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COMPUTER TRAINING: MISCELLANEOUS COMPUTER COURSES

PCs, Safety, Hardware

Certification

Internet Use and Web Development Courses

QuickBooks

PCs, Safety, Hardware

Advanced Computer Troubleshooting

Taught by a CompTia A+ Certified Instructor.  This class will look at understanding the proper methodologies to diagnosing and troubleshooting computer problems for both software and hardware.  Real day-to-day situations and solutions will be discussed and examined.  Students should have prior knowledge of hardware components, Windows utilities, system files and registry.  Students may bring their computer to class to troubleshoot.

Basic Wireless Security Workshop

Over half of the wireless access points installed in homes have no security features enabled at all! An unsecured access point can be providing free internet service to anyone in the area. It can be used for criminal activity or to spy on the people who use the computers attached to it. This class will teach you how to configure basic security features on your wireless access point, and why they are important. If you have them, bring your own wireless access point and wireless laptop and we’ll help you configure their basic security measures.  One day workshop.

Computer Hardware and Networking for Home and Small Business

This is a hands-on course that will cover a broad range of hardware and software topics including installing, configuring, upgrading, troubleshooting, and repairing a computer system.  You will learn how to add and change many of the components in a computer such as: CD-Rom, Hard drive, Modem, Network Interface card, memory etc. You will also learn how to set up a small wired or wireless network.

Computer Tune-Up

Good maintenance is the key to computer longevity. Learn tips to maximize the performance of your computer, what to do when your computer freezes, how to find and delete unnecessary files your computer creates, optimize your computer’s speed and understand how your hard drive, processor chip and RAM work together.  Includes how to determine if your computer has a virus and what to do about it, back up your files, delete cookies and use the Internet to solve simple computer problems.  Prerequisite:  Basic computer skills and knowledge of Microsoft Windows.

Computer World

This course covers everything from computer selection to advanced troubleshooting.  Motherboard components, peripheral hardware components, Windows Operating Systems, new computer selection, software applications, setups, configurations, viruses, spyware/adware, rootkits, data-miners, trojans, slow computers, and slow Internet will be discussed as well as networking for home and small office.  Participants are to bring their list of questions to air.  Instructor holds Computer Technology Industry Association A+ Certification as well as the Dell Certification. 

Keeping Your PC Safe

Do you have questions about virus protection?  Spyware?  Phishing and other scams?  Spam?  Learn what you can do protect your PC, yourself and your family while using the computer and surfing the Internet.

Security & Maintenance for the Home Computer

Is your computer running slower then it did when you purchased it? Do images and messages keep popping up while you are using your computer? In this class you will learn how to protect your computer against viruses, spy ware, and other computer problems that can occur in computers today. Learn how to maintain your computer system to keep the system up to date with the installation of the latest updates and patches. See how easy it is to keep your computer running efficiently and quickly all the time. 

Setting up and Securing Your Home Network

Tired of disconnecting, moving, and reconnecting printers?  Would you  like to connect the laptops, desktops, printers, and other peripherals in your home.  Learn how to do so and keep all your information secure while doing so! We’ll look at a variety of manufacturers’ devices then work to configure your own equipment. A wireless network is easier to configure than you think!

You’ve Got Questions, We’ve Got Answers

Do you have a nagging question about a software application?  Something you KNOW you should be able to do but can’t quite figure out?  Are you overwhelmed trying to figure out if you need or want any of the many gadgets out there?  Have you tried to find an airfare online only to receive too many choices?   Attend one of these evening classes, designed to answer some of your questions, learn the answer, and learn from the questions and answers others bring.  When registering, let us know your specific question about one of these computer applications or areas.

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Certification

A+ Certification Exam Preparation

This class is taught by an experienced CompTIA A+ Certified and Dell Certified BRCC Adjunct College Instructor.  The CompTIA A+ certification is a validation tool to provide employers with technicians who have the latest skills to perform as computer support professionals.  Students will focus on the CompTIA qualifiers and learn in-depth about issues with the Windows operating system(s), configuration, methodical troubleshooting, diagnosing, preventive maintenance, basic networking and hardware components.  Each class will be comprised of lecture, interactive discussion, real-life troubleshooting examples and actual CompTIA A+ exam questions.  Required book is CompTia A+ Essentials Exam 220-601 by Mike Meyers, McGraw/Hill/Osborne Publishers.  (Chapters 2 thru 4 to be read before first class).

Cisco Networking

This course covers material that is part of Cisco’s Networking Academy program and of BRCC’s credit class but offered in the non-credit environment, in response to local business requests. Course material will concentrate on covering the objectives on the CCNA exam. Upon completion, students will have the needed material to sit for the certification exam, if they so choose.

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Internet Use and Web Development Courses

Web Design Series

Basic Design Course - The Look

This course is a basic study in the two-dimensional organization of elements. This foundational course will familiarize students with vocabulary, color theories and basic guidelines necessary for the design of attractive web pages. You will also learn basic page design through careful critique of existing web pages and navigational structure.

Web Development using DreamWeaver - The Tool

Using Macromedia’s DreamWeaver, you will learn how to use and write World Wide Web documents, with an emphasis on text formatting, graphics, links, and tables. You will also learn how to create custom templates, work with images, external data, and frames. Emphasis is on learning the software, not on design.

Internet Programming - The Fundamental Code

This course will introduce students to HTML (Hypertext Markup Language), JavaScript, and Cascading Style Sheets. You will gain an understanding of the basic concepts of Internet Programming used to design and create web pages.  Lays the foundation for the CSS in Advanced Site Design and JavaScript classes.

Advanced Site Design Using CSS - The Design/Layout Code

This course will focus on web design that conforms with W3C recommendations for XHTML (Strict) and CSS (Cascading Style
Sheets). You will also learn the concepts of semantic CSS and table-less design. Prerequisite: Internet Programming.

Practical Java Script  - The Dynamic/Interactive Code

JavaScript is a key element in modern web design. It is a powerful language that can make web pages more dynamic and interactive. In this class, you will learn various dynamic and interactive applications of JavaScript that can be generalized for customized use on web pages. (Prerequisite: Internet Programming or permission of the instructor).

Introduction to Blogging

Weblogs (Blog for short) are rapidly becoming an Internet standard. This course will introduce the student to the "Blogosphere" and its related concepts and technologies.  You will learn about Blog software, navigation, terminology, and etiquette.

Developing a Content Management System-based Web Site

Learn how to build and manage personal homepages, user communities, and corporate websites with ease using Joomla!, one of the most popular content management systems.  XHTML and CSS experience helpful, but not required.

Building a Database-Driven Web Site Using MySQL and PHP

Learn how to query, sort and display information from your database into your website. This course introduces you to database basics using MySQL and incorporating dynamic elements using PHP.

Getting the Most from Facebook

You’ve got a Facebook page.  You’ve friended a few people, may have even posted a picture or found a buddy from college.  There has to be more to it than this!  Come and discover “more”!

Google Apps

Google has numerous built-in applications that are free for you to use for your business or personal needs—calendaring, email, create documents, presentations, web pages, forms, spreadsheets, manipulate them, track usage, edit and organize photos, and more.  We’ll cover a different App each evening—sign up for one or all!

Obtaining Domain Names and Publishing Your Web Site

This course will address selecting, obtaining and registering your company’s domain name so customers and users can find your site. You will also discuss web publishing companies and how to select one to fit your needs.

Home Computer and Internet Security

How can you protect yourself from people who try to steal your credit card number or identity over the internet? How can you protect yourself from people who try to hack your computer, and why are they doing it, anyway? This is a basic class on how you can protect yourself from internet fraud, viruses, spyware, spam and hacking. We’ll have hands-on practice in installing updates, and free or inexpensive software to help protect your computer.   One day workshop.

Internet Security

This course will address specific security concerns for your computer and company information. You will learn about personal privacy, security patches, firewalls, and technologies such as encryption and cookies. We will discuss personal privacy, use of credit cards, e-mail and instant messaging, and technologies such as encryption and cookies.

Driving Traffic to Your Site

Now that you have your site developed and published, how do you market it? This course will teach you about Meta tags, introduces you to several techniques to publicize your website, and bring it to the top of the search list when using search engines.

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Basic Digital Photography

This course is designed to provide basic knowledge for individuals entering the field of digital photography and the use of digital cameras and processing of digital images. Topics will include: using computer-based equipment instead of conventional cameras, .lm and darkroom processing; an explanation of how the camera captures images and stores them; an introduction to the digital darkroom and the use of photo editing software; an explanation of how images are printed using ink jet printers and consumer printing stations; and displaying and sharing images.

Intermediate Digital Photography

This course is designed for photographers who have the basic operation knowledge of the digital or film camera and want to apply these skills to capturing their visual surroundings.  The course will focus on studying shutter speeds, aperture, lighting, and how they relate to the various aspects of the photography field.

Digital Photography Darkroom

Using Adobe Photoshop LE, individuals in this course will learn how to edit and enhance photographs as well as import them into documents. Participants will also gain a basic understanding of saving images in the correct file format. This is a great beginning for those individuals with an interest in the digital darkroom.

Keep Up with Your Kids on the Computer!

Come join a computer class that will make you a proud parent.  You can learn how to: Organize digital photos on your computer; Email photos to friends and family; Edit and print your own photos; Create a DVD movie with music, using your own pictures; Surf the famous “Facebook”, and create your own account in class; Copy files onto a memory stick/thumb drive; Use the new tools in MS Office Word 2007 like smart art and photo features.

Photos, Photos, Everywhere But I Can’t Find Them!!

Now that you’ve returned from vacation, where will you put all those digital photos?  And, how will you be able to find them to use in your holiday letter?  Learn about creating folders, moving photos into folders, tagging and searching for photos, editing, cropping and other adjustments, printing and emailing those photos.

Digital Scrapbooking

Learn fun and creative ways to share photographs with family and friends!  Students will create digital scrapbook pages of special moments using Photoshop Elements and their own photographs.  This course will cover basic layout guidelines, using and creating graphic and text elements, editing and enhancing photos, and digital scrapbooking resources available on the internet.

How to Sell (& Buy) on E-Bay

Are you looking for a fun way to supplement your income, or do you simply wish to clean out your closet, attic, or garage? Are you looking to purchase treasures at a lower price or searching for unique items not available in the local store?  This introductory course on how to sell and buy on E-Bay will include these topics: E-Bay rules and regulations, how to establish accounts for buying & selling, how to utilize buy and sell strategies, and how to market and write effective listings.  Discover methods to establish enforceable terms of sale, interpret and complete feedback, accurately determine shipping costs, and complete a smooth transaction.  You will create actual sell listings during the class.

How to Sell (& Buy) on eBay, Part 2!

Ready to go the next step with eBay?  Are you a registered eBay buyer/seller, but want to know more than just the basics?  This is the class for you.  Part 2 goes beyond simple auction buying and selling.  Learn the tricks, art and importance of better photography, spend additional time learning how to write a super listing that sells, and determine how to position your items to sell, sell, sell!  All this and have fun too.  The only prerequisite is that you already be a registered eBay user, have an active account and a basic working knowledge of eBay.

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Introduction to Fireworks

This course will teach you how to create, edit and enhance web graphics; create banners and navigational bars for your website, as well as gain a basic understanding of file formats appropriate for the web.

Introduction to Flash

This course will introduce you to the Flash interface and drawing tools, animation basics, shape and motion tweening, and buttons. Fee includes textbook.

Introduction to Flash II

This course will introduce you to ActionScripting, incorporating sound and video, and advanced publishing and exporting of Flash files. Fee includes textbook. Prerequisite: Introduction to Flash I

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Basic Wireless Security Workshop

Over half of the wireless access points installed in homes have no security features enabled at all!  An unsecured access point can be providing free internet service to anyone in the area. It can be used for criminal activity or to spy on the people who use the computers attached to it. This class will teach you how to configure basic security features on your wireless access point, and why they are important. If you have them, bring your own wireless access point and wireless laptop and we’ll help you configure their basic security measures.

Internet Research

Learn to search the Internet effectively--1,000 hits aren't very helpful if none includes the information you need.  This course will cover the construction of deep searches, how to browse subject guides, and finding specialty information.  Includes text useful for future reference.

Internet, Email, and Searches—Oh my!

What is the Internet?  How do I search the Internet and find what I want?  How do I distinguish good sites from bad?  What’s email, how do I get an account, attach a picture, get rid of junk mail?  Get the answers to these questions and more!

Website in a Night

Learn how to create a simple personal or business website with Google Page Creator.  This free service from Google is quick and easy.  By the end of the evening, you’ll have your very own site created and ready to share with friends, family or customers.  Bring any digitized photos you wish to include on a memory stick or a CD.  Basic word processing skills are required.

Web 2.0: Best of the New Interactive Capabilities

What’s a Wiki?  Are you LinkedIn?  Do you Twitter?  How many videos have you watched on YouTube?  How many have you posted?  Try out stumbleupon for new videos, lulu to publish your books and pictures, cafepress for promotional items, upcoming to list your event—there are lots of resources out there to be tried!

QuickBooks

QuickBooks Introduction

Learn how to efficiently manage your small business with this powerful accounting software.  Claudette Obenschain will provide an overview and Introduction to this popular accounting software.  Fee includes textbook.  Please note: this class is intended to introduce you to this software and is not an accounting class.  Uses QuickBooks 2007.

QuickBooks Pro

Learn how to efficiently manage your small business with this powerful accounting software.  This course will teach you how to: set up accounts for customers, vendors, etc; set up and manage payroll; manage inventory; track orders; prepare and process estimates; and prepare and interpret financial reports.  Fee includes textbook.  Please note: this class is intended to teach you to use this software and is not an accounting class.  Uses QuickBooks 2007 but is very applicable to users of 2008.

QuickBooks Pro-Advanced

Take the next step in tracking your business financial records. This hands-on-course will teach you advanced features of QuickBooks Pro. You will learn how to manage payroll and lists, as well as to track and prepare financial reports. Fee includes textbook.

QuickBooks Payroll and More

Learn how to setup payroll in Quickbooks Pro and, most important of all, how to process payroll in Quickbooks Pro.  We will also be creating payroll reports, preparing payroll taxes, and reviewing time tracking.  Participants should be familiar with Quickbooks Pro and be able to navigate the software. 

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Contact WSCE
(540) 453-2215
213-7022
941-3742
(888) 750-2722 ext 2215
wsce@brcc.edu
 
Blue Ridge Community College
One College Lane, Box 80
Weyers Cave, VA 24486

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