Question 1

What is deep learning, and why is it important?

Accepted Answer

Deep learning is a powerful application of machine learning (ML) algorithms modeled after biological systems of information processing called artificial neural networks (ANN). Machine learning is an artificial intelligence (AI) technique that allows computers to automatically learn from data without explicit programming, and deep learning harnesses multiple layers of interconnected neural networks to generate more sophisticated insights.

While this field of computer science is quite new, it is already being used in a growing range of important applications. Deep learning excels at automated image recognition, also known as computer vision, which is used for creating accurate facial recognition systems and safely driving autonomous vehicles. This approach is also used for speech recognition and natural language processing (NLP) applications, which allow for computers to interact with human users via voice commands.

Machine learning algorithms such as logistic regression are key to creating deep learning applications, along with commonly used programming languages such as Tensorflow and Python. These programming languages are generally preferred for teaching and learning in this field due to their flexibility and relative accessibility - an important priority given the relevance of deep learning to a wide range of professionals without a computer science background.

Question 2

Can I take free deep learning courses on Coursera?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You can start learning deep learning on Coursera for free in two ways:

Preview the first module of many deep learning courses at no cost. This includes video lessons, readings, graded assignments, and Coursera Coach (where available).
Start a 7-day free trial for Specializations or Coursera Plus. This gives you full access to all course content across eligible programs within the timeframe of your trial.

If you want to keep learning, earn a certificate in deep learning, or unlock full course access after the preview or trial, you can upgrade or apply for financial aid.

Question 3

Can I learn about deep learning by taking online courses on Coursera?

Accepted Answer

Certainly - in fact, Coursera is one of the best places to learn about deep learning. Through partnerships with deeplearning.ai and Stanford University, Coursera offers courses as well as Specializations taught by some of the pioneering thinkers and educators in this field. You can also learn via courses and Specializations from industry leaders such as Google Cloud and Intel, or get a professional certificate from IBM. Guided Projects also offer an opportunity to build skills in deep learning through hands-on tutorials led by experienced instructors, allowing you to learn with confidence.

Question 4

What skills or experience do I need to already have before learning deep learning?

Accepted Answer

The skills or experience you may need to have before studying deep learning, and which can help you better understand an advanced concept such as deep learning, can include sign language reading, music generation, and natural language processing (NLP), in addition to many others. If you have knowledge of Python 3 and understand the basic concepts of general machine-learning algorithms and deep learning, you may have the necessary skills to learn this specialization. You may also want to know about probability and statistics to study deep learning concepts. Basic math, such as algebra and calculus, is also an important prerequisite to deep learning because it relates to machine learning and data science. Also, if you have worked in the tech or artificial intelligence (AI) fields, you may have the necessary experience to study deep learning.

Question 5

What kind of person is best suited to learn deep learning?

Accepted Answer

The type of person who is best suited to study deep learning is someone comfortable working with statistics, programming, advanced calculus, advanced algebra, and engineering. Deep learning benefits someone passionate about working in the AI fields which can create types of deep learning networks that help machines perform human functions. A person best suited to learn about deep learning has a vested interest in understanding how the intelligence is built to run everything from driverless cars, mobile devices, stock trading systems, and robotic surgery equipment, for example. Deep learning benefits someone with a goal of working with systems such as computer vision, speech recognition, NLP, audio recognition bioinformatics systems, and medical image analysis.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Deep Learning

What is deep learning, and why is it important?‎

Can I take free deep learning courses on Coursera?‎

Can I learn about deep learning by taking online courses on Coursera?‎

What skills or experience do I need to already have before learning deep learning?‎

What kind of person is best suited to learn deep learning?‎

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