2015-06-04
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TRAINING FOR COMPUTER PROFESSIONALS
The invention and evolution of the computer has resulted in millions of new types of computer-related jobs. From those who enter the data to those who maintain the largest computer systems, there continues to be a worldwide demand for workers who are trained to play a role in the development and use of computer technology.
Data Input Positions. Many of the educational resources can provide the kind of training that you will need for entry-level jobs in the computer industry. Skills related to the use of the basic types of applications programs will often be sufficient for those who want to be involved in the data input process. Because computers are used to store vast amounts of data, there is a great need for people who can use a keyboard, or other input devices, to get data into the system. As companies have become computerized, much of the training of employees to use computers has taken place on the job. Often this training takes place on the fly. Data entry people learn how to use a word processor while using it to do their job. When they get stuck, they refer to manuals and they ask questions. However, many companies have learned that it is more profitable in the long run to use a more realistic approach that provides in-house training or payment to employees who attend courses offered elsewhere.
As the use of computers has become more common, many businesses now are more likely to require potential employees to have computer skills before they are hired.
Technical Support Positions (Technicians). Technical support people help in the installation of hardware and systems software. After installation, they are involved in maintenance of the equipment. They also maintain networking hardware and data communications systems. These employees should be familiar with diagnostic procedures and electronics, and they should be able to read and understand technical manuals. These jobs require at least two years of college, but often a bachelor's degree is preferred.
Customer Support Technicians. There are a variety of companies that require customer support technicians. For example, manufacturers of computer hardware and computer software usually hire technical support personnel to answer user’s questions related to the company’s products. These people need to know not only about their company’s products, but also how the products interface with other systems. Retail stores that sell computer hardware and software may also have positions for technical support people in order to keep their customers satisfied. Technical support personnel usually have a background in computer technology before they are hired; nevertheless, since these positions require knowledge of a great variety of potential hardware and software problems, these employees will usually receive additional specialized training.
Technical Writers. There is a large demand for people who can write instructional manuals about how to use computers and related technologies. All of today’s hardware and software products include user manuals, reference guides, and often a variety of other technical documents. These documents are created by technical writers. Technical writers may also work with computer trainers to produce training materials and they may be called upon to produce specification sheets, product information sheets, brochures, and newsletters.
The technical writer must be skilled at translating technical jargon into a simplified language that can be readily understood by users of the product. Today, the technical writer is frequently called on to produce camera-ready copy for their employers. This requires special training in the use of desktop publishing and graphics programs, as well as knowledge of page design and a variety of other publishing skills.
For large projects, the technical writer may also become a project manager who works with technical editors and document-production staff during the production of the manual. As part of the production of technical documents, technical specifications must be deciphered, interviews with engineers and programmers must often be conducted, and arrangements must be made with data-entry people, desktop publishers, artists, photographers, and printers. The more of these skills a technical writer has, the more they can offer to potential employers. Sometimes technical writers are hired as outside consultants. Since technical writers must demonstrate knowledge of computer technology and possess excellent writing skills, they often have extensive experience and considerable education. An applicant for a technical writing position must usually show potential employers copies of manuals they have previously written.
Computer Artists. With the proliferation of hardware and software products designed to facilitate the creation of high-quality graphics, there is a growing demand for people who have the skills to put them to use. Ad agencies and design houses are now using microcomputers to create professional marketing documents and other types of advertising. Magazines, newspapers, and book publishers are hiring designers and graphics artists who are able to do their work on computers. Computer artists usually have completed specialized training in art and in the use of computer graphics programs.
Computer-Based Training Specialists. Many types of organizations are now hiring trainers to develop and implement computer-based training programs for their employees. These training programs may be entirely or partially delivered by computer. The designer of a computer-based training program must have a great deal of knowledge about the topics being taught andabout the hardware and software that is used in the training. These specialists must have education and experience not only in computer technology but they must also have skills in all methods, and they must possess excellent communication skills, both verbal and written. They are often also responsible for developing the training manuals and instructional materials that often accompany computer-based training programs.
15. Ответьте на вопросы:
1. What computer-related jobs do you know?
2. What functions do technicians perform?
3. What skills must technical writers possess?
4. How many years of college training does a job of technical writer require?
5. What are the functions of a computer artist?
6. What skills must computer-based training specialists have?
