Becoming A Computer Trainer

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Becoming A Computer Trainer

• Computer Trainers Personal Training Guide.
• Chapter 2
• By Gail Perry
• Presented By Kevin S. Mulvihill
• October 9, 1998

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Todays Agenda

• Objective
• Education Requirements
• Developing Classroom Skills
• Approaches To Find Work
• Certification Programs
• Needs of the Independent Trainer
• Conclusion
• Question Period

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Introduction

• Computer Software training is considered a
  relatively new profession
• New career path
• There is a pressing need to fill this niche
• Formalised programs are only now beginning to
  surface

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Objectives

• To educate you with the various methods involved
  in becoming a computer software trainer.
• To educate you on the career path of a computer
  software trainer.

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Education Requirements

• Post secondary degree or diploma
• Able to teach a wide variety of skill levels
• Provide training in a variety of applications
• Background in major computer applications
• The ability to communicate

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Education continued

• Background in training adult learners
• Experience in using the software
• You must continue your education
• Seek out the latest information
• Keep aware of changes in software and hardware
• Learn from your students

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Developing Classroom Skills

• Develop your skills as you teach
• Learn through observation
• Question other instructors about techniques
• Talk to your students
• Role-playing
• Practice

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Approaches To Find Work

• Advertise
• Write articles
• Speak at luncheons
• Participate in trade shows
• Network yourself
• Recommendations and referrals
• Classified ads

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Approaches To Find Work

• Watch for opportunities
• Read the newspaper
• Cold calling
• Read trade journals
• Get certified

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Certification Programs

• Advantages of getting certified
• Refer to yourself as a certified trainer
• Carries credibility
• Use in your resume
• Discounts on other certified training programs
• Makes you attractive to future employers

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Popular Certification Programs

• Certified Lotus Professional
• Certified Novell Instructor
• Microsoft Certified Trainer
• Certified Technical Trainer

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Independent Trainer

• The option to become an independent trainer
  exists, since technology is moving at a much
  faster pace than the development of certification
  programs.
• This provides the enthusiastic independent
  trainer unlimited employment or contract
  opportunities.

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Needs of the Independent Trainer

• Skills
• Experience
• Classroom Facility
• Equipment

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Skills

• Maintain a current skill level
• Teach latest version of the software or hardware
• Capability of answering questions quickly and
  efficiently
• Use the software you teach (Lead by Example)

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Experience

• The more you train the more you learn
• Expertise increases with each class you teach
• Mould your presentation to fit the needs of your
  students

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Classroom Facility

• Find the right venue for the type of training you
  are offering
• Look for proper lighting
• Look at the following areas for training seminars
• Computer stores - Corporations
• Temporary agencies - Hotels
• Meeting halls -Auditoriums

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Equipment

• How to overcome obstacles such as a computerless
  training room
• Search through the yellow pages for computer
  dealers and renters
• Contact computer manufactures
• Purchase your own equipment

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Conclusion

• We have examined the various methods involved in
  becoming a trainer of computer software
• Certification or independent training
• Education needs
• Where to look for work
• Needs of the independent trainer
• Skills, Experience, Classroom Facility, and
  Equipment

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Questions ???