CompTIA A+

Certification Preparation Course

Course Overview

This CompTIA A+ Certification Training course is meticulously designed to equip learners with the fundamental skills and knowledge required for a successful career in IT support and operations. Over four weeks, students will engage in an intensive exploration of computer hardware, operating systems, networking, mobile devices, security, and troubleshooting techniques. The curriculum is divided into 21 modules, each focusing on critical aspects of IT support, from assembling and disassembling computers to securing and troubleshooting networks and devices.

Curriculum Objectives

After completing this curriculum, you will be able to:

1. Understand Computer Hardware Fundamentals:
• Safely disassemble and reassemble desktop and laptop computers, identifying their major internal and external components, and understand the compatibility and connection between them.
• Recognize and utilize various tools essential for a computer hardware technician.
2. Master Motherboard Components and Maintenance:
• Describe, contrast, and identify various motherboard types and features.
• Configure motherboards using BIOS/UEFI firmware, perform maintenance tasks including firmware updates, and replace CMOS batteries.
3. Processors and Memory:
• Compare and select processors for personal computers based on their characteristics and features.
• Understand, select, and upgrade different types of physical memory, enhancing the performance of a computer.
4. Power Supply and System Cooling:
• Select appropriate power supplies based on system needs and describe methods and devices for keeping a system cool.
• Troubleshoot power supply and cooling system issues effectively.
5. Hard Drive and Storage Technologies:
• Understand the technologies used in hard drives and how a computer communicates with them.
• Install, troubleshoot hard drives, and support various storage devices including optical drives, solid-state storage, and flash memory devices.
6. Peripheral and I/O Device Support:
• Install, configure, and troubleshoot I/O devices such as mice, keyboards, webcams, and display devices.
• Understand and support the video subsystem, including monitor and video card selection and the configuration of dual monitors.
7. Networking Fundamentals:
• Explain TCP/IP protocols and standards, compare networking hardware, and configure devices in a local network.
• Troubleshoot common network issues and understand the fundamentals of networking infrastructure and cloud computing services.
8. Mobile Devices:
• Support various types of mobile devices and operating systems, configure email and content synchronization, and troubleshoot common mobile device issues.
9. Printer Support:
• Discuss printer types, features, installation, and perform routine maintenance tasks.
• Troubleshoot printer problems effectively.
10. Professional IT Support:
• Demonstrate professionalism and respect in customer support, manage documentation for asset management, and understand the complexity of diverse software environments.
11. Operating System Installation and Maintenance:
• Evaluate systems for compatibility with Windows operating systems, perform installations, configure settings, and conduct scheduled preventive maintenance.
12. Troubleshooting Operating Systems:
• Apply an organized approach to solving software and hardware problems, including issues occurring during the boot process and after startup.
13. Security Strategies:
• Secure resources on a network, detect and prevent malicious software, and understand policies related to software licensing, data compliance, and incident response.
14. Advanced Networking and Security:
• Secure workstations and networks, including IoT devices, using advanced security measures and troubleshoot network connections.
15. Supporting macOS and Linux:
• Use, maintain, update, and troubleshoot macOS and Linux operating systems, and understand common scripting languages and their applications.

Course Requirements

To successfully engage and complete this Security+ training course, student should possess some basic computer literacy and possess a 9th grade reading/comprehension level. A basic understanding of computer frameworks is preferred.

A computer with the minimum requirements to use of Cengage

Course Schedule and Learning Objectives

Week 1: Security Fundamentals

Week 2: Endpoint Security

Week 3: Cryptography and Network Security

Week 4: Enterprise Security

Getting Help

If you have questions or need to have something explained there are lots of ways to get help. If I am contacted through email, canvas, or phone I will respond within 24 hours.

·         Message the instructor through the Canvas platform.

·         Contact the course instructor VIA phone call.

·         Send your question via email to course instructor.

Participation & Attendance

It is expected each student to participate in class discussion and to engage your fellow students along with the instructor in the activity of learning.

Among other things this means that each student will have completed any reading, assignments, labs, etc. that are due. Additional means of measurement is the component of taking attendance at the start of class.

Assignments will be turned-in at the start of class on the day they are due. Any assignment (exercise or project) will be accepted for partial credit for up to one week after the due date. They will be marked down according to how late they are. One week or more after the due date for any particular assignment it will not be accepted any longer for credit.  

Course Policies 

·         Disruptive Behavior – Disruptive behavior of any type is NOT permitted and may result in dismissal from the program. Muting and leaving during a virtual class, tardiness to class, excessive talking during class, and disrespectful behavior are examples of disruptive behavior.

·         Plagiarism – Submitting plagiarized work for an academic requirement is considered academic misconduct. Plagiarism is the representation of another’s work or ideas as one’s own; it includes the unacknowledged word-for-word use and/or paraphrasing of another person’s work, and/or inappropriate unacknowledged use of another person’s ideas.

·         Diversity - It is the responsibility of the instructor and the students to foster and maintain a harmonious, non-threatening and non- discriminating environment in the classroom. Therefore, all individuals are to be respected as equal and contributing partners of our society.

·         Attendance: Must maintain at least 90% rate of attendance. You are required to attend all classes. However, you may miss up to 2 classes and still pass the course. Any other absences must be approved by the instructor

Grading

Evaluation of student performance is based upon pupil performance objectives relating to course competencies study. The number of competencies mastered, and the degree of mastery is translated into appropriate grades consistent with the DSDT SAP policy on grading guidelines, practices, and procedures.

In the process of evaluation, instructors obtain several grades for each student within the time frame of the course. These grades may include, but are not limited to, performance on tests, quizzes, assignments, classroom participation, lab competency mastery and/or improvement and the demonstration of positive employability traits.

Delivery Methods

This course will be taught using the Canvas LMS system. Curriculum will be accessed through the Cengage Unlimited Portal within the Canvas LMS. The course will be delivered through lecture in-person. For students who are not required to attend class in person due to program funding source, the lectures will be delivered via Microsoft Teams meetings platform. Students will log on to Canvas through their school provided Office 365 Account.

Students are expected to participate.

All students will have the same expectations to participate in this course regardless of course delivery. All will be treated as though you are present at the school. It is important that all students pay attention during class and limit the amount of outside distraction present. DSDT expects all students to speak up if they are falling behind or not able to complete a lesson due to technology issues. Just as in person, the class will not mind pausing to ensure no student is left behind.

Special Accommodations

Accommodations for Disabilities: If you have any kind of disability, whether apparent or non-apparent, learning, emotional, physical, or cognitive, and you need some accommodations or alternatives to lectures, assignments, or exams, please feel free to contact me to discuss reasonable accommodations for your access needs.

It is now estimated that 50% of Americans have a side hustle —even if they earn $100K1. While entrepreneurship carries some risk, the current job market and economy no longer offer the same level of security they once did. There’s no better time than the present to bring your business idea to life!

The 3-course entrepreneurship series follows a learning progression, building upon earlier content to help entrepreneurs develop a working knowledge of key business concepts and principles pivotal to each stage of entrepreneurship. Completion of this series can help you expand your business acumen and develop a multi-disciplinary approach to problem-solving, skills transferable to any career.

Launching a Business Venture is the second course in this series, designed to help aspiring entrepreneurs like you take action and learn the critical steps needed to strategically advance a business idea from planning to launch. You will step into the shoes of an entrepreneur through immersive real-world scenarios and discover the secrets of successful business launches and the top reasons why ventures fail. This course covers a comprehensive mix of topics like Marketing Techniques and Tools for Entrepreneurs, Launching the Imperfect Business: Lean Startup, Sales and Customer Service, and more!
Here’s what you will learn.

• Preparing for This Course
• Module 1: Entrepreneurial Marketing and the Marketing Mix
• Module 2: Market Research, Market Opportunity Recognition, and Target Market
• Module 3: Marketing Techniques and Tools for Entrepreneurs
• Module 4: Entrepreneurial Branding
• Module 5: Marketing Strategy and the Marketing Plan
• Module 6: Sales and Customer Service
• Module 7: Launching the Imperfect Business: Lean Startup
• Module 8: Why Early Failure Can Lead to Success Later
• Module 9: The Challenging Truth about Business Ownership
• Module 10: Managing, Following, and Adjusting the Initial Plan
• Module 11: Growth: Signs, Pains, and Cautions
• Module 12: Avoiding the "Field of Dreams" Approach
• Module 13: Designing the Business Model
• Module 14: Conducting a Feasibility Analysis
• Module 15: The Business PlanModule 16: Launching Your Venture
• Launching a Business Venture Course Final Exam

Welcome to "Harnessing AI for Business Efficiency." In today's rapidly evolving landscape, artificial intelligence is revolutionizing how businesses operate, offering transformative benefits across various sectors. From automating repetitive tasks to providing data-driven insights, AI enhances efficiency and productivity. For instance, AI-driven predictive analytics can optimize inventory management, reducing costs and improving customer satisfaction. Additionally, AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants are streamlining customer service, handling inquiries, and providing support around the clock. By integrating AI into business processes, companies can not only streamline operations but also foster innovation and maintain a competitive edge in the market.

Course Summary

Duration: 90 Minutes

Course Overview

This hands-on workshop equips business professionals with practical AI implementation strategies to dramatically improve operational efficiency, enhance customer experiences, and reduce costs. Participants will learn to identify high-impact AI opportunities within their organizations and implement practical solutions using accessible tools with minimal coding requirements.

Using the fictional travel agency "Wanderlust Travels" as our case study throughout the course, participants will gain concrete examples of AI implementation that can be directly translated to their own business contexts.

Learning Objectives

By completing this course, participants will be able to:

• Understand fundamental AI concepts and their business applications
• Identify prime opportunities for AI implementation in their operations
• Select appropriate AI tools based on business needs and ROI potential
• Implement practical, cost-effective AI solutions with minimal technical expertise
• Measure and evaluate the impact of AI implementations on business efficiency
• Develop an AI implementation roadmap for their organization

Key Topics Covered

AI Fundamentals & Business Context

• Types of AI and how they apply to business operations
• Current AI landscape and future trends
• Ethical considerations and responsible AI use
• Strategic framework for AI implementation

AI Strategies for Business Efficiency

• Enhancing productivity with AI-powered automation
• Leveraging AI for data-driven decision-making
• Improving customer service with AI solutions
• Streamlining operations with virtual assistants
• Case study: Wanderlust Travels' business transformation

AI Tools Selection & Implementation

• Evaluating AI tools based on business requirements
• Cost vs. value analysis methodologies
• Integration considerations with existing systems
• Data security and governance
• Hands-on tool evaluation exercises

Practical Implementations (Hands-On Workshops)

1. AI-Powered FAQ Generation
   • Creating custom GPTs to analyze business documentation
   • Automating FAQ creation from customer service logs
   • Implementing AI-generated knowledge bases
2. Voice AI Agent Development
   • Building 24/7 customer service with ElevenLabs and n8n
   • Integrating with Google Sheets and Calendar
   • Creating natural-sounding AI voice interactions
3. Additional AI Business Tools
   • Visual content creation with AI tools
   • Business process automation using no-code platforms
   • AI-enhanced customer communications
   • Content creation and data analysis tools

Teaching Methodology

This course emphasizes practical application over theory. Each section combines brief instructional content with extensive hands-on activities, allowing participants to immediately apply what they've learned. The workshop uses readily available, free or low-cost tools that businesses of any size can implement.

Who Should Attend

• Business owners and entrepreneurs seeking competitive advantage
• Operations and efficiency managers
• Customer service leaders
• Marketing and communications professionals
• Technology decision-makers without extensive technical backgrounds

What Participants Will Take Away

• Working prototypes of AI tools they create during the workshop
• Templates and frameworks for AI implementation
• Cost analysis spreadsheets to evaluate AI investments
• Step-by-step implementation guides for additional AI tools
• A personalized AI roadmap for their business

Prerequisites

• Basic computer literacy
• No coding experience required
• Participants should bring a laptop
• Pre-workshop survey to identify specific business needs

Differentiators

Unlike theoretical AI courses, this workshop delivers immediate practical value through its focus on accessible tools, hands-on implementation, and business-centric approach. Participants don't just learn about AI—they build working AI solutions during the course that can be immediately deployed in their businesses.

This workshop is designed for business professionals seeking practical AI implementations rather than technical depth. For development-focused AI training, please see our companion course "AI Development for Technical Teams."

Stepping into a leadership role comes with new challenges—and new opportunities. This workshop is designed for professionals transitioning into management roles and aims to build a strong foundation in people leadership. Participants will explore the shift from individual contributor to team leader, learning essential skills in delegation, communication, team motivation, and setting priorities. It's not just about managing tasks—it's about leading people with purpose and confidence.

Key Takeaways:

• Understand the mindset shift from employee to manager

• Learn how to delegate effectively and avoid micromanaging

• Build trust and credibility with your team

• Navigate difficult conversations and workplace dynamics

• Develop time management and goal-setting strategies for teams

Learn how to turn feedback into fuel for growth. This workshop gives leaders and supervisors the tools to guide employee performance with clarity, consistency, and confidence. Participants will explore practical strategies for setting expectations, conducting evaluations, addressing underperformance, and creating a culture of accountability and support. Whether you're new to managing people or refining your approach, this workshop helps you lead performance—not just measure it.

Key Takeaways:

• Set clear goals and performance expectations

• Deliver constructive feedback that drives improvement

• Conduct effective performance reviews and check-ins

• Address performance challenges with empathy and firmness

• Align individual goals with organizational success

Unlock the skills that inspire action and drive change. This dynamic workshop explores what it takes to be a true leader—regardless of your title. Participants will learn how to build trust, communicate with impact, and cultivate influence in both personal and professional settings. Through real-world scenarios, interactive exercises, and reflection, you’ll develop the confidence and clarity to lead with authenticity and purpose.

Key Takeaways:

• Understand the difference between leadership and authority

• Develop emotional intelligence and active listening techniques

• Learn strategies to influence and motivate others

• Practice conflict resolution and decision-making under pressure

• Build your personal leadership style and action plan

Searching for a job can be intimidating. How do you know what job you’re best suited for? How do you build a winning résumé and cover letter? Where can you find job leads? How do you network without feeling nervous? What happens when you land an interview? And most importantly, where do you find help when you need it?

This course will give you the answers to all these questions, plus a plan to get you to a new job within a month. After completing this program, you’ll be more than ready to start your search for your perfect job.

Master the art of face-to-face selling through this hands-on, interactive workshop. Designed for individuals looking to build confidence and close more sales in person, this course walks participants through essential modules on customer engagement, product presentation, handling objections, and closing techniques. Whether you're new to sales or looking to sharpen your skills, you'll gain practical tools to build trust, create value, and drive results.

Participants must complete each module to progress through the course. A certificate of completion will be awarded upon successful completion of all required content.

Key Modules Include:

• First Impressions and Body Language

• Building Rapport and Trust

• Understanding Customer Needs

• Presenting Products with Impact

• Handling Objections with Confidence

• Closing the Sale and Following Up

Welcome to the Call Center Training Workshop. A well-trained call center is the heart of any operation.  Call center employees who know how to handle a great variety of situations with skill and professionalism will be an asset to the organization, and will benefit themselves in terms of salaries and performance bonuses.  Call Center Training offers the employee an opportunity to enter their work area with the confidence that they are equipped to answer questions and overcome objections, and ultimately close the deal.

Workshop Objectives

Research has consistently demonstrated that when clear goals are associated with learning, it occurs more easily and rapidly. With that in mind, let’s review our goals for today.

At the end of this workshop, participants should be able to:

·         Define and understand call center strategies

·         Identify different types of buying motivations

·         Create SMART Goals

·         Become familiar with strategies that sharpen effective communication

·         Use proper phone etiquette

·         Set benchmarks

Gain control of the numbers so they don’t control you. This workshop is designed for non-financial managers, team leads, and small business owners who need to understand budgeting and financial reporting without the jargon. Participants will learn how to read, interpret, and use financial data to make informed decisions, track performance, and contribute to organizational success. It's about making the numbers work for your goals—not the other way around.

Key Takeaways:

• Understand key financial statements (income statement, balance sheet, cash flow)

• Learn how to build and manage a realistic budget

• Monitor spending and financial performance effectively

• Use financial data to support planning and decision-making

• Communicate financial information clearly to stakeholders

Strong organizations are built on responsible individuals. This workshop helps participants understand what accountability looks like on the job—and how to embody it. Through real-life examples, interactive discussions, and self-assessment tools, learners will explore the traits of responsible employees, examine where they fall on the accountability ladder, and learn how to take ownership of their role. The course also introduces useful tools and software that help foster accountability across teams.

Key Takeaways:

• Define accountability and understand the accountability ladder

• Recognize the traits of responsible, dependable employees

• Reflect on personal accountability in the workplace

• Explore how responsibility (or lack of it) affects team performance

• Learn about tools and software that support workplace accountability

Workshop Title: Business Writing

Description:

Clear, professional writing is critical in today’s workplace. This workshop builds a strong foundation in essential business writing skills. Participants will learn how to structure a variety of business documents, strengthen their grammar and sentence construction, and apply best practices for clarity, tone, and format. The course also introduces proofreading and peer review techniques to help ensure accuracy and professionalism in every document produced.

Key Takeaways:

• Identify and correct common grammar and spelling issues

• Build strong sentences and organized paragraphs

• Structure agendas, emails, letters, proposals, and reports

• Apply formatting techniques for different types of business documents

• Gain an introduction to RFPs, projections, executive summaries, and business cases

• Use proofreading and peer review to improve writing quality

• Understand guidelines for printing and publishing business documents

Stepping into a leadership role comes with new challenges—and new opportunities. This workshop is designed for professionals transitioning into management roles and aims to build a strong foundation in people leadership. Participants will explore the shift from individual contributor to team leader, learning essential skills in delegation, communication, team motivation, and setting priorities. It's not just about managing tasks—it's about leading people with purpose and confidence.

Key Takeaways:

• Understand the mindset shift from employee to manager

• Learn how to delegate effectively and avoid micromanaging

• Build trust and credibility with your team

• Navigate difficult conversations and workplace dynamics

• Develop time management and goal-setting strategies for teams

Searching for a job can be intimidating. How do you know what job you’re best suited for? How do you build a winning résumé and cover letter? Where can you find job leads? How do you network without feeling nervous? What happens when you land an interview? And most importantly, where do you find help when you need it?

This course will give you the answers to all these questions, plus a plan to get you to a new job within a month. After completing this program, you’ll be more than ready to start your search for your perfect job.

Time management workshop