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

What kinds of careers can I pursue with a background in deep learning?

Accepted Answer

A familiarity with the capabilities and development process for deep learning applications can be an asset in a growing number of careers. For example, the use of deep learning is being explored in healthcare for automatic reading of radiology images, as well as searching for patterns in genes and pharmaceutical interactions that can aid in the discovery of new types of medicines. In many fields, even a basic understanding of deep learning can help professionals identify new potential applications of this powerful technology.

Those with a deeper expertise in deep learning may become computer research scientists in this field, responsible for inventing new algorithms and finding new applications for these techniques. Given the wide range of uses for deep learning, computer scientists in this field are in high demand for jobs at private companies as well as government agencies and research universities. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, computer research scientists earned a median annual salary of $122,840 as of 2019, and these jobs are expected to grow much faster than average.

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.

Question 6

How do I know if deep learning is right for me?

Accepted Answer

Deep learning may be right for you if you want to break into AI. The specialization may benefit you if you are a machine learning researcher or practitioner who is seeking to learn the next generation of machine learning, and you want to develop practical skills in the popular deep learning framework TensorFlow. Deep learning is one of the most highly sought-after skills in tech, and mastering it may lead you to many opportunities in the field of AI. It may also benefit you if you want to learn how to build neural networks and how to lead successful machine learning projects, and if you have a passion for learning about convolutional networks, RNNs, LSTM, Adam, Dropout, BatchNorm, Xavier/He initialization, and how to master concepts in Python and TensorFlow.

Question 7

What are the benefits of taking an online Deep Learning course?

Accepted Answer

Online Deep Learning courses offer a convenient and flexible way to enhance your knowledge or learn new Deep Learning skills. Choose from a wide range of Deep Learning courses offered by top universities and industry leaders tailored to various skill levels.

Question 8

Are there free deep learning courses or certifications available on Coursera?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Coursera offers a variety of free courses across many topics, including deep learning. While you can access most course materials for free by auditing the courses, this does not include graded assignments or a completion certificate. For those looking to obtain a certificate to showcase their learning or enhance their professional profile, Coursera provides the option to purchase the course. Additionally, Coursera offers free trials or financial aid to learners who qualify, making certifications more accessible to everyone.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Deep Learning

What is deep learning, and why is it important?‎

What kinds of careers can I pursue with a background in deep learning?‎

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?‎

How do I know if deep learning is right for me?‎

What are the benefits of taking an online Deep Learning course?‎

Are there free deep learning courses or certifications available on Coursera?‎

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