DCTS - Computer Networking Technology

Program Overview

The Computer Networking program centers on networks and the computer devices that comprise a typical network. This includes building, maintaining, and supporting computer network systems. Completion of this program provides the foundation for beginning a career in Information Technology (IT). With a solid understanding of network fundamentals, a variety of careers related to information technology are possible. These careers include desktop support, network engineering and administration, computer forensics, and IT security.

Industry certifications align with CompTIA including A+, Network+ and Security+. Students have the opportunity to pursue Microsoft Technology Associate Certifications including Windows Operating System Fundamentals, Networking Fundamentals, and Security Fundamentals. Other Industry Certifications to pursue include Cisco Certified Networking Associate (CCNA).

Final two (2) years of this program align with the Harrisburg Area Community College’s Computer Networking Technology Associate Degree program. Students may have the opportunity to earn upwards of 20+ college credits towards their Associate degrees.

Skill Alignment Chart (Click to Expand)

Educational & Physical Attributes	Expectations
Program Safety & Physical Considerations	Ability to work independently Ability to work as a team member Good eye/hand coordination Safety equipment worn
Essential APTITUDES for this lab–Recommended Levels	Eye/hand coordination Finger dexterity Keyboarding skills Social perceptiveness Resource management Active listening and speaking skills Spatial awareness
Reading	Explain the main ideas or draw accurate conclusions after reading text Follow a complex multi–step procedure independently Evaluate how key words, phrases, and acronyms shape meaning in texts Comprehend written text and apply it to understand tables, charts, maps, and other visuals Learn and apply content–specific symbols correctly Apply content–specific vocabulary correctly Identify and explain how different ideas connect throughout text Read and understand diagnostic and schematic data to solve a problem Compare & contrast information in a text Summarize information from different written resources By the end of grades 9–10 & 11–12 read & comprehend technical texts independently & proficiently Textbook: Data, Voice, and Video Cabling, Third Edition, Average grade reading level: 14.7 Textbook: CompTIA A+: A Comprehensive Approach, Average grade reading level: 15.5
Writing	Produce clear & coherent writing Develop and strengthen writing by brainstorming, revising, editing & rewriting Write with awareness to audience using program–specific vocabulary Write routinely over short/long time frames for a range of tasks, purposes & audiences Clearly convey with precision step–by–step work completed Use technology to produce, publish or share writing
Math Levels	Numbers and Operations: Grade 6 – Fluency in operations with whole numbers and decimals Grade 6 – Representing negative numbers Grade 6 – Whole number exponents Grade 7 – Percent and ratio problems Algebra 1 – Problem solving with real world units, including conversions Measurement: NG – Units: English Metric Precision: Nearest foot or meter Algebraic Concepts: Grade 6 – One–step equation solutions – one variable with all non–negative components Grade 7 – Two–step equation solutions – one variable Geometric Concepts: Grade7 – Scale drawings of geometric figures Geometry – Scale models and drawings Data and Probability: Grade 6 – Mean, median, mode, range, interquartile range, and mean absolute deviation Algebra 1 – Interpret data on various displays – use to make predictions
Theory Time	2.5–3 hours/day
Homework	About 2 hours/week Studying Completing assigned projects/labs
Lab Time
	2.5–3 hours/day
Tests	About 1 hour/week Pre–assessment (each semester) Chapter tests NOCTI (mandatory for all CTE programs)
POS Academics and Electives Recommended	College Prep English & Math are a component of the DCTS program Optional Math & English College in the High School
Study & Other Skills	Ability to multitask Understand and perform multi–step directions/tasks Note taking skills
Technology Skills/Knowledge	Use and navigate school–issued laptop Web navigation Email management Navigate learning management system and instructional technology tools Video conferencing
Certifications Offered	OSHA 10 A+ Net+ Lab Sim Net Pro Lab Sim PC Pro Lab Sim IT Fundamentals Pro IT Fundamentals+ Lab Sim Ethical Hacker Pro CCNA Possibility to earn various college credits
Post–Secondary Options and Continuing Ed	CIS – Computer Information Systems Computer Networking Technology Information Technology Computer Science

Computer Networking Technology

CIP Code

Possible Careers

Potential Certifications

Program Overview