Saturday, November 7, 2009

How To Choose Microsoft MCSE UK Training - Options

By Jason Kendall

Are you toying with the idea of doing an MCSE? If the answer's 'yes', there's a good chance that you'll fall into one of two camps: You are a knowledgeable person and you should formalise your skills with a qualification such as MCSE. Instead this could be your first step into commercial IT, but it's apparent to you that there are many opportunities for qualified people.

As you do your searches, you will discover companies that reduce their costs by failing to use the current Microsoft version. Avoid training companies like these as you will face problems when it comes to exams. If your knowledge is of the wrong syllabus, it is going to be hugely difficult to get qualified.

Don't rush into buying a course before you feel comfortable. Look for a company who will put effort into advising you on the best course for your requirements.

Your training program should always include the most up to date Microsoft (or any other key organisation's) authorised exam preparation packages.

Steer clear of depending on non-accredited exam preparation questions. The way they're phrased can be completely unlike authorised versions - and this leads to huge confusion when the proper exam time arrives.

You should make sure you test your knowledge by doing quizzes and simulated exams prior to taking the real deal.

People attracted to this sort of work are often very practical, and aren't really suited to the classroom environment, and struggling through thick study-volumes. If this could be you, try the newer style of interactive study, with on-screen demonstrations and labs.

Studies in learning psychology have shown that we remember much more when we receive multi-sensorial input, and we get practically involved in what we're studying.

Locate a program where you'll receive a selection of CD and DVD based materials - you'll start with videos of instructor demonstrations, followed by the chance to hone your abilities through virtual lab's.

It's imperative to see examples of the study materials provided by your chosen company. Be sure that they contain video, demonstrations and various interactive elements.

Select physical media such as CD or DVD ROM's in all circumstances. Thus avoiding all the issues associated with internet connection failure and issues with signal quality.

A sneaky way that colleges make a lot more is via an 'exam inclusive' package then giving it 'Exam Guarantee' status. This looks like a great idea for the student, but is it really:

You'll be charged for it ultimately. One thing's for sure - it isn't free - they've just worked it into the package price.

Should you seriously need to pass in one, then you should pay for each exam as you go, give it the necessary attention and apply yourself as required.

Why pay the training college at the start of the course for exam fees? Go for the best offer at the time, instead of paying any mark-up - and sit exams more locally - rather than possibly hours away from your area.

Why tie up your cash (or borrow more than you need) for examinations when there was no need to? Big margins are secured by training companies charging all their exam fees up-front - and hoping either that you won't take them, or it will be a long time before you do.

Also, you should consider what an 'exam guarantee' really means. Many training companies will not pay for re-takes until you're able to demonstrate an excellent mock pass rate.

Exams taken at VUE and Prometric centres are approximately 112 pounds in the UK. What's the point of paying huge 'Exam Guarantee' fees (usually wrapped up in the course package price) - when a quality course, support and a commitment to studying and the use of authorised exam preparation tools are actually the key to your success.

Frequently, your typical IT hopeful really has no clue how they should get into a computing career, or which market they should be considering getting trained in.

Flicking through lists of IT career possibilities is a complete waste of time. Surely, most of us have no concept what our next-door neighbours do at work each day - so we have no hope of understanding the subtleties of any specific IT role.

To attack this, there should be a discussion of a variety of definitive areas:

* Your personality type plus what interests you - which work-oriented areas you like and dislike.

* What time-frame are you looking at for your training?

* Does salary have a higher place on your priority-list than some other areas.

* Often, trainees don't consider the energy involved to attain their desired level.

* The level of commitment and effort you will commit getting qualified.

For the majority of us, sifting through these areas needs a long talk with someone who can investigate each area with you. And we're not only talking about the certifications - but the commercial expectations and needs of the market as well.

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