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Decentralized Finance (DeFi) Essentials & Foundations

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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Read about what's good

what should give you pause

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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Reviews summary

Foundational introduction to decentralized finance

According to learners, this course serves as an excellent foundational introduction to Decentralized Finance (DeFi), offering clear explanations of core concepts like smart contracts, DApps, and blockchain technologies. Students appreciate its structured approach to understanding the essentials of the DeFi ecosystem. While effective for grasping fundamental principles, some note that its foundational scope means deeper dives or advanced practical applications may require further study in this rapidly evolving field.

Focuses on essentials, requiring further learning for advanced practical skills.

"While it covered the fundamentals well, I would need more advanced courses for practical application."

"I gained a good conceptual understanding, but less hands-on experience with live protocols."

"This course builds a strong base, but deeper dives into specific DeFi tools are needed later."

Includes hands-on exposure to an Ethereum test network for practical understanding.

"The introduction to the Ethereum test network was a valuable hands-on component for me."

"I appreciated the practical steps in managing decentralized identity on a test blockchain."

"It gave me a tangible feel for interacting within a blockchain environment, even if simulated."

Perfectly suited for those new to the decentralized finance landscape.

"As someone with no prior DeFi knowledge, I felt the course was perfectly paced and accessible."

"I appreciate how it broke down complex ideas, making it ideal for a complete newcomer."

"This course is a great starting point for anyone looking to enter the DeFi space."

Offers a clear and systematic overview of fundamental DeFi principles.

"I found the course incredibly helpful for understanding the basics of DeFi and blockchain."

"It provided me with a solid grounding in decentralized applications and Web 3.0."

"The explanations of smart contracts and tokens were very straightforward and easy to follow."

Given rapid changes in DeFi, some content may require periodic updates.

"I realize the DeFi space moves fast, so some examples might become dated quickly."

"It covers foundational concepts, which are generally stable, but specific trends evolve."

"I anticipate this course will need regular refreshing to stay fully current with the latest developments."

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

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Understanding the core concepts of crypto and blockchain will provide a strong foundation for the DeFi System.

Browse courses on Blockchain

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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

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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

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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

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Review what you already know about Blockchain Fundamentals before starting the course.

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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.

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Create a Summary of DeFi Terminology

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Creating a summary of DeFi terminology will help familiarize you with key concepts and their meanings.

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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

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Gaining a deeper understanding of Web 3.0 will aid in comprehending how DeFi is being implemented.

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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

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Develop and refine your Smart Contract Development skills by practicing regularly.

Browse courses on Smart Contract Development

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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

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Smart contracts are core enabling technologies in DeFi. Practicing development will strengthen your understanding of how they work.

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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

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Expand your knowledge of Ethereum DApp Development by following comprehensive tutorials.

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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

We've selected 50 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 Decentralized Finance (DeFi) Essentials & Foundations.

DeFi and the Future of Finance

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Offers a thorough exploration of the DeFi landscape and its implications for the future of finance. It includes case studies and analysis of various DeFi projects, making it highly relevant for understanding contemporary topics and deepening one's understanding. It is valuable for both students and professionals seeking a comprehensive view.

Decentralized Finance (DeFi) Essentials & Foundations

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What's inside

Syllabus

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Reviews summary

Foundational introduction to decentralized finance

Activities

Career center

Reading list

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