Cryptocurrency and Blockchain: An Introduction to Digital Currencies

  • 4.6
Approx. 4 hours to complete

Course Summary

Learn the basics of cryptocurrency and blockchain technology in this introductory course from Wharton School. Explore the history, current state, and potential future of digital currency.

Key Learning Points

  • Understand the fundamentals of blockchain technology and how it enables cryptocurrency
  • Explore the history and current state of cryptocurrency
  • Learn about the potential future of digital currency and its impact on industries

Related Topics for further study


Learning Outcomes

  • Gain a foundational understanding of blockchain technology and its role in enabling cryptocurrency
  • Develop awareness of the history and current state of cryptocurrency
  • Explore the potential future of digital currency and its impact on industries

Prerequisites or good to have knowledge before taking this course

  • Basic understanding of computer science
  • Familiarity with finance and economics

Course Difficulty Level

Beginner

Course Format

  • Online
  • Self-paced
  • Video lectures

Similar Courses

  • Blockchain and Cryptocurrency: What You Need to Know
  • Bitcoin and Cryptocurrency Technologies
  • Blockchain Fundamentals

Related Education Paths


Notable People in This Field

  • Andreas Antonopoulos
  • Vitalik Buterin

Related Books

Description

What is Cryptocurrency and how is it an innovative and effective method of currency? This course was designed for individuals and organizations who want to learn how to navigate investment in cryptocurrencies. Professors Jessica Wachter and Sarah Hammer will guide you through developing a framework for understanding both Cryptocurrency and Blockchain. You’ll learn how to define a currency, analyze the foundations of digital signatures and blockchain technology in cryptocurrency, and accurately assess the risks of cryptocurrency in a modern investment portfolio. By the end of this course, you’ll have a deep understanding of the realities of Cryptocurrency, the intricacies of Blockchain technology, and an effective strategy for incorporating Cryptocurrency into your investment plans. No prerequisites are required, although "Fintech: Foundations, Payments, and Regulations" from Wharton's Fintech Specialization is recommended.

Outline

  • Module 1: Introduction to Cryptocurrency
  • Introduction and Summary
  • Introduction to Cryptocurrency
  • Transacting in Bitcoin
  • Why Cryptocurrency?
  • Module 1 Lecture Slides
  • Module 2: Rules and Structure of Bitcoin
  • Introduction to Module 2
  • The Digital Signature
  • A Tamper Proof Ledger
  • What is Blockchain?
  • Examples
  • Distributed Consensus
  • Proof of Work
  • Mining and Currency Supply
  • Future Challenges
  • Module 2 Lecture Slides
  • Module 3: Cryptocurrency as an Asset Class
  • Cryptocurrency as an Asset Class
  • Risk and Return to Cryptocurrency
  • Review of Portfolio Theory
  • Asset Allocation with Cryptocurrency
  • Conclusion
  • Module 3 Lecture Slides
  • Module 4: The Blockchain Ecosystem
  • Module Introduction
  • What is an Ecosystem
  • Building the Blockchain
  • Crypto Finance
  • Business Use Cases
  • Blockchain in Gaming
  • Investing in Blockchain
  • Government and Regulation
  • Media and Advocacy
  • Creating the New Frontier of FinTech - Securitize
  • Creating the New Frontier of FinTech - Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc.
  • Module 4 Lecture Slides

Summary of User Reviews

Read reviews for Wharton Cryptocurrency and Blockchain: An Introduction to Digital Currencies course on Coursera. Users have praised this course for its detailed explanations and real-life examples. Overall, this course has received positive reviews from users who have found it informative and engaging.

Key Aspect Users Liked About This Course

The course is well-structured with clear and concise explanations of cryptocurrency and blockchain concepts

Pros from User Reviews

  • In-depth explanations of cryptocurrency and blockchain concepts
  • Real-life examples and case studies used to explain concepts
  • Engaging and interactive course content
  • Well-structured course with easy-to-follow modules
  • Course is suitable for beginners and those with some knowledge of cryptocurrency and blockchain

Cons from User Reviews

  • Some users found the course to be too basic and lacking in technical detail
  • Course may be too general for those with advanced knowledge of cryptocurrency and blockchain
  • Some users found the course to be too slow-paced
  • Lack of quizzes and assessments throughout the course
  • No interaction with the course instructors or other students
English
Available now
Approx. 4 hours to complete
Jessica Wachter, Sarah Hammer
University of Pennsylvania
Coursera

Instructor

Jessica Wachter

  • 4.6 Raiting
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