Who should Enroll
- Students seeking career-oriented, entry-level computer hardware, software, and networking skills
- Students who want to gain fundamental computer hardware, software, and troubleshooting skills
- Students who want to prepare for the CompTIA A+ certification exams
Prerequisites
There are no prerequisites for this course
Course Description
The IT Essentials course covers the fundamentals of computer hardware and software and advanced concepts such as security, networking, and the responsibilities of an IT professional. It is designed for students who want to pursue careers in ICT and students who want to gain practical knowledge of how a computer works.
Students who complete this course will be able to describe the internal components of a computer, assemble a computer system, install an operating system, and troubleshoot using system tools and diagnostic software. Students will also be able to connect to the Internet and share resources in a networked environment. New topics in this version include mobile devices such as tablets and smartphones and client side virtualization. Expanded topics include security, networking, and troubleshooting.
Hands-on lab activities are essential elements that are integrated into the curriculum. The Virtual Laptop and Virtual Desktop are standalone tools that enable students to virtually disassemble and reassemble desktop and laptop computers. Both tools are designed to supplement classroom learning and provide an interactive “hands-on” experience in environments with limited networking equipment.
Packet Tracer activities are designed for use with Packet Tracer 5.3.x. The inclusion of Packet Tracer supports alignment with the new CompTIA A+ certification objectives without requiring academies to purchase extra networking equipment.
Course Outline
| Chapter | Objectives |
|---|---|
| 1. Introduction to the Personal Computer | Describe a personal computer system |
| 2. Lab Procedures and Tool Use | Demonstrate safe lab procedures and proper tool use |
| 3. Computer Assembly | Demonstrate safe lab procedures and proper tool use |
| 4. Overview of Preventive Maintenance and Troubleshooting | Explain the purpose of and basic rules of preventive maintenance and the troubleshooting process |
| 5. Operating Systems | Install, upgrade, navigate and troubleshoot various operating systems |
| 6. Networks | Describe, create and maintain a network |
| 7. Laptops | Describe how laptops are constructed, their basic configuration, maintenance, and troubleshooting |
| 8. Mobile Devices | Describe operating systems, basic configuration, maintenance, security and repair for mobile devices |
| 9. Printers | Demonstrate all procedures required for printers |
| 10. Security | Explain importance of security, describe procedures, and perform security measures |
| 11. The IT Professional | Describe the communication and related skills needed by an IT professional |
| 12. Advanced Troubleshooting | Perform advanced troubleshooting procedures on computers, operating systems, laptops, printers, network and security |
