Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/internet-of-things-history
It’s hard to imagine a day without our smartphones. From work to staying connected with loved ones, capturing memories, and navigating new places, these devices are indispensable. But have you ever stopped to wonder how we arrived at this point? How did GPS sensors find their way into our pockets? Coursera’s ‘Internet of Things: How did we get here?’ course dives deep into this fascinating evolution, exploring the convergence of multiple disciplines that brought us the modern smartphone.
The course begins by tracing the very roots of telecommunication, starting with the birth of the telephone and the development of circuit-switched networks. It’s a compelling look at how our innate human desire to communicate fueled the rapid growth of these early networks.
From there, we transition to packet-switched networks, understanding the pivotal role digital networking played in transforming the telephone industry and paving the way for the exciting features we now take for granted. The course clearly articulates the differences between these two network types and the capabilities digital networking unlocked.
The ‘convergence’ truly begins to take shape in the ‘Computer Telephony’ module. This section highlights how computers and telephones started working together, creating significant opportunities for businesses. Features like caller ID and voicemail, which we now consider standard, emerged from this digital shift. However, it also touches upon the new challenges, such as the increased risk of privacy breaches.
Next, the course delves into ‘Wireless Technologies,’ marking the birth of the mobile phone. This module emphasizes how phone mobility revolutionized the market, shifting the focus from fixed locations to individuals and fundamentally changing the landscape for telecommunication companies.
The ‘Features and Apps’ module is where the smartphone truly comes alive. It celebrates the explosion of phone applications, transforming phones from simple communication devices into powerful tools for managing finances, entertainment, education, and even controlling our homes and cars. The endless possibilities of technology are on full display here, showcasing how ideas can be translated into functional apps.
Finally, the ‘Future Outlook’ module brings everything together, reflecting on the history of the internet and its advancements. It addresses the core question: what exactly is the Internet of Things? This course provides a solid historical foundation, making it an excellent starting point for anyone interested in understanding the origins and future of connected technology.
Overall, ‘Internet of Things: How did we get here?’ is a thoroughly engaging and informative course. It offers a clear, chronological narrative that demystifies the complex journey of the smartphone. I highly recommend it for anyone curious about the technological forces that have shaped our modern lives.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/internet-of-things-history