NUNAVUT. BUSINESS AND LEADERSHIP CAREERS Computer Systems Tech PROGRAM REPORT. 050 Computer Systems Technician Program

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1 NUNAVUT BUSINESS AND LEADERSHIP CAREERS Computer Systems Tech PROGRAM REPORT 050 Computer Systems Technician Program Start Term: No Specified Start Date End Term: No Specified End Date Program Status: Approved Action Type: N/A Change Type: N/A Discontinued: No Latest Version: Yes 1

2 Program Details Computer Systems Technician Program Start Term: No Specified Start Date End Term: No Specified End Date Program Details Code 050 Title Computer Systems Technician Program Start Term No Specified Start Date End Term No Specified End Date Total Credits Institution Nunavut Faculty Business and Leadership Careers Department Computer Systems Tech General Information Eligible for RPL Yes Description The Computer Systems Technician (CST) Program provides students with abilities and expertise to support the use of computers and networks. Graduates are able to work individually or as part of a team to implement and maintain information technology solutions that correspond to the day-to-day requirements of individuals and organizations. From repairing desktop computer to monitoring network operations and beyond, graduates work in a board range of employment setting in a variety of sectors in both large and small organizations. The program focuses on technical aspects of commonly used components and troubleshooting techniques for computer hardware,operating systems, networking technologies, system administration, and a suite of related support and application software packages. It also supports students in developing their communication and administration skills, including the ability to work in teams and utilize project management and customer service techniques. Requirements and subject matter found in certifications such as Comp TIA's (Computer Technology Industry Association) A+ and network+, Link+, and Microsoft Certified professional (MCP) are used in this program. Although actual certification is not part of this program, students will be prepared to write related certification exam. The CST program has dedicated lab, which has been updated to provide 2

3 each with a spacious workstation. Students in good standing will complete a 4 week work practicum each year. Inuit Qaujimaningit The CST Program integrates the Guiding Principles of Inuit Qaujimajuqtuqangit and recognizes the value of collaborative learning environments unique to Nunavut. Students in the program will develop the required competencies to meet industry standards for entry level positions in the IT field. Presentation of program content will draw heavily on the Inuit concept of Inuuqatigiitsiarniq: Respecting others work and developing healthy work relationships that respect fellow workers. This instructional strategy will help to prepare the students to work collaboratively with other professionals toward a common end result. Pilimmaksarniq: development of skills through practice, effort, action and patience. Instructors will seek to balance instructional methods through the use of learning labs and project based learning assignments, in addition to conventional lectures. Instructors will also promote an environment of inclusive participation through open dialogue and continuous feedback throughout the program drawing on the Inuit concept of Tunnganarniq. This instructional strategy draws upon a collaborative approach among students by forming working relationships with each other to collectively solve problems as they strive toward a common goal. Career Opportunities Graduates may find employment as technical support specialist for PC and networks in a wide variety of corporate environments in the industrial, governmental and service sectors. positions may also include; system administration and maintenance for LAN/WAN (Local Area Networks/Wide Area Network), Internet/Intranet and Unix environments; hardware/software sales representatives; customer service support representatives; technical support specialist; network installation and implementation specialist. Program Learning Outcomes Program Vocational Learning Outcomes - Analyze and resolve information technology problems through the application of systematic approaches and diagnostic tools. - Support the implementation and administration of computer systems. - Support the implementation and administration of networking solutions. - Install, configure, troubleshooting, maintain, and upgrade components of computer systems. - Install, configure, troubleshooting, maintain, and upgrade components of networks. - Use a variety of scripting tools and languages to automate routine tasks. - Follow, monitor, and document data storage procedures designed to ensure the integrity of information. - Apply knowledge of security issues in the implementation of information technology solutions. - Provide efficient and effective technical support to clients in a manner that promotes safe computing practices and reduces the risk of the issue recurring. 3

4 - Conform to workplace expectations found in information technology (IT) environments. - Contribute to the successful completion of the project applying the project management principles in use. Program Objectives - To prepare graduates for employment in the IT field. - To give graduates knowledge and experience in the subject areas of the program. - To provide tools by which graduates can make sound decisions in the IT industry. - To prepare individuals to continue their professional growth within the IT field. - To provide an educational base for graduated who wish to continue their education. Program Delivery Model Classroom Field Based Admission Requirements Program Eligibility Applicants wishing to apply to this program must: - Have a Nunavut High School diploma (general or advanced), ABE Math 150 and ABE English 150, or equivalent. - Be 17 years of age or older. - Must submit a letter detailing their interest in the program and reasons for applying. - Must submit a recent resume detailing work history supported by a letter of reference from an employer or community organization to be considered under the NAC's Prior Learning Assessment Policy. - May challenge courses needed for program entry if they have significant work experience. 4

5 Applicant Assessment Applications will be assessed based on submission of the above eligibility criteria. Preference may be given to those who have a keen interest in detailed technical work and can articulate their future plans. Telephone interviews will be conducted with potential candidates who meet the admission requirements. Applicants should understand that IT professional work requires intense concentration and long hours. Program Admission Applicants meeting the program eligibility criteria will be admitted into the Computer Systems Technician Program, subject to space limitations and available resources. Selection Process Application Criminal Record Check English Assessment Testing Letter of Intent Math Assessment Testing Reference Letter(s) Transcripts Practicum or Work Experience 4 week (150 hours) practicum per year. Credential Certificate No Length of Program Degree No Length of Program Diploma Yes Length of Program 6 semester ROA 5

6 No Length of Program ROP No Length of Program 160 days Graduation Requirements Graduation Requirements Diploma, Computer Systems Technician (63 cr) Students are required to successfully complete all courses and field practice assignments. A cumulative grade point average of 60% is required for graduation. Graduation Eligibility Graduation Eligibility Mandatory Mandatory Core Courses: One Inuktitut language course: or English 1-48 hrs - 3 credits Microcomputer Operating Systems - 96 hrs - 6 credits PC Systems Technology hrs - 6 credits 6

7 Microsoft Office Software 1-45 hrs - 3 credits Technical & Customer Service - 48 hrs - 3 credits Network Essentials - 96 hrs - 6 credits Microsoft Office Software 2-45 hrs - 3 credits Math for Information technology - 60 hrs - 3 credits Practicum Preparation - 16 hrs - no credits (pass/fail) Practicum hrs - no credits (pass/fail) Year Two Core Courses: PC Trouble Shooting hrs - 6 credits Local Area Networks - 80 hrs - 3 credits Introduction to Networking Routing - 80 hrs - 3 credits Network Security - 80 hrs - 3 credits Network Services & Support - 64 hrs - 3 credtis Wide Area Network Administration - 80 hrs - 3 credtis Ethics - 45 hrs - 3 credit Practicum II hrs - no credits (pass/fail) Current Trends in IT - 45 hrs - 3 credits 7

8 Electives Electives None Course Descriptions Course Descriptions Conversational Inuktitut 45 hrs -3 credits This introductory Inuktitut course is designed for students wishing to learn Inuktitut as a second language. The course is made up of three modules. Students will work in small groups of no more than eight. Short periods will be set aside for large group discussions and explanation of grammatical points and questions raised by students Inuktitut Literacy hrs-3 credits This is a continuation of Literacy 110, providing more practice in the syllabic segment of the Inuit Cultural Institute s Dual Orthography, plus coverage of some advanced points. The course reviews the standard syllabic symbols and their combinations. There is extra material introduced to cover conventions used in other dialects. The course includes practice in reading and comprehension of more advanced texts on Inuit creation stories, and sections on creative writing Microcomputer Operating Systems - 96 Hours - 6 Credits This course introduces students to the basic DOS (Disk Operating System) and progresses to an advanced level of understanding of current operating systems. Students learn to use some of the core basic and advanced commands to perform common system set-up and management tasks. Typical tasks covered include, but are not limited to: installing and configuring operating system, installing device drivers, managing memory, troubleshooting the boot process, and customizing the operating environment PC Systems Technology Hours - 6 Credits this course focuses on personal computer (PC) hardware and technologies. Course content includes the basics on how computers work, how they are put together, technical concepts and terminology, along with the historical evolution and current trend in PC technology. Students learn to recognize and describe the basic architecture and operation of motherboards, system buses, input/output (I/O) devices, system buses, memory systems, central processing unit architecture and capabilities, and associated chip-sets. Topics explored include PC customized and peripherals, performance issues and tweaking, system cooling, RAID (Redundant Arrays of Independent Disk), SCSI (Small Computer System Interface), efficient system architecture, emerging technologies and information storage systems. practical exercises focus on installing, configuring and troubleshooting internal and peripherals PC technology. 8

9 Network Essentials - 96 Hours - 6 Credits This course introduces the foundation knowledge of computer networking and LAN/WAN (Local Area Network/Wide Area Network) communication. Students are introduced to the terminology and concepts related to the implementation and operation of computer networks. Topics include basic network design, layered communications models, IP (Internet Protocol) addressing and sub netting, and industry standards for network media and protocols English 1-48 Hours - 3 Credits This course helps you to develop writing, speaking and preliminary research skills. Topics include the writing process and basic writing skills, routine correspondence, short reports, summarizing information, overcoming speech anxiety, planning and delivering an oral presentation, locating and documenting information, working effectively in a team, and assessing your own communication skills. These valuable skills will help you be successful in your other courses and in the workplace Microsoft Office Software I: Word and PowerPoint - 45 Hours - 3 Credits this course is divided into three sections. the first provides a broad-based introduction to word processing in general and Microsoft Word in particular. Upon successful completion of this section, the student will have the knowledge required for the MOUS (Microsoft Office User Specialist) exam in Microsoft Word. The second section enables students to create professional presentations using Microsoft PowerPoint. Upon successful completion of this section, the student will have the knowledge required for the MOUS (Microsoft Office User Specialist) exam in Microsoft PowerPoint. The final section introduces students to Microsoft Internet Explorer software. Specifically students will learn how to search for information efficiently, browse the Web, and create a simple Web page Technical and Customer Service - 48 Hours - 3 Credits This course teaches the students the required skills to deal with customers appropriately, with diplomacy and tact, while managing and helping them with their problems. Proper communication skills and understanding the user's requirements are emphasized through discussed and role-playing in a simulated support environment. Students are shown how to design and implement a basic help desk operation. Student will learn descriptive statistics and the use of basic software tools to present help desk data summaries and trends Microsoft Office Software II - Excel and Outlook - 45 Hours - 3 Credits This course is divided into two sections. The first provides a broad-based introduction to spreadsheets, using Microsoft Excel as the tool. Upon successful completion of this section, the student will have the knowledge required for the MOUS (Microsoft Office User Specialist) exam in Microsoft outlook, a personal desktop organizer. Upon successful completion of this section, the student will have the knowledge required for the MOUS (Microsoft Office User Specialist) exam in Microsoft outlook Math for Information Technology - 60 Hours - 3 Credits 9

10 This course provides a review of mathematical fundamentals including: measurement and basic geometry: basic operation with numbers, algebraic expressions and algebraic fractions: formulas: factoring: solving linear, fractional and simple quadratic equations; exponent and radicals; graphs and their applications; systems of linear equations; introduction to trigonometry of right angle triangles PC Troubleshooting Hours - 6 Credits This course places emphasis on problem analysis methodology and techniques for finding, identifying, and correcting hardware, operating system and software problems. Practical experience is gained by using common industry troubleshooting tools, such as POST (Power-On Self Test) cards and utility software, to resolve common problems. labs are designed to test students troubleshooting skills using a series of computer system with preset problem Introduction to Network Routing - 80 Hours - 3 Credits This course focuses on the theory of moving data between Local Area Network (LAN). Topics include different routed and routing protocols and the study of RIP (Routing Information Protocol) and IGRP (Interior Gateway Routing Protocol) as examples of distance-vector protocols as well as traffic filtering using Access Control List. This course furthers the students' knowledge of LANs to encompass inter-networks and the issue of moving data between network segments Ethics - 45 Hours - 3 Credit Some would say that there is a hole in moral ozone and it s getting bigger. This course examines and addresses the ethical challenges we face every day. It will assist student to clarify their own values and understanding how these values impact the course of their lives. The course will provide students with a number of tools and decision making models to deal with personal and professional ethical dilemmas Practicum Preparation - 16 Hours - no credits (pass/fail) This course is intended to prepare students to find employment in their field of study. Resume preparation, cover letters, job search techniques, and interview skills will be covered. Students will learn the proper etiquette, conduct, and attitude necessary to be successful in their chosen career Practicum I Hours - No credits (pass/fail) Qualified students complete a work term, and submit a written report which documents the location of employment and the duties performed Practicum II Hours - no credits (pass/fail) Qualified students complete a work term, and submit a written report which documents the location of employment and the duties performed. 10

11 Network Security - 80 Hours - 3 Credits This course focuses on the fundamentals of information technology security. Students are introduced to the goals of computer security; threats security and security counter measures. Several operating systems will be examined to their security features. The use of Firewalls, Secure Socket Layer technologies, IP (Internet Protocol) Masquerading and other methods of protection will be explored Network Service and Support - 64 Hours - 3 Credits This course covers the knowledge and skills required for supporting common network services in an Enterprise Network environment. Students will learn basic network management and tools, as well as the installation, configuration and troubleshooting of typical user services such as mail, Internet access, news services, shared resources and drives Local Area Networks - 80 Hours - 3 Credits This course focuses on the capabilities of Microsoft's operating systems in a network environment including Windows 2000/XP Professional and the Windows 2000/2003 Server Family. Topics explored are automated installation, the Microsoft DNS (Domain Naming System) implementation, domain controllers using Active Directory File Systems (DFS). The students will install and configure Windows 2000/XP Professional and Windows 2000/2003 Server with Active Directory and Practice typical system administration tasks. Prerequisite(s) CST Wide-Area Network Administration - 80 Hours - 3 Credits This course extends the students knowledge of networking gained from previous courses to include Wide Area Networking connections. Topics covered include scaling IP (Internet Protocol) addresses using Network Address Translation (NAT) and Port Address Translation (PAT), implementing Dynamic Host configuration Protocol (DHCP) on routers, WAN (Wide Area Network) technologies and standard. Point-to-Point protocol, Integrated Services Digital network Management concepts. Laboratory exercises focus on the technical aspects of the technologies discussed using routers to simulate real WAN technology setups. Students are brought into the realm of networking in complex environments, including the integration of enterprise routing across the Internet Current Trends in IT - 45 Hours - 3 Credits This course focuses on new emerging trends in the Information Technology industry. In any two year IT program, many new developments will have occurred during the time period that the program has run. By being offered in the final semester this course serves to bridge this gap and provide students with the most up to date knowledge and skills possible. There should be no 'hard set' objectives for this course but rather the details of the curriculum should emerge as the final semester of the program progresses. This should be accomplished through instructor and student input as well as from guest speakers currently working in various IT departments around Nunavut. Document of Recognition: Diploma, Computer Systems Technician (63 CR) 11

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