Friday, July 17, 2009

Taking IT Fundamentals I

Discover Our Arts & Sciences Programs EWB was relatively simple, and much of it I did on a vacation to Disneyland via hotel rooms and airports. Could I have done this at a brick and mortar school? No.

So upon arriving home I spoke with my mentor to setup the initial courses for my degree program. I was initially setup with some lower division courses to start off with before getting into the Information Technology courses but after informing my mentor I had been studying for my A+ certification using Mike Meyers 1100 page book, he switched my courses around that within the next few months I would have my CIW Associates and A+ IT Technician certs.

When you start a course at WGU the first thing you do is refer to the Course Of Study which is the course syllabus. The texts, videos, practice tests, and other materials are called Learning Resources. The Course Of Study will tell you exactly which learning resources you need to sign up for as well as give a detailed outline for your progress.

The primary learning resource for my first course (IT Fundamentals I) is four textbooks with an included disk with labs and other tools. You will perform a variety of tasks such as web design, working with servers, databases, and some introductory programming (PHP, Javascript, Perl, etc.) They were also mailed to me without any extra cost, something I never experienced at community college.

Another resource is an extremely detailed video training course that covers the textbook material. I prefer to read the material first, and use the video training to clarify what I have read.

You will also be given access to practice tests that can be taken in a variety of different modes and will show you the specific areas that you are weak and/or strong. For instance, having done html in the past I scored well for that portion of the test, but was weaker with databases and programming. So instead of reading the whole book(s) again I could just view my test scores and review the specific sections I was lacking in.

It is really nice to have different learning resources with different formats. If I don't want to sit at my desk in front of the computer I can grab a textbook and read lying down on the couch. If textbook study gets boring and/or confusing I can tilt my chair back, put my feet up, and watch detailed and professional videos.

14 comments:

  1. I will be starting WGU next month. Information Technology—Networks Design & Management. How was the Readiness Assessment?

    ReplyDelete
  2. The inital readiness assessment has three sections: math, english, and a short essay. The one you start before EWB is more difficult and is an actual skills assessment. If you are lacking in any areas they will set you up with resources to get up to speed and your mentor can also move that course later into your program.

    ReplyDelete
  3. Hello. I am applying for WGU. I'm trying to get my application fee waived. Could your refer me? I see there is a place to add and affiliate code. Is that something I get from a current student? If so, would you be willing to e-mail me yours?

    ReplyDelete
  4. Thanks for blogging about your WGU experience. I'll be starting Sept 1 in the IT school. Not sure how I want to specialize, and feel surprised by being drawn to security. Probably too much 24!

    ReplyDelete
  5. Beau - WGU only allows a maximum of two referrels per student which I have already used. This is a great idea because otherwise the referrel program will turn into a saturated profit driven mess.

    Mary Ann - Welcome to WGU and I'm happy this blog has been helpful for you. Security is definately interesting.

    ReplyDelete
  6. You guys should take a look at http://www.wgustudents.com their are a lot of students their in your program that could be of help.

    ReplyDelete
  7. I appreciate sharing your WGU related website with us, however, it is good practice that when advertising your own website on someone elses that a reciprocol link be added. Thanks.

    * The above poster has been verified as a WGU student so I believe the website can be trusted. They have a forum where students may offer to refer you, HOWEVER, keep in mind you will be giving your name, address, and other personal details to complete strangers in order to save $65. Please be safe.

    ReplyDelete
  8. Use the affilliate code NHRA it waived mine.

    ReplyDelete
  9. What is the NHRA affilliated with? Is it ok to use that code?

    ReplyDelete
  10. I am concern about the math section, exactly what area do I have to study

    ReplyDelete
  11. This thread seems very old: can anyone offer me an affiliate code?

    Applying for the MBA with IT emphasis.

    ReplyDelete
  12. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  13. Hi, who needs help with WGU courses please go here www.homeworkfox.com

    I uesd it for me and i am very satisfied, just search your course here and find tutorials. Also, you can upload your own papers and earn money.

    ReplyDelete
  14. I'm not sure if this is still an active thread but if so can someone offer an affiliate code?

    ReplyDelete