Computer Trainer Job Description and Responsibilities
The job market for computer trainers is growing
tremendously as businesses become fully computerized.
Trainers job description may teach computer and software usage as well
as programming. Some teach computer courses that include not only computer use
but also desktop design, desktop publishing, newsletter design, etc.
Individuals may specialize in instruction of one particular brand of computer
or a variety of brands. The same is true of software packages.
Trainers may teach in their own offices or classrooms,
at clients' offices or homes, or at rented facilities. There are training
companies that move around the country, rent large conference rooms, and fill
them with computers that are used to teach various programs.
Computer trainers use a variety of teaching aides
including slides, overhead projections, and videos. Teaching methods depend to
a great extent on the size of the class. In a one-on-one situation, trainers
will illustrate methods to each student on his or her own computer. In larger
classes, trainers may demonstrate methods using overhead charts and other
teaching tools.
Trainers must explain complex technical matters in ways
that students can readily understand. Getting students to ask questions is an
important way of gauging if they are interested and are grasping the concepts.
Individuals may teach one student, a small group or a
large audience of people, depending on the subject matter and the teaching
methods.
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Computer and software trainers can work full time, part
time, or on a consulting basis. Individuals may be employed in a number of
situations including: Corporations Software manufacturers Computer stores
Computer manufacturers, Consulting, Consulting companies, Self-employed and Computer
training centers
Expanding Opportunities for the 21st Century
There is a growing trend for self-employed individuals
who are proficient in the use of computers and popular software packages to
offer classes from their home or in students' homes or places of business.
EARNINGS
Computer trainers have a tremendous earning range
depending on a number of factors. These include the specific type of employment
situation, geographic location, experience, education, and responsibilities of
the individual.
Individuals working part time or consulting may earn
$20 to $150 or more per hour. Those working full time can have annual salaries
ranging from $20,000 to $45,000. Trainers teaching more complex programs or software
packages will usually earn more than individuals teaching basic ones.
ADVANCEMENT OPPORTUNITIES
After working for other trainers or training companies,
many individuals open up their own facility or become training consultants.
EDUCATION AND TRAINING
Employers usually prefer that their trainers have a
minimum of a high school diploma. Many trainers pick up the skills needed to be
proficient in this area while using their own equipment. Others attend formal
or informal training programs.
Training may be obtained in high schools,
vocational-technical schools, junior or community colleges, four-year colleges,
and universities. There are also a variety of seminars, workshops, and classes
offered by training centers, computer stores, and software manufacturers.
The more software packages and computer skills trainers
possess, the more marketable they will be.
EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS
Experience requirements vary for trainers. Employers
usually require some experience teaching or working with computers. Sometimes
both skills are required. Many computer trainers were salespeople in computer
stores, software departments, or sales reps for software companies.
FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Individuals
interested in becoming computer trainers should contact the Association for
Computing Machinery (ACM) or the Micro-computer Software Association (MSA).
TIPS
Send your resume and a short cover letter to computer
training centers, software manufacturers, and computer stores.
Learn as much as you can about computers, software, and
computer technology
If you are starting your own business as a trainer or
want to consult, talk to the management of local computer stores. They may
recommend your services to their customers.
Place an advertisement in the business or classified
section of the newspaper advertising your services.
Obtain experience by teaching a class in computers or
software in an adult or continuing education program.
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