Lecturer: Mr. Tri Djoko Wahjono, Ir, M.Sc.
By: Veronica Ong (1701317660) of class 01PCT
Task: Chapter Review of Chapter 15 from the Textbook Discovering Computers.
1. What career
opportunities are available in the computer industry?
Job opportunities in the computer industry generally are
available in one or more of these
areas:
• General business and government
organizations and their IT departments
• Computer equipment field
• Computer software field
• Computer service and repair field
• Computer sales
• Computer education and training field
• IT consulting
Businesses and government organizations of all sizes use
computers. Without computers, very few organizations could operate in today’s
economy. Employees of all types, from office workers to shop foremen, use
business software such as word processing to prepare basic documents. Other
employees in the organization use computers for specialized activities such as
the management of company finances.
The computer equipment field consists of manufacturers and
distributors of computers and computer-related hardware such as magnetic and
optical drives, monitors, printers, and communications and networking devices.
In addition to the companies that make end-user equipment, thousands of
companies manufacture components used inside a computer such as chips, motherboards,
cables, and power supplies.
The computer software field consists of companies that
develop, manufacture, and support a wide range of software. Some software
companies specialize in a particular type of software such as business software
or utility programs. Other software companies, especially larger firms such as
Microsoft, produce and sell many types of software.
The computer service and repair field provides preventive
maintenance, component installation, and repair services to customers. Typical
job titles for workers in this field include service technician, computer
repairperson, repair technician, and computer technician — all of which perform
similar responsibilities.
Computer salespeople must possess a general understanding of
computers and a specific knowledge of the product they are selling. Strong
people skills are important, including a keen listening ability and superior
oral communications skills. Computer salespeople generally determine a buyer’s
needs and match these needs to the correct hardware and software. Effective
computer salespeople need a thorough understanding of available products. They
also must be able to discuss computers without using technical jargon.
The increased sophistication and complexity of today’s
computer products have opened extensive opportunities in computer-related
education and training. Schools, colleges, universities, and private companies
all need qualified educators. In fact, the high demand has led to a shortage of
qualified instructors at the college level as instructors increasingly move to
careers in private industry with the promise of higher pay.
Computer professionals sometimes decide to become IT
consultants after gaining experience in one or more computer-related areas,
such as programming, systems analysis and design, network configuration, or Web
development. An IT consultant, typically hired based on computer expertise,
provides computer services to his or her clients. Many companies hire an IT
consultant to fill in for an employee on an extended leave of absence. Large
enterprises often hire teams of consultants to offer advice about
technology-related concerns.
2. What are the
functions of jobs in an IT department?
An IT department provides career opportunities for people
with a variety of skills and talents. Usually, these jobs are divided into six main
areas. Jobs are listed in the area most often referenced, but also may fall in
other areas.
1. Management — directs the planning, research, development,
evaluation, and integration of technology.
2. System development and programming — analyzes, designs,
develops, and implements new information technology and maintains and improves
existing systems.
3. Technical services — evaluates and integrates new
technologies, administers the organization’s data resources, and supports the
centralized computer operating system and servers.
4. Operations — operates the centralized computer equipment
and administers the network, including both data and voice communications.
5. Training — teaches employees how to use components of the
information system or answers specific user questions.
6. Security — develops and enforces policies that are
designed to safeguard an organization’s data and information from unauthorized
users.
3. How are trade schools
different from colleges?
A trade school, also called a technical school, vocational
school, or career college, offers programs primarily in the areas of
programming, Web design and development, graphics design, hardware maintenance,
networking, personal computer support, and security. One advantage of attending
a trade school is time savings. Trade schools teach specific skills instead of
requiring students take a broad range of courses in the sciences and
humanities. For this reason, students often complete trade school programs in a
shorter time than college and university programs. At colleges and
universities, three broad disciplines produce the majority of entry-level
employees in the computer industry: computer information systems, computer
science, and computer engineering. Another program sometimes offered is
software engineering, whose definition varies depending on the school, which
may combine characteristics from each of these disciplines.
4. How are the
various college computer-related courses of study different?
A computer information systems (CIS), or information
technology (IT), curriculum teaches students technical knowledge and skills and
focuses on how to apply these skills. Types of computer courses required in a
typical CIS curriculum emphasize application programming and include courses in
programming, operating systems, systems analysis and design, databases,
networking, and Web development. CIS curricula typically do not require majors
to have a strong mathematics or physics background. In addition to academic
skills, CIS majors should possess excellent people skills, a keen understanding
of business operations and organizational behavior, the ability to work in
teams, and solid presentation skills.
A computer science (CS) curriculum focuses on the theory of
programming and operating systems. A computer science curriculum typically
emphasizes systems programming instead of application programming. CS computer
courses typically include subjects such as artificial intelligence, data
communications, data and file structures, operating systems, application and
systems programming, and systems analysis and design. Students also are
required to take higher-level mathematics, such as calculus, and physics
courses in the CS curriculum.
A computer engineering (CE) curriculum teaches students how
to design and develop the electronic components found in computers and
peripheral devices. Required computer courses include application and systems
programming, data and file structures, networks, and operating systems.
Students also are required to take several high-level mathematics courses, at
least two semesters of physics, and several electrical engineering courses in
the CE curriculum.
5. How can people
stay current with changing technology?
Staying aware of new products and services in the computer
industry is a challenging task because technology changes so rapidly. One way
to stay informed is to participate in professional growth and continuing
education activities such as workshops, seminars, conferences, conventions, and
trade shows. These types of events provide both general and specific
information about equipment, software, services, and issues affecting the
computer industry. Another way to keep up to date about industry trends and
technologies is to read one or more computer industry publications regularly or
visit news, blogs, wikis, or technical Web sites. Technology changes rapidly,
and companies that once published their articles strictly in print have now
turned to publishing only online. Magazines publishing their articles and
stories online include Computerworld, InfoWorld, PC Magazine, and PC World.
While some publications cover a wide range of topics, others are oriented
toward a particular subject such as communications, personal computers, or a specific
equipment manufacturer. Many of the more popular publications are available in
public or school libraries. While some Web sites allow visitors to read their
content for free, others charge a fee. Another source for information is Web
sites that discuss or share opinions, analysis, reviews, or news about
technology. Popular Web sites in this category include Slashdot, The Register,
AnandTech, and Tom’s Hardware Guide.
6. What are the
benefits of certification for employers, employees, and vendors?
• Career: A certification is one of the first
accomplishments an employer notices on a resume. It provides a benchmark, or a
means, to measure a person’s skills. It can set an individual apart from other
potential candidates who may be vying for a similar advancement or position.
• Professional: Certification is a personal achievement that
adds credibility among peers and employers. Certification also authorizes the
certificate holder to use the product’s official logo or symbol on personal
items, such as business cards and Web pages. As an additional bonus, some
certification training can be used for college credit. Although nothing
guarantees job security, certification helps give the IT professional an edge
over employees without certification.
• Salary: Numerous salary surveys show that certification
helps influence pay increases. Individuals with more than one area of
certification can command even higher salaries. Companies often pay a bonus as
an incentive for certification.
7. How can people
prepare for certification?
Training options are available to suit every learning style:
self-study, online training classes, instructor-led training, and Web
resources.
• Self-study: Flexible self-study programs help
professionals prepare for certification at their own pace and supplement other
training methods. Self-study requires high motivation and discipline but is the
least expensive option. Hundreds of books, videotapes, and computer-based
training programs on optical disc are available.
• Online training classes: Online training allows students
to set their own pace in an interactive environment and combines the
technological advantages of computer-based training with the connectivity of
the Internet or a company’s intranet. Online programs can cost about one-third
the price of the traditional instructor-led programs.
• Instructor-led training: Instructor-led training is
available in a variety of forms, including seminars, which typically are held
for several days during a week; boot camps, which immerse students in intensive
course work for up to two weeks; and academic style classes, which span a
period of several weeks or months. Some sponsors hold their own training
sessions and also authorize independent training centers.
• Web resources: The certification sponsor’s Web site
generally contains descriptions of the available certifications, with FAQs and
links to authorized training and testing centers. Many include detailed course
objectives, training guides, sample test questions, chat rooms, and discussion
groups. Most sell books and other training resources. Private individuals often
set up Web sites to offer their own views and tips on the testing process.
8. What are the
general areas of IT certification?
- Application Software Certifications : Although numerous
types of application software exist, several programs have achieved national
recognition for use as business and graphics tools. Most sponsors of
application software certifications have a partner training program and
encourage computer-training centers to be authorized training representatives.
- Operating System Certifications : Several options for
different knowledge levels are available to those seeking operating system
certifications. These certifications focus on particular skills of the user,
the operator, the system administrator, and the software engineer. If you are
interested in an occupation as an operating system administrator or software
engineer, you also may benefit from certifications in networking, hardware, and
the Internet. These additional certifications are linked closely to the
operating system and serve to broaden expertise in that area.
- Programmer/Developer Certifications : Various
certifications are available in the programmer/developer area. These
certifications usually are supported with training programs that prepare
applicants for the certification test. If you are interested in writing
application software, you also may benefit from certifications in networking
and Web design. These certifications are tied closely to programming and may
broaden employment opportunities.
- Hardware
Certifications : Hardware certifications vary in scope from a narrow focus with
an emphasis on the repair of a specific device to an integrated hardware
solution that addresses a company’s current and future computing needs.
Obtaining an advanced certification in hardware implies that you have achieved
a standard of competence in assessing a company’s hardware needs, and you can
implement solutions to help the company achieve its computing goals.
- Networking Certifications : Network expertise is acquired
through years of experience and training because so many variables exist for a
total network solution. Obtaining an advanced certification in networking
implies that you have achieved a standard of competence, enabling you to
address the complex issues that arise when planning, installing, managing, and
troubleshooting a network. Networking certification holders earn salary levels
from 5 to 30 percent more than those without certification.
- Digital Forensics Certifications : As discussed in Chapter
11, digital forensics is the discovery, collection, and analysis of evidence
found on computers and networks. According to the Investigative Services
Bureau, the testimonies of digital forensics certificate holders are considered
highly credible during computer crimes cases.
- Security Certifications : Security certifications measure
a candidate’s ability to identify and control security risks associated with
any event or action that could cause a loss of or damage to computer hardware,
software, data, information, or processing capability. While some security
certifications focus solely on network and Internet security, others include
measures to secure operating systems, application programs, and information
systems, as well as the physical facility and its people.
- Internet Certifications : Internet certifications are
demanding and require technical expertise in networking hardware and
configuration before enrollment in an Internet certification-sponsored training
program. These certifications include Web management, Web programming, and Web
development certifications.
- Database System Certifications : Supporting a large
database management system requires a professional staff. The various tasks the
staff performs form a core on which the database management certifications are
based. If you are interested in working with a database management system, you
also may benefit from certifications in hardware, the Internet, networking, and
programming.
9. What are some
specific IT certifications in each certification area?
- Application Software Certifications : Microsoft Certified
Application Specialist (MCAS), Microsoft Certified Application Professional
(MCAP), Microsoft Certified Desktop Support Technician (MCDST), Adobe Certified
Associate, Adobe Certified Expert (ACE), Adobe Certified Instructor (ACI), IBM
Certified Professional for Lotus Software.
- Operating System Certifications : IBM Certified
Specialist, Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP), Microsoft Certified
Technology Specialist (MCTS), Novell Certified Linux Professional (CLP), Red
Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE), Red Hat Certified Technician (RHCT), Sun
Certified System Administrator (SCSA).
- Programmer/Developer Certifications : Certified Software
Development Associate (CSDA), Certified Software Development Professional
(CSDP), IBM Certified Solution Developer, Microsoft Certified Professional
Developer (MCPD), Sun Certified Enterprise Architect (SCEA), Sun Certified Java
Developer (SCJD), Sun Certified Java Programmer (SCJP), Sun Certified Mobile
Application Developer (SCMAD).
- Hardware
Certifications : A+, Dell Certified Systems Expert, IBM eServer Certified
Specialist
- Networking Certifications : Novell Certified Administrator
(NCA), Novell Certified Engineer (NCE), Cisco Certified Network Associate
(CCNA), Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP), Cisco Certified
Internetwork Expert (CCIE), Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator (MCSA),
Network+, Sun Certified Network Administrator (SCNA).
- Digital Forensics Certifications : Certified Computer
Examiner (CCE), Certified Computer Forensics Examiner, Certified Electronic
Evidence Collection Specialist (CEECS), Certified Information Forensics
Investigator (CIFI).
- Security Certifications : Certified Information Systems
Security Professional (CISSP), Security Certified Network Architect (SCNA),
Security Certified Network Professional (SCNP), Security Certified Network
Specialist (SCNS), Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP).
- Internet Certifications : Certified Internet Webmaster
(CIW), Certified Web Professional (CWP).
- Database System Certifications : IBM Certified Solutions
Expert – DB2, IBM Certified Solutions Expert – Informix, Microsoft Certified IT
Professional (MCITP), Oracle Certified Professional (OCP), Sybase Certified
Professional.
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