This course is a beginners guide to cryptocurrencis; what are they, what is their history, how do they work, what are their advantages, disadvantages and risks? How can I profit from cryptos? What are the benefits and pitfalls and how can I employ risk management when mining, trading or investing? Links to further quality information will be provided and there are no prerequisite requirements. **Please note your email address will be shared with the Tutor**
Your Tutor is Dennis Keillor
Dennis Keillor BAppSci (Physics), DipEd has been teaching at WEA since 2007.
As a ‘Cycologist’ Dennis has been a successful financial market forecaster, trader and educator since 1997.
As a ‘Fizzacist’ Dennis has been producing homemade brew since Adam was a boy!
Course Description
Curious about Bitcoin and the ever-expanding world of cryptocurrencies, but not sure where to start?
This course is a beginner-friendly introduction to the foundational concepts behind Bitcoin and other digital currencies.
You'll explore what cryptocurrencies are, where they came from, how they work, and how they're mined, traded, and stored. Along the way, you'll gain insights into the risks and benefits of engaging with crypto markets—whether as an investor, trader, or curious observer—and learn practical strategies for managing risk and avoiding scams.
Through a clear, lecture-style format with plenty of opportunities for questions and discussion, the course demystifies the often-confusing world of digital currencies.
Topics covered include crypto wallets, transaction mechanics, market volatility, regulations and taxes, trading platforms, and margin trading. You’ll also be guided to further quality resources so you can continue your learning journey beyond the classroom.
No prior experience or technical knowledge is required, and notes will be provided.
Course Structure
This course is delivered in a structured lecture format, broken down into key topic areas that build foundational knowledge while allowing for real-time questions and interactive discussion.
- Introduction – What is money? How has it evolved? Why does cryptocurrency matter?
- Crypto Basics – Key concepts: blocks, wallets, mining, supply, volatility, and risk
- Bitcoin in Focus – How it works, its history, advantages, and limitations
- Transactions and Security – How to buy, store, and spend Bitcoin securely
- Mining Explained – The role of miners and how the network stays secure
- Markets and Trading – Exchanges, altcoins, trading strategies, and avoiding scams
- Tax and Regulation – Understand how crypto is treated under Australian law
- Further Learning – Resources, tools, and communities for ongoing exploration
Course Learning Outcomes
By the end of the course, students will be able to:
- By the end of this course, students will be able to:
- Understand what cryptocurrencies are and how they function
- Explain how Bitcoin transactions and mining work
- Recognise the risks and benefits of using or investing in cryptocurrency
- Set up and manage a secure crypto wallet
- Navigate exchanges and understand the basics of trading Bitcoin and altcoins
- Identify common scams and learn how to avoid them
- Gain insight into how cryptocurrencies are taxed and regulated in Australia
- Continue their learning through trusted resources and tools
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