Computer (IT) Essentials
Course SyllabusMCTC Course: 780Prerequisites: noneCOURSE DESCRIPTION: Introduces basic computer hardware and operating systems, covering skills such as installing, building, upgrading, repairing, configuring, troubleshooting, optimizing, diagnosing and preventive maintenance with additional elements of soft skills and security. This course maps closely to the CompTIA A+ 220-701 Industry Certification Exam that validates the basic skills needed by any entry-level computer service technician.TO SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETE THIS COURSE:
Read through the curriculum, answer the questions on the study guide as you read. Dedicate 1-2 hours each week of time at home for reading and studying.
Take detailed notes of useful information discussed in class or found in curriculum.
Complete all labs, worksheets, and assignments.
Review the chapter powerpoint - be sure to take good notes.
As you review for the exam, don't try to cram, instead ask questions and try to understand why.
COURSE ASSIGNMENTS AND PROJECTS:
ASSIGNMENT: Course Syllabus (25pts)
Directions: Take your syllabus home, look over it with your parents/guardians, then bring it back signed.
MC Online - Using School Computers and the Internet (Lesson Plans)
CH 1 - Introduction to the Personal Computer (Lesson Plans)
Study Guide (217pts - OPTIONAL)
Worksheet - 1.1.2 Job Opportunities (25pts)
CH 2 - Safe Lab Procedures and Tool Use
Study Guide (68pts - REQUIRED)
Vocab Word Find Puzzle (17pts)
Labs - 2.3.4 Computer Disassembly (work w/ a partner & use a computer from under the tables, 50pts)
Worksheets - 2.2.2 Diagnostic Software (40pts)
CH 3 - Computer Assembly - Step by Step
Study Guide (46pts - OPTIONAL)
Labs - 3.9.2 Boot the Computer (50pts)
CH 4 - Basics of Preventative Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Study Guide (28pts - OPTIONAL)
ASSIGNMENT - Create a PPT to present at a teacher faculty meeting; the goal is to train teachers how to maintain their computers and troubleshoot problems that may occur. (100pts)
8-10 slides
Must include at least 8 pictures/images
Cite all sources (for both information and images)
CH 5 - Fundamental Operating Systems
Study Guide (170pts - OPTIONAL)
Vocab Crossword Puzzle (17pts)
Labs - 5.4.2 Install Windows XP (Use Virtual Box, 50pts) | 5.4.5 Create Accounts and Check for Updates (50pts)
5.5.1 Run Commands (50pts) | 5.6.2 Restore Points (50pts) | 5.6.3 Backup and Registry (50pts)
Worksheet - 5.4.9 FAT32 and NTFS (30pts)
CH 6 - Fundamental Laptops and Portable Devices
Study Guide (88pts)
Worksheets - 6.2.3 Laptop Docking Stations (45pts) | 6.3.4 Laptop Expansion (60pts) | 6.4.1 ACPI Standards (30pts)
CH 7 - Fundamental Printers and Scanners
Study Guide (80pts - REQUIRED)
CH 8 - Fundamental Networks
Study Guide (264pts - OPTIONAL)
AlphaBits - Converting Bits of Data (20pts)
Worksheets - 8.3.2 Identify IP Address Classes (25pts) | 8.10.3 Broadband (25pts)
CH 9 - Fundamental Security
Study Guide (81pts - OPTIONAL)
Hacking for Fun and Profit in China
Security Threats and Countermeasures
Worksheets - 9.2.1 Anti-virus Software (25pts)
CH 10 - Communication Skills
Study Guide (37pts - REQUIRED)
FINAL EXAM
Jeopardy Review for CH 1 - 10
Get Your CompTIA Strata CertificationBy completing the IT Essentials course, you are now ready to take your first certification exam. The CompTIA Strata - IT Technology exam is designed to show that a successful candidate has the knowledge to identify technology and computer hardware basics, compatibility issues and common errors, software installation and functions, security risks and prevention, as well as some Green IT and preventative maintenance practices.
The Strata – IT Technology certificate is ideal for individuals and students new to the IT job market as well as the increasing number of professionals changing careers to IT or technology-related fields.
Cost = $89.00
First, go to PearsonVUE, create an account, and schedule a day to take the first exam. The closest testing center is in Paducah, at the WKCTC campus.