VET Certificate III in Information Technology

1
VET Certificate III in Information Technology

• Kevork Krozian
• VET Cert III in Information Technology Forest
  Hill College
• k.krozian_at_fhc.vic.edu.au

2
Session Objectives

• Setting up Vet IT Certificate III in your school
  
• Describe course structure and content
• Sharing successful strategies
• Where to exchange ongoing support

3
Training Package version 3

• For 2004 , the VET in IT Certificate III course
  was delivered using the Training Package version
  3
• Version 3 of the TP first available in April 2002
• http//www.atpl.net.au lists the current version
  and the link to Print Version Modification
  History will indicate changes made.
• A review is underway for a new version of the
  Training Package with consultations currently in
  progress for 2005

4
Delivery Mode

• Schools can either
• Delivery as a self standing Registered Training
  Organisation (RTO)
• Or
• Deliver under the auspices of a parent RTO such
  as a TAFE

5
Resourcing

• Range of choices offered to students will depend
  on
• Appropriate level of hardware, software and
  networking capability
• Appropriate teaching material
• Staff expertise
• Availability of labs and expendable equipment
  for students to carry out practical tasks,
  assessment and simulate workplace environments

6
VCE and VET

• For 2005
• Minimum 16 units required to complete VCE
• Most do 20 24 units
• A minimum of 3 Units of English required
• A minimum of three 3 - 4 units required
• Up to 13 units can come from VET
• VET IT Cert III contributes 4 units (two at 1-2
  and two at 3 - 4 )
• VET IT Cert III has a study score contributing to
  the Enter ( SACs 66.7 , Exam 33.3 )
• At most three VET 3 - 4 sequences can contribute
  to the Enter score

7
Course Summary for Units 3 and 4

• All Students

ICAITD128A Create user and technical
documentationICAITS020C Install and optimise
system softwareICAITS031B Provide advice to
clientsICAITU019C Migrate to new
technologyICAITU126B Use advanced features of
computer applications
Certificate Specific
General
Software Apps
Network Admin
ICAITU018C Develop Macros and templates for
clients using standard productsICAITS032A
Provide Network Systems Administration
ICAITS032A Provide Network Systems
AdministrationICAITS034A Determine and Action
Network problem
ICAITU018C Develop Macros and templates for
clients using standard products
8
School Assessment Units 3 - 4

• Comprised of 3 SACs during the year
• Total contribution 66 for the years score
• Usually covered multiple modules in each SAC
• At least 2 different assessment modes to be used
  from Work Performance, Work Project, Product and
  Portfolio
• No individual SAC to contribute more than 50
  towards school assessment score.

9
Assessment Plan - Software Apps
Portfolio 1 Product Portfolio 2
ICAITD128A Create User and Technical Documentation 20   ?  
ICAITU126A Use Advanced Features of Computer Applications 40     ?
ICAITU018B Develop Macros and Templates for Clients 60  ?  
ICAITU019B Migrate to New Technology 20 ?    
ICAITS031B Provide Advice to Clients 40     ?
ICAITS020B Install and Optimise System Software 20 ?    
Allocation of nominal hours Allocation of nominal hours 60 60 80
10
What do students need to do?

• Complete 3 assessment tasks using at least 2 of 4
  assessment modes
• Assessment must conform with Module Critical
  Aspect of Evidence, Software and Hardware Guide

11
Vet Units 3-4 Modules in detail

• Each module is made up of elements and
  performance criteria
• Assessment has to be conducted within guidelines
• Whilst there is some flexibility in assessment,
  there are also some compulsory components

12
ICAITU126B Use advanced features of computer
applications
Element Performance Criteria
1. Manipulate Data 1.Advanced features of application are employed in the preparation and presentation of data 2. Data is efficiently transferred between applications 3. Objects, macros and templates are created and employed for routine activities 4. Shortcuts and features are regularly employed for increased productivity 5. Related data files are linked as required
2. Access and use support resources 1. Routine problems are solved with the use of support resources 2. Online help is accessed and used to overcome difficulties with applications 3. Manuals and training booklets are used to solve advanced problems 4. Problems are analysed and eliminated according to results 5. Technical support is accessed and trouble shooting results and alert messages are supplied to technical support
3. Configure the computing environment 1. Performance of PC is enhanced 2. Environment is configured according to user/ organisational requirements 3. PC environment is customised and optimised
13
ICAITU126B Use advanced features of computer
applications
Module Elements in Detail Module Elements in Detail
Identify apps compatible with MS Word. Import Excel worksheets Import Graphs/Charts Import data from Access Databases Import a subset of data from an external database Create templates, modify templates Create macros, modify macros. Local vs Global Macros. Modify Toolbars VBA Code, object, property , method Autonew, Autoexec macros. Data entry forms, controls on forms. Import Data into Excel Protect Cells from changes. Lock and Unlock Editing Macros. Absolute and relative references in cells Input boxes, forms, controls (combo boxes ) and interaction with cells Filtering Data Relational Databases Forms, Subforms, menu forms Reports , subreports, Dynamic selection criteria Sorting and Grouping Summary Data Customise and configure computing environment Optimise system, performance, colours, shortcuts, folders, date/time Multi Tasking. Foreground, background, active applications Disk optimisation scandisk, defrag, read ahead optimisation Virtual memory, system resources, swap file
14
Module Critical aspect of Evidence, Software and
Hardware Guide ICAITU126B Use advanced features
of computer applications

• Assessment must confirm the ability to utilise
  computer applications to their full capacity
  employing all advanced features and import /
  export capacities for efficiency and productivity
  purposes
• Variables may include but are not limited to
  commercial software applications organisational
  specific software word processing, spreadsheet,
  database, graphic, communication packages and
  presentation functionalities
• May include presentation applications contained
  in
• Microsoft Office, Lotus Suite, Claris Works,
  Star Office or other similar applications
• Variables may include but are not limited to
• personal computers and
• networked systems
• Conclusion Based on interpretation, it can cover
  a wide or narrow range of knowledge/skills and
  anything in between !!!

15
ICAITD128A Create user and technical documentation
Element Performance Criteria
1. Determine Documentation Standards and Requirements 1. Standards for documentation are determined from overall project documentation standards and industry standards 2. Documentation types and design templates are identified and agreed with higher authorities 3. Authors are informed of the standards and any technical resources/materials/manuals to support documentation.
2. Produce Technical Software Documentation 1. Technical documentation is recorded in line with project documentation standards 2. All supporting technical information such as the architecture and detailed project plan are clearly and accurately referenced 3. Modification and maintenance requirements are clearly documented to documentation standards 4. Documentation is understandable to programmers as a stand alone document.
3. Create Client User Documentation 1. Developed softwares operational procedures are clearly and coherently documented in non-technical jargon 2. Documentation is aligned with client requirements to support ease of use 3. Documentation is written in clear, coherent and concise plain English and logically sequenced and cross referenced
4. Obtain endorsement/sign-off 1. Developed documentation is reviewed by target audience 2. Changes are made according to target audience feedback 3. Documentation is submitted for higher authority sign off
16
ICAITD128A Create user and technical documentation
Module Elements in Detail Module Elements in Detail
Identify Types of Documentation ( User and Technical ) Purpose of Documentation Processes for production of Documentation Standards for a Documentation Project (project, organisation, industry) Appropriate Design Templates Tools for Developing Documentation TECHNICAL DOCUMENTATION Different types Index, version control Reference system for tech documentation Document the maintenance requirements USER DOCUMENTATION Different types Index, version control Reference system for user documentation Write clear, coherent, precise, user doc. Characteristics of printed user doc. Characteristics of online user doc. Client User Doc Management Structures ( Strategic, Tactical, Operational) Role of user in initiating an information system development request Determining user requirements Identify and analyse user requirements Document user requirements
17
Module Critical aspect of Evidence, Software and
Hardware Guide ICAITD128A Create user and
technical documentation

• Can include, but are not restricted to technical
  manuals, user manuals, policy and procedure
  manuals, training materials in either hard copy,
  electronic copy, on-line help, Internet/intranet.
• Assessment must confirm the ability to clearly
  and coherently document client and technical
  information in a manner which is accepted by the
  target audience as applicable and useable
• Variables for Documentation and Reporting can
  involve but not be limited to audit trails,
  naming standards, version control
• Documentation standards can include, but are not
  restricted to policy relating to sign-off,
  storage, distribution, revision
• Can include ISO/AS standards, organisational
  standards, project standards.
• San include tools for documenting eg. word
  processing packages, desktop publishing packages.

18
ICAITS020C Install and optimise system software
Element Performance Criteria
1. Determine Operating System Requirements 1. Operating system requirements are determined and documented 2. Requirements of clients are evaluated in line with organisation guidelines, corporate, licensing arrangements and budget
2. Obtain operating system 1. Vendors are contacted and technical specifications are obtained 2. Recommendations are documented and provided to appropriate personnel 3. Licensing, hardware and security requirements are determined and followed
3. Install and optimise operating System 1. Operating system is installed, configured and tested in accordance with installation procedures and organisational requirements. 2. System to meet organisational requirements is optimised. 3. System is documented according to organisational requirements 4. Installation is conducted with minimal disruption to clients.
4. Provide instruction to meet new software requirements 1. One to one instruction to the client is provided as required. 2. Client evaluation and feedback are obtained to ensure requirements of client are met.
19
ICAITS020C Install and optimise system software
Module Elements in Detail
Establishing software and hardware needs for system software required Acquiring software and hardware and installing system software such as Windows 98, 2000, NT, XP or Linux Finding solutions , workarounds, patches, fixes Documenting all work , use of screen captures Help Desks and how to operate the service, prioritise Handling of customer enquiries, complaints, frustration, anger Escalating problems where required
20
Module Critical aspect of Evidence, Software and
Hardware Guide ICAITS020C Install and optimise
system software

• Variables may include but are not limited to
  operating systems include stand alone PC systems
  and network operating systems commercial
  software applications organisational specific
  software word processing, spreadsheet, database,
  graphic, mail, communication packages and
  presentation functionalities licensing options
• Assessment must confirm the ability to install
  and improve system performance with minimum
  disruption to clients

21
ICAITU019C Migrate to new technology
Element Performance Criteria
1. Apply existing knowledge and Techniques to new technology 1. Existing knowledge and techniques are applied to explore new technology 2. New technology acquired by the organisation is used with minimum disruption 3. Functions and features of new technology available to the organisation are readily employed to meet organisational requirements
2. Apply advanced functions of the Technology to solve organisational problems 1. Specialised features of technology, software and hardware are utilised to solve organisational problems 2. Advanced features and functions are used in a manner that exploits the full capacity of the new technology 3. Sources of information are accessed to determine the full range of benefits of new Technology
3. Apply new functions of upgraded technology 1. Specialised features of upgraded technology are used to solve organisational problems 2. Upgraded technology is used for enhanced productivity and efficiency
22
ICAITU019C Migrate to new technology
Module Elements in Detail
Use new or upgrade old technology for the benefit of an organisation New business opportunities Increase existing business opportunities Increase efficiency Reduce cost Gain a competitive / technical edge Improve management Improve work practices User Resistance to change, inability to use new system Technology problems User problems Training, types Monitor performance Maximise benefits
23
Sample evidence guide for module ICAITU019C
Migrate to new technology

• Competency must confirm the ability to transfer
  the application of existing skills and knowledge
  to new technology.
• Advanced knowledge of generic applications is
  demonstrated on a minimum of three software
  applications
• Hardware is limited to commercially available
  products. Hardware variables may include but are
  not limited to single and multi-client platforms
• Software is to be limited to commercially
  available products. Specialised features are
  those identified in packages.
• Software variables may include but are not
  limited to data files obtained from Email,
  floppy disk, common drives commercial software
  applications word processing, spreadsheet,
  database, graphic, mail, communication packages
  and presentation functionalities format of data,
  ie. ASCII, application specific

24
ICAITS031B Provide advice to clients
Element Performance Criteria
1. Analyse client support issues 1. Logged requests are answered in accordance with organisation guidelines 2. Client support issues are investigated and documented in accordance with organisation guidelines 3. Previous logs are checked for similar problem by same or other client
2. Provide Advice on Software 1. Client requirements are confirmed 2. Advice is determined and provided or client is referred for further technical assistance 3. Advice is provided to client to overcome software problem in line with organisation guidelines 4. Manuals and help documentation are provided to client 5. Group or one to one instruction is provided, as required 6. Upgrade requirements or new software requirements are documented and recommendations are referred to supervisor/management
3. Provide advice on hardware 1. Client requirements are obtained from documentation 2. Advice is provided to client to overcome hardware problem in line with organisationguidelines 3. Manuals and help documentation are provided to client 4. Group or one to one instruction is provided, as required 5. Further requirements are documented, such as new equipment requirements, recommendations are referred to supervisor/management
25
ICAITS031B Provide advice to clients ( continued )
Element Performance Criteria
4. Provide Advice on Network 1. Client requirements are obtained from documentation 2. Advice and support are provided to client to overcome network problem in line with organisation guidelines 3. Manuals and help documentation are provided to client 4. Group or one to one instruction is provided, as required 5. Further requirements are documented and recommendations are referred to supervisor/management
5. Obtain client feedback 1. Client evaluation and feedback are obtained to ensure client requirements are met 2. Function is performed by client unassisted according to instruction
26
ICAITS031B Provide advice to clients
Module Elements in Detail Module Elements in Detail
Help Desk Types of Problems Call taking procedures Dealing with clients Documentation Identify the problem Background Information Obtain info ( phone, email, online ) Visit the site Document the problem Escalate the problem Find Solutions Printed sources Local online Internet Helpdesk and technical sources Workarounds Document Improve Customer Service Analyse help desk database Benchmarking Proactive Feedback teamwork
27
Module Critical aspect of Evidence, Software and
Hardware Guide ICAITS031B Provide advice to
clients

• Assessment must confirm the ability to convey
  comprehensive technical information to clients in
  a clear,concise and coherent manner.
• Assessment must confirm the ability to access
  technical manuals and help documentation and
  conveying this information to the client in a
  concise and jargon free manner. Information
  conveyed enhances client efficiency

28
Certificate Specific Modules

• ICAITU018C Develop Macros and templates for
  clients using standard products
• ICAITS032B Provide Network Systems Administration
• ICAITS034B Determine and Action Network problem

29
ICAITU018C Develop Macros and templates for
clients using standard products
Element Performance Criteria
1. Determine Macro or Template Requirement 1. Client requirements are determined in line with organisational guidelines 2. Macro/template specifications are developed and clients needs are confirmed
2. Develop Macro or Template for Client 1. Macro/template specifications are developed using standard package in line with organisation guidelines 2. Client feedback is obtained 3. Amendments are made as required for client
3. Provide Client Support for Macro or Template 1. Support/instruction requirements are determined and documented 2. Client is instructed in use of macro/template 3. Client documentation is provided to help desk for future support
30
ICAITU018C Develop Macros and templates for
clients using standard products
Module Elements in Detail Module Elements in Detail
As for Use Advanced Features of Software Applications Development and Maintenance of a product or solution Support client by use of technical documentation such as System flowchart DFD Data Dictionary Maintenance History log book Structured English System Requirements User Interface Establish user needs Document user requirements Training Level of Training needed Different types of training needed Sources of training Evaluate effectiveness of training
31
Module Critical aspect of Evidence, Software and
Hardware Guide ICAITU018C Develop Macros and
templates for clients using standard products

• Competency must be demonstrated in the
  development of a variety of macros and templates
  using at least three industry recognised
  application packages. Competency must be
  demonstrated in the development of a
  specification for macros and templates
• Variables may include but are not limited to
  commercial software applications organisational
  specific software word processing, spreadsheet,
  database, graphic, communication packages and
  presentation functionalities
• May include presentation applications contained
  in Microsoft Office, Lotus Suite, Claris Works,
  Star Office or other similar applications

32
ICAITS032B Provide Network Systems Administration
Element Performance Criteria
1. Provide client access and security 1. Log-ons, passwords and applications file access are provided, and documented in line with organisational security requirements 2. Records of client accounts are evaluated 3. System integrity and security are maintained 4. Virus protection is used in line with organisation recommendations
2. Input into and disseminate disaster recovery plan 1. Input is provided into disaster recovery plan 2. Disaster recovery plan is provided to clients as required
3. Monitor network performance 1. Diagnostic tests are performed 2. Diagnostic information is analysed and acted on 3. Software usage is monitored 4. Illegal software is deleted from the system 5. Hardware response time is monitored 6. Methods for improving efficiency are determined and acted on according to organisation guidelines
33
ICAITS032B Provide Network Systems Administration
Module Elements in Detail Module Elements in Detail
System Security Passwords Backups UPS Fire Extinguishers Air conditioner Humidity and temperature control Firewall Encryption Auditing Documentation of items above Evaluate threats Risk assessment table (fire, flood, power surge) Develop components list Recovery from disaster Provide disaster recovery plans to clients Standardise monitor Proactive Training Design Network monitoring Bytes/packets sent/received Network utilisation CPU utilisation NIC Error stats CRC errors Alignment errors Runt packets due to partial collisions
34
Module Critical aspect of Evidence, Software and
Hardware Guide ICAITS032B Provide Network
Systems Administration

• Assessment must confirm competence in sustaining
  the operation of the network through maintenance
  of network integrity and the performing of
  diagnostic tests.
• Assessment must also confirm competency in
  contributing to the formulation of a disaster
  recovery plan and providing the client with an
  optimised network that complies with
  organisational guidelines.
• Hardware includes peer-to-peer networks, personal
  computers and client servers
• Software includes any software licensed by the
  organisation

35
ICAITS034B Determine and Action Network problem
Element Performance Criteria
1. Determine client problem 1. Logged call from help desk is received 2. Client problem is determined, further information from client is gained and documented as required by organisation guidelines
2. Determine whether maintenance is covered by policy 1. Maintenance and technical support agreements are determined 2. Organisational policy regarding maintenance is followed
3. Carry out maintenance 1. Diagnostic tests are conducted as required 2. Maintenance is completed in line with organisation guidelines 3. New components are obtained 4. Components are stored or disposed of in accordance with organisation guidelines
4. Prepare maintenance report 1. Maintenance report is prepared in line with organisation guidelines 2. Maintenance requirements to appropriate area are escalated as required
36
Module Critical aspect of Evidence, Software and
Hardware Guide ICAITS034B Determine and Action
Network problem

• Assessment must confirm the ability to document
  network related problems, determine the required
  resources, solve the client problem or escalate
  it according to organisational guidelines.
• The network is to be maintained with minimal
  disruption to clients.
• Repairs can include but not be limited to
  replacing disk drives repositioning network
  cards installing disk drives installing and
  reconfiguring printer replacing I/O devices
  reconfiguring network

37
References

• ICAITD128A Create user and technical
  documentation
• ICAITS020C Install and optimise system
  software
• ICAITS031B Provide advice to clients
• ICAITU126B Use advanced features of computer
  applications
• ICAITS032B Provide Network Systems
  Administration
• ICAITS034B Determine and Action Network
  problem
• Essentials of IT and Network Administration -ISBN
  086458 132 7
• Essentials of IT General Vol 1 - ISBN 086458
  133 5
• Essentials of IT Software Applications ISBN
  086458 113 0
• ICAITU018C Develop Macros and templates for
  clients using standard products
• Essentials of IT General Vol 1 - ISBN 086458
  133 5
• Essentials of IT Software Applications ISBN
  086458 113 0
• ICAITU019C Migrate to new technology
• Essentials of Information Technology ISBN 086458
  112 2

38
Where to get more help

• VET Mailing list
• http//www.fhc.vic.edu.au/lists
• VET web site http//www.fhc.vic.edu.au/vet-it
• Reference Texts from Tertiary Press Tel 9213
  6605
• Barnes Publishing for Student Workbooks
• Quality Assessment Tasks - sample SACs, sample
  Exams
• (www.edassist.com.au Tel [phone])
• http//www.vcaa.vic.edu.au for all official VET
  documents
• VET unit at VCAA
• mackenzie.margaret.a_at_edumail.vic.gov.au
• o'shannessy.susan.z_at_edumail.vic.gov.au