Computer training for CompTIA A+ covers 4 different sectors - the requirement is exam passes in 2 specialities to be considered competent in A+. For t...
Computer training for CompTIA A+ covers 4 different sectors - the requirement is exam passes in 2 specialities to be considered competent in A+. For this reason,
most colleges limit their course to 2 of the 4 sectors. We think this is too much of a compromise - sure, you can pass an exam, but experience of all four will set you apart in the workplace, where you'll need a more comprehensive understanding. This is why you deserve training in the whole course.
Qualifying in CompTIA A+ on its own will allow you to repair and fix stand-alone PC's and MAC's; ones which are usually not part of a network - this generally applies to home use and small companies. Should you be thinking of looking after computer networks, you'll need to add Network+ to your training package. Taking this course as well will put you in a position to get a higher paid position. You may also want to consider the route to networking via Microsoft, in the form of MCP's, MCSA or the full MCSE.
A skilled and specialised advisor (in direct contrast to a salesman) will ask questions and seek to comprehend your current experience level and abilities. This is paramount to calculating your study start-point. Remember, if you've had any relevant previous certification, then you may be able to begin at a different level to a trainee with no history to speak of. Starting with a basic PC skills course first is often the best way to start into your computer program, but really depends on your level of familiarity with computers.
If you're like many of the students we talk to then you probably enjoy fairly practical work - a 'hands-on' personality type. Usually, the trial of reading reference books and manuals would be considered as a last resort, but it's not ideal. So look for on-screen interactive learning packages if you'd really rather not use books. Memory is vastly improved with an involvement of all our senses - learning experts have been saying this for as long as we can remember.
Study programs now come in disc format, where your computer becomes the centre of your learning. Video streaming means you will be able to see the instructor presenting exactly how something is done, and then have a go at it yourself - in a virtual lab environment. It makes sense to see some examples of the kind of training materials you'll be using before you purchase a course. You should expect videoed instructor demonstrations and audio-visual elements backed up by interactive lab's.
Choose disc based courseware (On CD or DVD) in all circumstances. You can then avoid all the difficulties of internet connection failure and issues with signal quality.
Students hopeful to build a career in IT often haven't a clue what route is best, let alone what area to get qualified in. How likely is it for us to understand what is involved in a particular job when we've never done it? Most likely we have never met anyone who is in that area at all. The key to answering this predicament in the best manner comes from a deep chat, covering a variety of topics:
* Your individual personality plus what interests you - what kind of work-oriented areas you love or hate.
* Is it your desire to reach a specific dream - for instance, becoming self-employed as quickly as possible?
* How highly do you rate salary - is it very important, or is enjoying your job further up on the scale of your priorities?
* Always think in-depth about the work demanded to gain all the necessary accreditation.
* You will need to take in what is different for the myriad of training options.
To be honest, you'll find the only real way to investigate these issues is through a chat with an experienced advisor that has a background in the IT industry (and specifically the commercial requirements.)
OK, why is it better to gain commercial certification as opposed to more traditional academic qualifications obtained from schools, colleges or universities? With 3 and 4 year academic degree costs becoming a tall order for many, plus the IT sector's general opinion that corporate based study most often has much more commercial relevance, we've seen a great increase in Adobe, Microsoft, CISCO and CompTIA accredited training courses that provide key skills to an employee at a fraction of the cost and time involved. Essentially, only that which is required is learned. It isn't quite as lean as that might sound, but the principle remains that students need to cover the precise skills needed (alongside some required background) - without trying to cram in every other area (as academia often does).
As long as an employer is aware what areas need to be serviced, then all they have to do is advertise for the exact skill-set required to meet that need. The syllabuses are set to meet an exact requirement and do not vary between trainers (in the way that degree courses can).
