Operating Systems course - resource suggestions

[Joe Bontke]

I am reaching out for suggestions for textbooks/resources to use for a course that I am teaching. The course is an introductory to intermediate look at current Windows and Linux operating systems. The course description and objectives/learning outcomes are as follows:

Course Description:

This course examines two of the most prominent operating systems: Windows and Linux. Students will explore structural and functional topics in both operating system environments to complete hands-on activities that reinforce using various commands and interfaces for each task. Tasks include: Installing and maintaining operating systems; Configuring and utilizing standard utilities and applications; Implementing and maintaining files and file systems; Exploring the fundamentals of installing, managing, and configuring network clients.

Student Learning Objectives:

• Configure and manipulate Windows and Linux-based systems operating systems
• Configure and manage operating system interfaces, utilities, and applications
• Perform basic file management operations
• Create, mount, and manage operating system file systems
• Identify, access, and control hardware resources
• Maintain and update operating system installations
• Connect and share operating system resources via simple network environments

This course bridges the skills and knowledge acquired from the CompTIA A+ objectives covering these operating systems to Microsoft Windows Desktop Admin certification objectives and CompTIA Linux+ objectives. It is not designed to teach System Admin level skills rather, it is intended to provide a deeper understanding and exploration of both environments before moving to the administrator level.

I have used a Cengage textbook for this course for the last 3 years, but it is now time to update. Cengage has discontinued the textbook/author relationship, so I need to find some new resources. What I have found does not really fit the course's objectives, and there are not many usable hands-on resources in the Cengage offerings that have been suggested.

Any ideas would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

JB

 

[Carlos Miranda]

Have you looked at the Cisco NetAcademy? We used it before, and they will work with schools as a resource, it's been a few years that I used it, but it's an option.

 

[Joe Bontke]

Have you looked at the Cisco NetAcademy? We used it before, and they will work with schools as a resource, it's been a few years that I used it, but it's an option.

Thank you Carlos. I know they have some Linux courses in the academy, but I haven’t looked into them heavily. I would not mind making a customized course, if I didn’t have 6 others to manage, update and deliver each semester. ? The challenge never ends!!! ?

 

[Jarrel]

Here's free introductory course on Linux, by the Linux Foundation
https://training.linuxfoundation.org/training/introduction-to-linux/

Here's free self-paced learning resources on Windows installation, from Microsoft.

MD-100 Install the Windows client - Training

MD-100 Install the Windows client

docs.microsoft.com

There are many other courses available at Microsoft Learn. Check them out too:

Browse all courses, learning paths, and modules - Training

Learn new skills and discover the power of Microsoft products with step-by-step guidance. Start your journey today by exploring our learning paths and modules.

docs.microsoft.com

If there's a specific topic you need, just let the community know.
Hope this helps!

 

[Joe Bontke]

Here's free introductory course on Linux, by the Linux Foundation
https://training.linuxfoundation.org/training/introduction-to-linux/

Here's free self-paced learning resources on Windows installation, from Microsoft.

MD-100 Install the Windows client - Training

MD-100 Install the Windows client

docs.microsoft.com

There are many other courses available at Microsoft Learn. Check them out too:

Browse all courses, learning paths, and modules - Training

Learn new skills and discover the power of Microsoft products with step-by-step guidance. Start your journey today by exploring our learning paths and modules.

docs.microsoft.com

If there's a specific topic you need, just let the community know.
Hope this helps!

Jarrel,

Thank you for the resource links!!! These are all excellent sources, and I very much appreciate your feedback!!

 

[Jarrel]

Jarrel,

Thank you for the resource links!!! These are all excellent sources, and I very much appreciate your feedback!!

Glad to help.