Wednesday, December 31, 2008

IT Training Providers - How Can I Compare Them?

By Scott Edwards

If you're searching for IT training providers, it's logical that you are looking for some options of who to train with. So let's put in writing a few statements to check we're on the same wavelength, and then look at the choices available:

* Your new training is to get a job.

* You're in search of quality training that's thorough and doesn't miss anything out so you'll feel capable in your new job.

* You appreciate that the qualifications you get must be able to get you short-listed for interview.

* Ideally you would like a provider who can offer you the right advice, quality training, decent support, and whose charges are reasonable.

So what are your options to choose from? If you're looking for qualifications to make you employable in the IT Industry, we recommend you avoid universities. Degrees are too academic and not specific enough for modern IT roles. If this is a bit of a revelation to you, look at the Jobsites and you'll see that most employers are looking for commercial qualifications.

what options are there for commercial training? In the past there have been two options:

One option is Boot Camps. These are very intensive 10 to 14 week brain bending training sessions that are set up for people to pass qualifications quickly. If you're sharp and good at learning, and totally commit all your spare time over that period, they will.

Be aware that employers have a tendency to see candidates with qualifications gained in this way to be less capable. Historically students from boot camps rarely have a good enough understanding of their skill to handle some of the day to day challenges thrown up in the working environment.

so these days you'll find a fair number of your classmates are experienced IT professionals who are upgrading their skills. They know the subject well, which will put you at a disadvantage in the classroom.

The second is the typical Distance Learning College, using study books and reference manuals. It is possible to be successful, but you'll need steely drive and commitment. Most of these colleges couldn't make a profit if large numbers of their students didn't drop out on the way.

What To Look For In IT Training Providers...

Make sure you see their training materials, and decide for yourself whether you can learn from them. If you're given some excuse why you can't be shown them, think if it's wise to train with them?

At the times you plan to study you'll need access to tutors, not a message system for a call back later in office hours, so please find out exactly how their support works and make sure it will suit the way you plan to work.

Beware of companies who ask for money up-front for your exams as an all-in cost. You will be paying interest for something you could pay for later and they are hoping to keep the money if you don't take them all!

If these typical IT training provider descriptions are making you question your wish to train, there is a refreshing viable option. Cutting-edge interactive learning has now come of age, and can be delivered to your door on discs. You can also find companies that bolt on a direct access 24/7 support system to create the ultimate training package at a fraction of the cost.

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