There has been an ever growing battle among teaching professionals, businesses and even students as to what is more important, being book learned in a subject or having some practical hands on experience. We're not going to try to answer that question in this article, only present both sides and allow you, the reader to come to your own conclusions.
With computers, unlike many other subjects, such as accounting, where without theory you simply can't make the correct journal entries, there is a growing number of people without formal training who have very productive careers in the field of computers. In spite of this, there are those who argue that these workers will ultimately not be able to keep up with the ever-changing technology because they have not had formal training and don't know how to read and understand a technical training manual.
Those who believe that understanding the theories of computers, whatever the discipline, is more important than actual hands on use this as their argument. A student who simply gets a hold of a computer and begins working on it is working in the dark and only by trial and error and chance stumbles onto the correct procedure for whatever it is they are trying to do.
In some disciplines, like data entry, this may not be too difficult. After all, most data entry programs have menus to guide the user along, and specific text boxes for each form of input that is required. A person with basic reading skills could probably walk his way through a data entry screen and manage to perform simple data entry tasks.
But what happens when the student tries to tackle a more complex task like installing a hard drive in a computer. Without understanding the basic theories of electricity and grounding, it is quite likely that the student will end up shorting out the drive and possibly every component in the computer itself.
Those who argue the other side of this tricky coin, say that if a student were to try hands on without the aid of formal book knowledge, he would certainly have someone there to show them just how to install that hard drive. The overseer would explain to him along the way the main points that he would need to know in order to do the job correctly, without all the technical stuff that is usually 90% useless in most situations.
However, their more compelling argument for hands on over book knowledge is this. That same student, with all the book knowledge in the world, has still never physically handled a hard drive. In theory, he knows what's going on electronically and understands about grounding but until he actually gets his hands on a drive and tries to place it into that computer, he has no idea if he'll actually be able to handle the task. Maybe his hands will shake. Maybe he has poor eyesight and can't see well enough to make the right connections. Maybe he has trouble hooking up wires. Some people just aren't mechanically inclined.
Even in the field of programming a computer, a person may have complete knowledge of the language he is programming in, but without actually writing a program in a real business environment he has no idea of the complexities of a real life business application. That is why so many computer based products have patches upon patches of bug fixes, because many programmers working their first job simply aren't ready for what's involved.
No doubt the argument of book learning versus hands on will continue until time itself stops, and while no actual answers are given here, it is hoped that this article will give the reader something to think about when taking one side or the other.
On Line Computer Training
That is the question.
Are you wondering whether you should obtain computer training or not? Let me share some insight with you. Computers and computer related activities have permeated almost every aspect of our existence.
If you want to become an automobile mechanic, you will have to obtain computer training. If you want to work in the medical field, you will have to obtain computer training. If your desire is to pursue a career as an architect, or as a fashion designer, again, you will have to obtain computer training.
Most segments of industry such as the aerospace industry require the use and knowledge of computers. Computers have enabled designers to test airflow and structural integrity by using computer models. This allows the designer to test using the computer rather than having to build expensive mockups.
The benefits should be obvious. Not only does computer simulation allow for greatly reduced expense in testing the product. It also allows for faster production. Think of all the flight simulation done to train military personnel and pilots of all major airline carriers.
Think of forensics that use computer simulation to re-create accident scenes, thereby determining structural failure or other conditions that may have contributed to catastrophic accidents. These re-creations are done using computers. Computers, again, are used in forecasting weather, tracking and simulating hurricanes and tornadoes, and therefore are essential to safety.
Further, examine the animation industry and the many successes enjoyed by animators for both major films, and computer games. In fact, there is a growth industry of gamers paid extremely well to play and compete against each other. In venues around the world, these computer games bring in many sponsors, and a lot of revenue through ticket sales.
In Korea, for example, retired competitive champion gamers are selected and trained as stockbrokers, because of their proven ability to make split second decisions, and because of their hand to eye coordination with the keyboard and mouse.
Teachers utilize computers to create lesson plans, track test and quiz scores, attendance, and create report cards. Students on the other hand utilize computers to do research, produce reports and term papers, as well as, supplement materials presented in the classroom.
Certainly, I could continue giving example after example, but all of these industries require personnel that are computer trained as software writers, hardware builders, trainers, salespersons, and repair technicians. Look at the abundance of opportunities that one may find in virtually any industry, and at any level.
To obtain computer training or not obtain computer training, can never be the question. The question is and will always remain in what segment of industry you want to obtain computer training, no, need computer training. You will most certainly be passed over for promotion and pay increases if you have not prepared yourself by being computer trained.
You need computer training, and you know that if you are not trained to use computers, you could very well be phased out of a job. So, the question that begs to be asked is, what are you going to do about it? Are you going to continue to think about it, ponder what kind of world we would have if computers had never been invented, be angry at others that are preparing themselves to be achievers, or become computer trained, thereby being satisfied, well rewarded, and secure?
I believe you are going to obtain computer training and become a satisfied, competent, confident, and well rewarded computer user regardless what segment of industry you pursue. Once you have been computer trained the only question you will ask is, why did I wait so long?
What will be your answer and what are you waiting for?
Both Michael Russell & Dr. Thrash are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
Michael Russell has sinced written about articles on various topics from Celebrities, Dieting and Diabetes Treatment. Michael RussellYour Independent guide to . Michael Russell's top article generates over 2240000 views. to your Favourites.
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