Description:
Many people assume working with computers, robots, CNC machines and automation will never be an option for them. As a result, they miss significant opportunities. Our Computational Literacy for Modern Careers Certificate aims to change this. If you are willing to put in the effort, we will take you on a journey where you will learn how computers think, how they operate and how you can use them to solve problems. In addition to learning hard skills, you’ll develop important soft skills, including the ability to focus, pay attention to detail, communicate, solve problems, use logic and make correct decisions, persevere and adapt to changing conditions.
If you have the capability to learn and the desire to grow, this training program is for you. Throughout the program, students use a virtual robot to solve various simple tasks. This allows students to learn essential skills such as how to identify repeating patterns and how to break complex problems into simpler ones. Upon completing the program, students will have acquired the mindset and skills needed to successfully deal with automation and intelligent machines.
Prerequisites
Trainees must successfully complete a two-hour self-assessment to gain acceptance to this program. All interested trainees should contact an intake specialist prior to enrolling to complete an intake assessment. This interview helps the team of subject matter experts understand your commitment, aspirations and work habits to ensure success in the program.
Equipment Requirements
Computer, laptop or tablet with Internet access, web browser and email.
Program Structure and Length
This non-credit, online program utilizes active, self-paced Learn-By-Doing training. Students can work through each section at their own pace and have six months to complete the entire program.This innovative approach provides bite-sized lessons, requiring participants to show they have mastered each concept by completing exercises before moving on to the next module. Students practice each skill and concept as they go, and automatic feedback is built into the program for both practice lessons and quizzes.
The program is divided into five units, and each unit is composed of five sections. Each section consists of seven instructional/practice levels, a quiz and a master (proficiency) level. Students can return to any level or quiz for review.
Students need about 80 hands-on hours, based on their ability level, to complete this program. Since the program is self-paced, the completion time will vary. Students are responsible for learning both the tutorial content and the skills acquired through practice. Subject-matter experts are available to provide timely help as needed. These experts also will be proactive in reaching out to students at regular intervals during their training to discuss progress and provide assistance.<.p>
This program is suitable for anyone seeking to enhance their career or looking for a new career in a high-demand occupation. Students will learn following items and more in Computational Literacy:
- Understand the difference between algorithm and program
- Type programs using simple commands
- Understand basic syntax rules
- Understand error messages
- Identify repeating patterns
- Use the counting loop
- Use the conditional statement
- Use the Boolean operators “and,” “or” and “not”
- Break complex problems into simpler ones
- Define and use custom commands
- Understand the purpose of variables
- Count operations and assess program efficiency
- Work with X and Y coordinates
- Use comparison operators ==, !=, <, >, <= and >=
- Perform basic operations with lists
- Understand what recursion is and when it should be used
- Solve problems using recursion
- Use basic stochastic algorithms
This competency-based approach builds knowledge as well as practical experience, both of which are needed to qualify for many entry/mid-level computer job openings. Students who successfully complete the program will receive a certificate of completion from the University of Nevada, Reno and the professional portfolio necessary to demonstrate ability and qualify for job openings.
The University of Nevada, Reno Extended Studies Data Analyst Career Certificate is delivered through a partnership with NCLab, an innovative STEM career training provider.