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Decentralized Finance (DeFi) Essentials & Foundations

Bina Ramamurthy

This course introduces you to the fundamentals that power the Decentralized Financial (DeFi) System. Our goal is to have you walk away an informed user of the applications, tools & techniques underlying the DeFi System.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction
In this module, we introduce the concept of Decentralized Finance (DeFi) and the fundamentals that power the DeFi system. Additionally, we explore decentralized identity and how to mange it to transact on an Ethereum, blockchain-based test network.
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Enabling Technologies
In this module, we will explore smart contracts, enabling technologies, and the scaling solution offered in Ethereum Layer 2.
Decentralized Applications & Web 3.0
We discuss Decentralized Applications (DApps) and the role of Web 3.0 technologies in this module. We also explore crypto-related features on a centralized exchange.
Coins, Tokens, & Tokenization
In this module, we focus on the use of coins and tokens as cryptocurrencies. We also explore the evolution of standards.

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Covers essential concepts of DeFi, including decentralized identity, smart contracts, and scaling solutions
Familiarizes learners with cryptocurrencies, tokens, and tokenization, which are fundamental to DeFi
Provides practical experience through decentralized applications (DApps) and hands-on exercises on Ethereum
Instructors Bina Ramamurthy are recognized experts in the DeFi field
Course content is highly relevant to those looking to understand and engage with DeFi

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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 Decentralized Finance (DeFi) Essentials & Foundations with these activities:
Review a Primer on Crypto
Understanding the core concepts of crypto and blockchain will provide a strong foundation for the DeFi System.
Browse courses on Blockchain
Show steps
  • Read through this short guide: https://www.blockchain-council.org/blockchain/cryptocurrency-vs-blockchain-vs-bitcoin/
  • Watch this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SSo_EIwHSZw
Review Cryptoassets: The Innovative Investor's Guide to Bitcoin and Beyond
Review this essential text that explores the fundamental concepts of cryptocurrency and blockchain technology. Gain a strong foundation before delving into the DeFi landscape.
View Cryptoassets: The Innovative Investor's Guide... on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read the introduction and first two chapters to grasp core concepts.
  • Summarize the key takeaways from each section in your own words.
  • Discuss the implications of cryptocurrency in the financial industry with a friend or colleague.
Review Coursera’s Blockchain Fundamentals
Review what you already know about Blockchain Fundamentals before starting the course.
Show steps
  • Read the introduction and chapters 1 and 2 of the book.
  • Complete the exercises at the end of each chapter.
  • Summarize the key concepts of each chapter in your own words.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Create a Summary of DeFi Terminology
Creating a summary of DeFi terminology will help familiarize you with key concepts and their meanings.
Show steps
  • Scan the provided materials for the module on 'Introduction'
  • Create a table or list that includes the term, a definition, and a brief example
Learn about DeFi Web 3.0 Adoption
Gaining a deeper understanding of Web 3.0 will aid in comprehending how DeFi is being implemented.
Show steps
  • Read materials from the course module on 'Decentralized Applications & Web 3.0'
  • Complete this short interactive tutorial: https://chainlink.dev/tour/web3-dapps-tutorial
Smart Contract Development Drills
Develop and refine your Smart Contract Development skills by practicing regularly.
Browse courses on Smart Contract Development
Show steps
  • Find online resources and platforms that provide smart contract development drills and exercises.
  • Set aside 2 hours each week to practice writing and deploying smart contracts.
  • Join a community or forum where you can share your work and receive feedback from others.
Practice Ethereum Smart Contract Development
Smart contracts are core enabling technologies in DeFi. Practicing development will strengthen your understanding of how they work.
Show steps
  • Follow this tutorial: https://docs.openzeppelin.com/learn/developing-smart-contracts
  • Complete these exercises: https://cryptomarketpool.com/ethereum-smart-contract-exercises/
Follow Ethereum DApp Development Tutorials
Expand your knowledge of Ethereum DApp Development by following comprehensive tutorials.
Show steps
  • Identify reputable sources and platforms that offer high-quality Ethereum DApp development tutorials.
  • Select a tutorial that aligns with your skill level and interests.
  • Follow the tutorial step-by-step, taking notes and asking questions as needed.
  • Build and deploy your own DApp based on what you've learned.

Career center

Learners who complete Decentralized Finance (DeFi) Essentials & Foundations will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Reading list

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Course image
Effort
4 weeks of study 2-3 hours/week
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
The State University of New York
Instructor
Bina Ramamurthy
Session
August 12, 2024 - September 16, 2024
Language
English
Good to know
Covers essential concepts of DeFi, including decentralized identity, smart contracts, and scaling solutions
Familiarizes learners with cryptocurrencies, tokens, and tokenization, which are fundamental to DeFi
Provides practical experience through decentralized applications (DApps) and hands-on exercises on Ethereum
Instructors Bina Ramamurthy are recognized experts in the DeFi field
Course content is highly relevant to those looking to understand and engage with DeFi
Share and help others discover this course.
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