In the bid to acquire skills and knowledge in today’s information age, many are turning to IT Training. For many individuals and organizations, the need for training has never been greater. This hunger for IT training is driven by the rapid rate of change in all spheres of life that are now affected by information technology. Individuals and organizations are making efforts to keep pace with the "latest" technical advancements.
IT Training is required both by users and professionals. To remain relevant, you have to be equipped with knowledge and tools required by the digital age. And training is a route followed by many. From time to time, you will have to take important decisions regarding training. Training is often your opportunity to proactively move your IT career forward. How should you do your groundwork? An informed decision is the key to getting training right. You can start by taking a look at ten things you must know about IT Training.
- Fill Skills and Knowledge Gaps
IT Training focuses on both the theory and practice of IT –the acquisition of skills and knowledge. It is therefore an activity that seeks to fill skills and knowledge gaps. What is lacking? Are you at zero level? Then the training you need is one that will make you computer literate. If you are an IT professional your need might be for IT certification. Before embarking on training you must know what your training needs are. What gap needs to be filled? Is the training need for an organization or an individual? What is your desired career path and specialization? What do you need to know? Are you sure training will close the gap? Set your training objectives carefully. The purpose of your training should be well defined. - See it, Hear it, Do it
To acquire practical IT skills and knowledge, the best training approach is that which uses the “See it, Hear it, Do it.” Concept, i.e. interactive and participative. You see it been done. You listen to concepts and ideas and then you do it yourself. “What you need to know how to do, you learn by doing.” Training must combine the right blend of theory and practice. - Choose Your Training Based on Substance
The quality of training varies widely. It is critical that you choose your training provider based on substance. A training center is assessed with respect to quality of materials, competence of trainers, degree of instructor support, training skills of trainers, corporate IT focus, counseling facilities, track record, quality of facilities and other quality related issues. You should be able to gain from the real world experience of the trainers. - Focus on Effective Learning
The focus of IT training should be on effective learning by students. Has the gap been filled? What can the learner do now that he or she couldn’t do previously? The training outcome is key. Are the skills and knowledge acquired relevant and adequate? What is the value of training you have received? The outcome should be such that you must not only learn, but you must also be able to apply your learning for yourself. - Aquire Practical Skills
Certification and awards of diplomas are important training outcomes most especially where there is a lot of emphasis on paper qualifications. But the primary focus of IT training should be the acquisition of practical skills and knowledge; the award of certificates or diplomas is secondary. Paper certification will not get you anywhere in IT. Training should give you a form of certification (diploma, certificate, etc), as well as practical skills and knowledge. Training is not only about immersing yourself in knowledge, it’s also about creating opportunities for yourself. - Training is Essential
If you want to build a career in IT and you have a degree or certification without practical skills, training is essential for you. You need to acquire these skills and knowledge to advance your IT career. Cramming for tests and reading text materials alone are not enough to establish your IT career.
