryptocurrency For Dummies
Kindle Edition
$$

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Course image
Rating
4.7 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Half star
Effort
Approx. 8 hours
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of Michigan
Instructors
Robert Dittmar
Andrew Wu
Language
English
Transcripts
Español Français Português Deutsch Italiano 中文 العربية 한국어 日本語 हिंदी Nederlands Svenska Pусский Türkçe Polski Ελληνικά українська мова magyar nyelv Bahasa Indonesia ไทย қазақша اُردُو, فارسی বাংলা tiếng Việt پښتو آذربایجان دیلی
This course belongs to a collection called Financial Technology (Fintech) Innovations. It's comprised of four courses:
  1. Raising Capital: Credit Tech, Coin Offerings, and Crowdfunding
  2. Blockchain and Cryptocurrency Explained (viewing)
  3. The Future of Payment Technologies
  4. Innovations in Investment Technology: Artificial Intelligence
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Teaches blockchain technology fundamentals, ideal for beginners in the field
Explores blockchain's potential as a transformative technology in various industries
Provides insights into the dynamics of the cryptocurrency markets, catering to those interested in investing or understanding the market
Instructs learners on the technical foundations of blockchain, including decentralization and consensus algorithms
Develops a deep understanding of blockchain's business applications, making it relevant for professionals seeking to leverage this technology strategically
Taught by Andrew Wu and Robert Dittmar, both experts in the field and recognized for their contributions to blockchain technology
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