Juan Israel Ortiz

Learning is a lifelong process, but mastering tough subjects can be a bit of a challenge. If you’re struggling with a subject, it can be tempting to give up and think that you’re just not cut out for it.

But what if I told you there were powerful mental tools to help you master tough subjects? With the “Learning How to Learn” course on Udemy, you can gain access to these tools and techniques, backed by scientific research.

I recently completed this course by Dr. Barbara Oakley and Dr. Terrence Sejnowski, and I’m excited to share my experience with you. Whether you’re a student looking to improve your grades, a professional seeking to upskill, or someone who simply wants to understand better how we learn, this course is for you.

The course covers four key learning strategies:

1. Focused and diffuse thinking,
2. Chunking,
3. Procrastination and
4. Memory

These are core concepts that form the foundation of effective learning. The first module, which covers focused and diffuse thinking, is particularly enlightening.

Focused thinking is when our brain is actively engaged in solving a particular problem. Diffuse thinking, on the other hand, is when our mind is relaxed and free-flowing. According to Dr. Oakley, we need to balance both types of thinking to maximize our learning potential. I found this particularly helpful in understanding the importance of taking breaks during study sessions.

The next module on chunking was an eye-opener. The idea is to break down complex concepts into smaller, manageable pieces. This makes it easier for our brains to process and retain information. The course explains various techniques for chunking, including creating analogies, visualizing information, and using acronyms.

The third module deals with procrastination – a topic that most of us can relate to. Dr. Oakley and Dr. Sejnowski explain why we tend to procrastinate and offer strategies to overcome it. One of the most effective strategies they recommend is the Pomodoro Technique. This involves working in 25-minute intervals, followed by a short break. It’s a great way to stay focused and avoid burnout.

The final module covers memory – arguably the most important component of learning. The course covers various memory techniques, including spaced repetition and mnemonics. These techniques are not only effective but also fun to learn and apply.

Mastering Tough Subjects

The “Learning How to Learn” course on Coursera is a must-take for anyone looking to improve their learning abilities. The course is engaging, informative, and backed by scientific research.

Whether you’re a student, professional, or lifelong learner, the techniques and strategies covered in this course are applicable to all aspects of life. I found myself using the tools learned in this course in my professional and personal life, and it has made a big difference. I highly recommend this course to anyone who wants to master tough subjects and become a more effective learner.

So go ahead and take the first step toward becoming a learning ninja!

Are you fascinated by cryptocurrencies and their increasing popularity? If so, you’re not alone.

Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Dogecoin have been making headlines in recent times, and their value has skyrocketed. The market capitalization of Bitcoin has surpassed $1 trillion, making it a major player in the financial world.

In this blog post, we’ll dive deeper into cryptocurrencies and shed some light on their popularity, value, and the factors that influence them. Whether you’re a seasoned cryptocurrency investor or just curious to learn more, this post is for you.

A Brief History of Cryptocurrencies

Cryptocurrencies emerged in 2009 with the creation of Bitcoin, the world’s first cryptocurrency. Since then, many other cryptocurrencies have been created, and the market has grown exponentially. Today, there are thousands of cryptocurrencies, each with its unique features, purposes, and values. The blockchain technology behind cryptocurrencies has revolutionized the way transactions are made. In essence, cryptocurrencies are decentralized digital assets that can be transferred without the need for intermediaries, like banks.

The Popularity of Cryptocurrencies

One of the reasons why cryptocurrencies have become so popular is their potential for high returns. Many investors have made vast fortunes by investing in popular cryptocurrencies, like Bitcoin and Ethereum. As the demand for cryptocurrencies increases, so does their value. Cryptocurrencies are also becoming more widely accepted as payment for goods and services, with some companies even allowing their employees to receive salaries in digital currencies.

The Factors that Influence Cryptocurrency Value

Like any other asset, cryptocurrency values are influenced by supply and demand and other factors. Some of the factors that affect cryptocurrency prices include regulatory changes, media coverage, government policies, economic conditions, and investor sentiment. For instance, when Elon Musk tweets about a particular cryptocurrency, its value often goes up or down dramatically. It’s essential to understand that cryptocurrencies are highly volatile and can be affected by even minor changes in the marketplace.

Cryptocurrencies and Institutional Investors

Institutional investors, including banks, hedge funds, and corporations, are increasingly investing in cryptocurrencies. For instance, PayPal and Square now allow their users to buy and sell cryptocurrencies on their platforms, and investment giants like BlackRock and Vanguard have started exploring cryptocurrency investments. The involvement of institutional investors has helped legitimize cryptocurrencies and made them more mainstream.

The Future of Cryptocurrencies

The future of cryptocurrencies remains uncertain, but many experts believe that they’re here to stay. In the coming years, we might see governments adopting digital currencies, more companies accepting cryptocurrencies as payment, and more investors pouring money into the crypto market. However, there are also concerns about the regulatory landscape and the risks associated with investing in cryptocurrencies.

The Rise of Cryptocurrencies

Cryptocurrencies have come a long way since their inception, and their popularity and value continue to rise. While they offer high returns, they’re also highly volatile and susceptible to market changes. As more institutions and investors enter the market, cryptocurrencies may become more mainstream.

However, it’s essential to understand the risks and do your research before investing in any digital asset. Whether you’re a cryptocurrency investor or not, it pays to stay informed about this ever-evolving market.

Digital payments have become an increasingly important part of our daily lives, especially in the past few years. The shift from traditional payment methods to digital payment methods has been accelerating at an unprecedented rate.

The COVID-19 pandemic has only further accelerated the move towards digital payments. In 2020, global digital payment transactions reached $6.7 trillion, reflecting the increasing adoption of mobile payments, e-commerce, and contactless payment methods.

In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at this phenomenon and explore the main factors driving the adoption of digital payments.

A major factor driving the adoption of digital payments is convenience. Digital payments offer more convenience than traditional payment methods since they are faster, more accessible, and more secure. Gone are the days when you needed to carry cash or wait in long queues to make a payment. Digital payments can be made from anywhere, at any time, using a smartphone or a computer. This convenience is especially important in today’s fast-paced world, where time is a valuable commodity.

Another factor that has contributed to the rise of digital payments is the increasing adoption of e-commerce. Online shopping has become increasingly popular, especially during the global pandemic when most people were confined to their homes. E-commerce has made it possible for people to shop from the comfort of their homes and to pay for their purchases using digital payments. As a result, digital payments have become an essential part of the e-commerce ecosystem.

Contactless payment methods have also played a significant role in the adoption of digital payments. Unlike traditional payment methods that require physical contact between payment instruments, contactless payment methods allow payments to be made without contact. Contactless payment methods include technologies such as Near Field Communication (NFC), QR codes, and Bluetooth. Customers can now pay for goods and services simply by tapping or scanning their smartphones or payment cards, making the process faster, safer, and more hygienic.

In addition to convenience, e-commerce, and contactless payment methods, digital payments also offer a wide range of benefits to businesses. Digital payments are faster and more secure than traditional payments, reducing the risk of fraud and counterfeiting. Digital payments also reduce the costs associated with cash handling, manual processing, and reconciliation, allowing businesses to cut down on operational costs and focus on more important aspects of their operations.

The Acceleration of Digital Payments

Digital payments have become an integral part of our daily lives. The world is moving towards a cashless society, and the acceleration of digital payments is a clear indication of this trend. The convenience of digital payments, the increasing adoption of e-commerce, contactless payment methods, and the benefits to businesses are some of the main factors driving the adoption of digital payments.

As we continue to embrace digital payments, we must ensure that we are aware of the risks involved and take appropriate steps to safeguard our digital identities and protect ourselves from cyber threats.

Going to college is meant to be a path to success, a better future, and a higher standard of living. However, with college tuition and the cost of living constantly on the rise, college degree holders are often leaving school with a significant financial burden – student loan debt.

This is a significant issue in many countries, most notably the United States, where outstanding student loan debt has surpassed $1.7 trillion. In this blog, we will dive deep into understanding the burden of student loan debt in the US and present examples.

Impact on Borrowers

Student loan debt is putting a huge burden on borrowers. With high-interest rates, compounded by the inability to repay due to the job market, it can take borrowers years or even decades to pay off their debt in full. As per the US Department of Education, the average student loan debt per borrower is currently around $37,000. This burden can translate to several negative effects on a person’s life, including mental health issues, financial instability, and even affecting their credit scores.

Effect on the Economy

The student loan debt in the US is also affecting the economy. High levels of debt can discourage young graduates from spending, in turn, slowing down the economy. When people are spending less, businesses earn less, resulting in reduced investments over time. Additionally, with inflated college tuition rates, students are keeping their distance from student loans and avoiding college altogether, resulting in a skills deficit in future generations.

Government Policies

There are some policies in place to help alleviate the burden of student loan debt in the US. The Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program, for example, offers complete debt forgiveness to public service employees after 120 qualifying payments. While beneficial for those who qualify, it’s important to note that only a small percentage of applicants typically make the cut. Further, these policies may be voted to change in the future.

Alternatives to Student Loans

An alternative to taking on student loans is seeking out alternative funding options. For example, some students choose to attend less expensive state colleges and universities or take advantage of scholarships and grants. Another emerging alternative is Income Share Agreements (ISAs). An ISA allows a student to pay for college tuition with a percentage of their income instead of taking out a loan with no interest, and a fixed repayment period.

How to Streamline Student Loan Repayment

To cope with student loan debt, borrowers must plan their path to repayment and consider different repayment options that best suit their situation. With the various repayment options, the consolidation of multiple loans, and refinancing, there’s a solution out there for every borrower. However, it’s important to note that professionals say that the first step in paying off student loans is not settling for the minimum payment as it lengthens the repayment period and increases the amount of interest paid overtime.

The Stats on Student Loan Debt

Student loan debt is an issue not just in the US but in other countries, as well. Borrowers must understand the impact of student loan debt not just on their lives but also on the economies they live in.

It’s important for governments to balance policies that incentivize college attendance with policies that incentivize individuals to repay their loans. With alternative funding options and plans for repayment, individuals can lessen the burden of student loan debt.