Course Syllabus

IT Essentials

I.   Catalog Description

Students learn the functionality of hardware and software components as well as

suggested best practices in maintenance and safety issues. The students, through hands

on activities and labs, will learn to assemble and configure a computer, install operating

systems and software, and troubleshoot hardware and software problems. In addition, an

introduction to networking is included with this course. This course helps students

prepare for CompTIA's A+ certification.

II.   Duration of Class

This course has been designed as a 70-hour course. However, this course addresses

some very advanced topics. It may be beneficial to have either a longer delivery model or

pre-selection, or screening, of students.

III.   Advisory Prerequisite

None

IV.   Course Objectives

Upon successful completion of this course, the student will receive a Certificate of

Completion for IT Essentials I: PC Hardware and Software. The students' acquired

competencies include the following:

•  Build, configure, upgrade, and maintain a personal computer system

•  Diagnose and resolve problems of a personal computer system

•   Install and configure various computer peripheral devices

•  Setup, configure, and maintain a local area network

•  Resolve network connectivity problems on a local area network using a

systematic troubleshooting approach

•   Install, configure, upgrade, and maintain Microsoft Windows operating systems

•  Diagnose and resolve problems using Microsoft Windows system tools

•  Understand the specialized functions of the network server and the conditions

required for a secure network server room

•  Utilize relevant workplace safety and environmental standards during computer

maintenance

•   Effectively utilize a customer-oriented approach to resolve user problems

•  Provide computer hardware and software support based upon a set of standard

and systematic diagnostic principles

V.   Minimum Student Materials

                                                      •  Journal notebook

•   Floppy diskettes

VI.   Minimum Instructional Facilities

•  Computers with access to a LAN

• Hand tools

•   Operating system CD and utility software

•  Classroom computer lab with ESD mats

VII.   Course Content

•  Computer hardware basics

•   Operating system basics and installation

•  Graphical and command line operating system basics

•  Computer system maintenance planning techniques

                                                            •  Computer assembly and troubleshooting

•   Installation and troubleshooting of peripherals

•  Ergonomic needs and considerations

•   Career opportunities and intern possibilities

VIII.   Method of Instruction

•  Cisco web-based course materials

•   Hands-on lecture

•   Instructor-led and assisted labs

•  Demonstrations

•   Field trips

•  Guest speakers

IX.   Sample Method of Evaluation

A grading system should be established by the instructor and implemented uniformly.

Student grades should be based on demonstrated proficiency in subject matter

determined by multiple measurements for evaluation. This would include chapter tests,

labs, skills demonstration, and a final exam.