Information Technology Network Administration Skills Guide


*Algebra I	Trigonometry	Physics
*Algebra II	*Composition	Electronics
* Courses available in the Academic Achievement Center or High School Completion Center

This program requires close, careful technical reading. First-semester textbooks are written at an advanced college level. Tests are based on a combination of text, lectures, and instructors' handouts. In addition to their texts, students read software and hardware lab manuals for equipment operation and troubleshooting. On the job they must be able to read professional journals, new product literature, manuals for technical updating, textbooks, and on-line materials to self-teach difficult, ever-changing computer technology. View more information on reading skills in the Information Technology/Network Administration program. Speaking activities in the program are limited. Although some instructors might require students to explain a process to the class, most oral explanations are done on a one-to-one basis as part of lab work. Team interaction is stressed in many courses. On the job, technicians will interact with coworkers, and many will also have contact with clients. To facilitate troubleshooting, they must be able to ask appropriate questions, listen attentively, and explain clearly. They must also be able to interact positively with customers, often in stressful situations, and to communicate highly technical information in basic terms. They may work with clients of varying levels of technical expertise in person, over the phone, or on line. Students take Communication Skills (COM 703) or Composition I (ENG 105) in their second term. In their program coursework, they will write lab reports in which they document procedures and explain their conclusions. Technical accuracy is important in such work. Similar writing will be done on the job, as well as completing various forms and creating technical diagrams. Workers who move into management will also engage in business correspondence. View more information on language skills in the Information Technology/Network Administration program. Math is a crucial skill in this program. At least two years of high school algebra and trigonometry, taken recently, is recommended prior to program entry, as students will take Math – Electronics and Computer (ELT108) in their first term. Nondecimal bases will be used in Digital and Coomputer Electronics (NET 144) . The systematic, methodical problem solving techniques developed through the study of complex algebra problems directly enhance the students’ ability to solve complex computer, software and networking problems. On the job, technicians may use software which requires solving equations. View more information on math skills in the Information Technology/Network Administration program. Students must enter the program with an aptitude for computer hardware and software as well as strong general reasoning skills, which will be refined and applied in a technical context. Sequencing skills are used as students rigorously follow and generate step-by-step procedures. When troubleshooting, they must make accurate observations, trace causes, and use appropriate resources to solve problems, often within strict time constraints. Perseverance and dedication are the hallmarks of successful technicians. View more information on learning skills in the Information Technology/Network Administration program. Although keyboarding skills are not required for the program, they would be helpful, as would familiarity with Windows or UNIX/LINUX operating system basics. Familiarity with a word processing program would be beneficial for the Communication Skills course, which requires typed papers. Within the program, students take courses in computer programming. View more information on computer skills in the Information Technology/Network Administration program.
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Des Moines Area Community College
2006 South Ankeny Blvd.
Ankeny, Iowa 50021-3993
1-800-362-2127
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