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Alex Tapscott
and
Don Tapscott
This course discusses the limitations of the Internet for business and economic activity and explains how blockchain technology represents the way forward. After completing this course, you will be able to explain what blockchain is, how it works, and why it is revolutionary. You will learn key concepts such as mining, hashing, proof-of-work, public key cryptography, and the double-spend problem. You’ll be able to describe seven design principles for blockchain technology, and the challenges facing the people developing it. By the end of this course, you’ll learn how and why transacting on the blockchain can help us bring about a future that is faster, fairer, and more distributed than the world we inhabit today.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/s09qbh/introduction
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What's inside
Syllabus
The Second Era of the Internet
The Internet connects billions of people around the world, and is great for communicating and collaborating online. However, because it was built for moving and storing information, and not value, it has done little to change the way we do business. Now, for the first time in human history, two or more parties anywhere in the world can transact and do business peer to peer using the blockchain. In this module we introduce blockchain as “the trust protocol,” and explain how it represents the second era of the Internet. We describe how blockchain technology establishes trust—not through powerful intermediaries, but rather through collaboration, cryptography and clever code.
Read more
Syllabus
The Second Era of the Internet
The Internet connects billions of people around the world, and is great for communicating and collaborating online. However, because it was built for moving and storing information, and not value, it has done little to change the way we do business. Now, for the first time in human history, two or more parties anywhere in the world can transact and do business peer to peer using the blockchain. In this module we introduce blockchain as “the trust protocol,” and explain how it represents the second era of the Internet. We describe how blockchain technology establishes trust—not through powerful intermediaries, but rather through collaboration, cryptography and clever code.
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Explores the limitations of the Internet, which is standard in tech-related fields
Taught by recognized industry experts, Alex Tapscott and Don Tapscott
Examines blockchain technology, which is highly relevant in fintech
Provides a comprehensive study of the second era of the Internet
Covers key concepts such as mining, hashing, public key cryptography, and the double-spend problem
Instructs students on seven design principles for blockchain technology
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Reviews summary
Blockchain for business fundamentals
According to learners, this course provides a clear and accessible introduction to blockchain technology, particularly for those in business and global commerce. Students praise the well-structured content and the way complex concepts like smart contracts, NFTs, and CBDCs are explained in a non-technical manner. It offers a solid foundational understanding of how blockchain impacts business, helping professionals grasp its revolutionary potential. While excellent for a conceptual overview, some learners noted it lacks in-depth technical implementation details, making it ideal for strategists rather than developers.
Expert instructor with clear, well-paced delivery.
"The instructor's passion for the subject really shone through, making the lectures very engaging and easy to follow."
"I found the bite-sized modules perfect for my busy schedule, allowing me to learn effectively without feeling overwhelmed."
"Lectures were concise and to the point, avoiding unnecessary jargon and focusing on practical takeaways."
Content generally reflects current blockchain landscape.
"Despite how fast blockchain changes, the course material felt very relevant and covered recent developments like CBDCs."
"I was impressed by how current the examples and challenges discussed were, showing ongoing effort to keep it fresh."
"The course addresses current challenges facing blockchain implementation, which was very helpful for real-world context."
Broad coverage of key blockchain principles and types.
"I learned about everything from NFTs and CBDCs to public vs. private ledgers, giving me a solid understanding."
"The explanations of proof-of-work, public key cryptography, and the double-spend problem were very clear and fundamental."
"The course outlines seven design principles for blockchain, which helped structure my understanding of its potential."
Highly relevant for commerce, finance, and strategy.
"The modules on digital assets and smart contracts were directly applicable to understanding new business models and legal implications."
"I found the focus on how blockchain impacts global commerce and value transfer particularly insightful for my role in finance."
"This course helped me see blockchain not just as tech, but as a strategic tool for organizational transformation."
Excellent for beginners in blockchain for business.
"This course was incredibly helpful in demystifying blockchain; I came in with zero knowledge and now feel confident discussing its core concepts."
"The way the instructor breaks down complex ideas like mining and hashing into understandable chunks is remarkable."
"I appreciate how it makes blockchain accessible without getting bogged down in overly technical jargon, perfect for a non-developer."
Focuses on theory, less on coding or implementation.
"While excellent for an overview, I was hoping for more practical coding examples or deeper dive into smart contract development."
"This course is great for managers and strategists, but if you're looking to become a blockchain developer, this isn't it."
"It provided the 'what' and 'why' very well, but less of the 'how-to' from a technical standpoint."
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 Introduction to Blockchain for Global Commerce with these
activities:
Form a study group with classmates
Show steps
Encourages collaboration, peer support, and deeper understanding of course concepts.
Browse courses on
Collaboration
Show steps
-
Identify a group of classmates with shared interests and availability.
-
Establish regular meeting times and a communication platform.
-
Review course materials, discuss concepts, and solve problems together.
Follow online tutorials on blockchain development platforms
Show steps
Provides hands-on experience with blockchain development tools and frameworks.
Show steps
-
Identify reputable online courses or tutorials on blockchain development platforms.
-
Follow the tutorials step-by-step, building projects and experimenting with code.
-
Troubleshoot any issues and seek assistance from online forums or mentors.
Solve blockchain-related coding challenges
Show steps
Improves problem-solving skills and practical understanding of blockchain development.
Browse courses on
Smart Contract Development
Show steps
-
Find online coding challenges or tutorials focused on blockchain.
-
Attempt to solve the challenges, debugging and optimizing code.
-
Review solutions and compare approaches with other learners.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Write a blog post about a specific blockchain use case
Show steps
Reinforces understanding of blockchain concepts by applying them to real-world scenarios.
Browse courses on
Blockchain Applications
Show steps
-
Identify a specific blockchain use case in an industry of interest.
-
Research the technology and its implementation details.
-
Write a compelling blog post outlining the problem, solution, and benefits of the use case.
Contribute to an open-source blockchain project
Show steps
Enhances practical skills, fosters collaboration, and contributes to the blockchain ecosystem.
Browse courses on
Blockchain Development
Show steps
-
Identify an open-source blockchain project aligned with interests and skills.
-
Review the project's codebase and documentation.
-
Identify areas for improvement or contribution.
-
Submit pull requests or issue reports to contribute to the project.
Attend a blockchain workshop or conference
Show steps
Provides opportunities to engage with industry experts, learn about the latest advancements, and expand professional networks.
Browse courses on
Blockchain Technology
Show steps
-
Research and identify relevant blockchain workshops or conferences.
-
Register and attend the event.
-
Actively participate in sessions and discussions.
-
Connect with speakers, attendees, and potential mentors.
Read "Blockchain Revolution" by Don Tapscott and Alex Tapscott
Show steps
Provides a comprehensive understanding of blockchain technology and its potential to transform various industries and sectors.
View
Blockchain Revolution: How the Technology...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read the book thoroughly, taking notes on key concepts and examples.
-
Highlight important passages and mark sections for further research.
-
Summarize the main arguments and implications of blockchain technology.
Develop a blockchain-based solution to a real-world problem
Show steps
Challenges students to apply their knowledge and skills to solve practical problems using blockchain technology.
Browse courses on
Blockchain Applications
Show steps
-
Identify a real-world problem that can be addressed using blockchain.
-
Design a blockchain-based solution, including smart contracts and system architecture.
-
Develop and test the solution, ensuring security and efficiency.
-
Document the project and present the findings.
Form a study group with classmates
Show steps
Encourages collaboration, peer support, and deeper understanding of course concepts.
Browse courses on
Collaboration
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a group of classmates with shared interests and availability.
- Establish regular meeting times and a communication platform.
- Review course materials, discuss concepts, and solve problems together.
Follow online tutorials on blockchain development platforms
Show steps
Provides hands-on experience with blockchain development tools and frameworks.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify reputable online courses or tutorials on blockchain development platforms.
- Follow the tutorials step-by-step, building projects and experimenting with code.
- Troubleshoot any issues and seek assistance from online forums or mentors.
Solve blockchain-related coding challenges
Show steps
Improves problem-solving skills and practical understanding of blockchain development.
Browse courses on
Smart Contract Development
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find online coding challenges or tutorials focused on blockchain.
- Attempt to solve the challenges, debugging and optimizing code.
- Review solutions and compare approaches with other learners.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Write a blog post about a specific blockchain use case
Show steps
Reinforces understanding of blockchain concepts by applying them to real-world scenarios.
Browse courses on
Blockchain Applications
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a specific blockchain use case in an industry of interest.
- Research the technology and its implementation details.
- Write a compelling blog post outlining the problem, solution, and benefits of the use case.
Contribute to an open-source blockchain project
Show steps
Enhances practical skills, fosters collaboration, and contributes to the blockchain ecosystem.
Browse courses on
Blockchain Development
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify an open-source blockchain project aligned with interests and skills.
- Review the project's codebase and documentation.
- Identify areas for improvement or contribution.
- Submit pull requests or issue reports to contribute to the project.
Attend a blockchain workshop or conference
Show steps
Provides opportunities to engage with industry experts, learn about the latest advancements, and expand professional networks.
Browse courses on
Blockchain Technology
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research and identify relevant blockchain workshops or conferences.
- Register and attend the event.
- Actively participate in sessions and discussions.
- Connect with speakers, attendees, and potential mentors.
Read "Blockchain Revolution" by Don Tapscott and Alex Tapscott
Show steps
Provides a comprehensive understanding of blockchain technology and its potential to transform various industries and sectors.
View
Blockchain Revolution: How the Technology...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read the book thoroughly, taking notes on key concepts and examples.
- Highlight important passages and mark sections for further research.
- Summarize the main arguments and implications of blockchain technology.
Develop a blockchain-based solution to a real-world problem
Show steps
Challenges students to apply their knowledge and skills to solve practical problems using blockchain technology.
Browse courses on
Blockchain Applications
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a real-world problem that can be addressed using blockchain.
- Design a blockchain-based solution, including smart contracts and system architecture.
- Develop and test the solution, ensuring security and efficiency.
- Document the project and present the findings.
Career center
Learners who complete Introduction to Blockchain for Global Commerce will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Blockchain Developer
Blockchain Developer
As the demand for blockchain technology skyrockets, numerous industries are seeking qualified blockchain developers to design, build, and maintain blockchain-based systems. This course takes you through the concepts, principles, and challenges of blockchain technology, giving you a strong foundation in blockchain development. Whether you're a software developer looking to specialize or a professional interested in mastering blockchain, this course provides the essential knowledge and skills for a successful career as a Blockchain Developer.
Blockchain Engineer
Blockchain Engineer
A Blockchain Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and implementing blockchain solutions to solve real-world problems. With its comprehensive overview of blockchain technology, including its design principles and implementation challenges, this course equips you with the technical expertise required to excel in this field. By understanding how blockchain can address the limitations of the internet, you gain a competitive edge and contribute to advancements in the industry.
Blockchain Analyst
Blockchain Analyst
Blockchain Analysts play a crucial role in evaluating the potential and risks associated with blockchain technology. This course provides a deep understanding of blockchain's core concepts, challenges, and implications, allowing you to make informed decisions and advise organizations on how to leverage blockchain effectively. Whether you're interested in consulting, research, or investment analysis, this course gives you a solid foundation to succeed as a Blockchain Analyst.
Cryptocurrency Trader
Cryptocurrency Trader
Cryptocurrency Traders buy and sell digital currencies in the rapidly growing cryptocurrency market. This course provides a comprehensive understanding of blockchain technology, cryptoassets, and market dynamics, empowering you to make informed trading decisions and navigate the complexities of the cryptocurrency landscape. By learning about smart contracts and blockchain design principles, you gain a competitive advantage and increase your chances of success as a Cryptocurrency Trader.
Blockchain Consultant
Blockchain Consultant
Blockchain Consultants provide guidance and expertise to organizations looking to adopt or implement blockchain technology. This course equips you with a thorough understanding of blockchain's principles, challenges, and applications, enabling you to advise clients on how to leverage blockchain for their specific needs. By mastering the design principles and use cases discussed in this course, you can effectively communicate the benefits of blockchain and position yourself as a valuable asset to organizations seeking to stay ahead of the technological curve.
Data Scientist
Data Scientist
Data Scientists have a strong foundation in data analysis and machine learning, and blockchain technology can provide them with a powerful toolset for collecting and analyzing data. This course equips you with the knowledge of blockchain's design principles and its applications in data management. By understanding how blockchain can enhance data security, transparency, and immutability, you can expand your skillset, improve your data analysis capabilities, and drive better decision-making.
Financial Analyst
Financial Analyst
Financial Analysts evaluate the financial health and performance of companies and investments. With the advent of blockchain technology and its impact on the financial industry, understanding blockchain's principles and applications is becoming increasingly valuable. This course provides a comprehensive overview of blockchain's role in finance, enabling you to analyze and interpret financial data more effectively. By staying at the forefront of technological advancements, you can increase your competitiveness and gain an edge in the financial sector.
Supply Chain Manager
Supply Chain Manager
Blockchain technology is revolutionizing supply chain management by enhancing transparency, traceability, and efficiency. This course provides you with a deep understanding of blockchain's potential to transform supply chains. By learning about blockchain design principles and use cases in the supply chain industry, you can position yourself as a highly sought-after expert in this rapidly evolving field. The knowledge you gain will enable you to create and manage efficient, secure, and transparent supply chains that meet the demands of the digital age.
Product Manager
Product Manager
Product Managers are responsible for the development and management of products. With the increasing adoption of blockchain technology, Product Managers must understand its implications and applications in various industries. This course provides a thorough overview of blockchain's potential for product development, enabling you to create innovative products that leverage the benefits of blockchain. By staying ahead of the curve and embracing the transformative power of blockchain, you can differentiate your products, meet customer demands, and drive business success.
Marketing Manager
Marketing Manager
Marketing Managers are responsible for developing and executing marketing strategies to promote products and services. This course provides a comprehensive overview of blockchain's potential in marketing, enabling you to create innovative marketing campaigns that leverage the benefits of blockchain. By understanding blockchain design principles and use cases in marketing, you can stay ahead of the curve, engage with audiences in new ways, and drive business growth.
IT Architect
IT Architect
IT Architects design and implement technology solutions to meet business needs. This course provides a comprehensive overview of blockchain's implications and applications in IT architecture, enabling you to create and implement secure, scalable, and efficient IT infrastructures that leverage the benefits of blockchain. By understanding blockchain design principles and use cases in IT architecture, you can stay ahead of the curve, meet the demands of modern businesses, and drive technological innovation.
Software Engineer
Software Engineer
Software Engineers design, develop, and maintain software applications. This course provides a comprehensive overview of blockchain's implications and applications in software development, enabling you to create and implement secure, reliable, and efficient software solutions that leverage the benefits of blockchain. By understanding blockchain design principles and use cases in software development, you can stay ahead of the curve, meet the demands of modern businesses, and drive technological innovation.
Computer Scientist
Computer Scientist
Computer Scientists conduct research and develop new computing technologies. This course provides a comprehensive overview of blockchain's implications and applications in computer science, enabling you to contribute to the advancement of blockchain technology and its applications. By understanding blockchain design principles and use cases in computer science, you can stay ahead of the curve and drive groundbreaking research and innovation in the field.
Entrepreneur
Entrepreneur
Entrepreneurs create and manage their own businesses. This course provides a comprehensive overview of blockchain's potential for entrepreneurship, enabling you to develop and launch innovative businesses that leverage the benefits of blockchain. By understanding blockchain design principles and use cases in entrepreneurship, you can stay ahead of the curve, identify new business opportunities, and drive economic growth.
Investment Banker
Investment Banker
Investment Bankers provide financial advice and services to corporations and governments. This course provides a comprehensive overview of blockchain's implications and applications in investment banking, enabling you to understand and advise on the use of blockchain in capital raising, mergers and acquisitions, and other financial transactions. By understanding blockchain design principles and use cases in investment banking, you can stay ahead of the curve and drive innovation in the financial sector.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/s09qbh/introduction
Reading list
We've selected six 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
Introduction to Blockchain for Global Commerce.
Provides a comprehensive overview of blockchain technology and its potential impact on various industries. It is written by the instructors of the course, providing a strong foundation for understanding the course material.
Explores the business applications of blockchain technology, providing case studies and insights into how businesses can leverage blockchain to improve efficiency and innovation.
Save
Provides a comprehensive analysis of the economic and societal implications of blockchain technology. It valuable resource for those interested in understanding the broader impact of blockchain beyond its technical aspects.
Provides a comprehensive overview of cryptoassets, including cryptocurrencies, tokens, and stablecoins. It valuable resource for those interested in understanding the investment opportunities and risks associated with blockchain-based assets.
Provides a historical and cultural perspective on the development of blockchain technology. It valuable resource for those interested in understanding the origins and evolution of blockchain.
Provides a beginner-friendly introduction to blockchain technology, making it accessible to those with little to no prior knowledge. It valuable resource for those who want to gain a basic understanding of blockchain.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/s09qbh/introduction
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Effort
6 weeks of content, about 2 hours per week
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
INSEAD
Instructors
Alex Tapscott
Don Tapscott
Language
English
Transcripts
Español
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Deutsch
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فارسی
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پښتو
آذربایجان دیلی
This course belongs to a
collection
called
Web3 and Blockchain in Global Commerce. It's comprised of four courses:
- Web3 and Blockchain Leadership for Transformation
- Blockchain Opportunity Analysis for Global Commerce
- Web3 and Blockchain Transformations in Global Supply Chains
- Introduction to Blockchain for Global Commerce (viewing)
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