Seeking Advice! First-Time CompTIA Trainer!

[Ronald]

Hello everyone,

I will be stepping into the role of a CompTIA trainer for the first time next month! With 15 years of experience in IT infrastructure, I’m passionate about networking and cybersecurity, and I’m excited about the opportunity to guide others on their certification journeys.

However, as with any new venture, I’m also a bit nervous and eager to ensure that I provide the best learning experience for my students. That's why I'm reaching out to this knowledgeable community for some advice.

Experienced Trainers:

• Reflecting on Your First Training: What were some of the challenges you faced during your first training session? How did you handle those initial nerves and uncertainties?
• Current Strategies for Quality Training: How have your teaching methods evolved over time? What strategies do you now employ to ensure that your training sessions are engaging and effective?

Thank you in advance for your support! ?

 

[Tilley IT Training]

Hello everyone,

I will be stepping into the role of a CompTIA trainer for the first time next month! With 15 years of experience in IT infrastructure, I’m passionate about networking and cybersecurity, and I’m excited about the opportunity to guide others on their certification journeys.

However, as with any new venture, I’m also a bit nervous and eager to ensure that I provide the best learning experience for my students. That's why I'm reaching out to this knowledgeable community for some advice.

Experienced Trainers:

• Reflecting on Your First Training: What were some of the challenges you faced during your first training session? How did you handle those initial nerves and uncertainties?
• Current Strategies for Quality Training: How have your teaching methods evolved over time? What strategies do you now employ to ensure that your training sessions are engaging and effective?

Thank you in advance for your support! ?

Reflecting on Your First Training:


When I first started training, particularly during my initial sessions as a Cybersecurity & Network Instructor faced several challenges. One of the main hurdles was adapting complex cybersecurity concepts into digestible, actionable skills for students. I was nervous about striking the right balance between technical depth and practical application.


To handle these initial uncertainties, I focused on thorough preparation. I spent extra time reviewing the curriculum and anticipating potential questions. I also reminded myself of my extensive IT leadership experience, which gave me confidence in my knowledge base. To manage nerves, I practiced deep breathing techniques before each session and reminded myself that my goal was to help students succeed, which helped shift my focus from self-doubt to student engagement.


Current Strategies for Quality Training:


Over time, my teaching methods have significantly evolved. I've moved from a more traditional lecture-style approach to a blended learning model that combines e-learning with hands-on labs. This shift has been incredibly effective – student engagement increased by 40%, and certification pass rates improved from 25% to 38% within the first semester of implementation.


Some key strategies I now employ include:

1. Real-world scenario integration: I redesigned the curriculum to include actual cybersecurity scenarios, which has increased student preparedness scores by 30%.
2. Data-driven assessment: I implemented a system to track student progress, allowing for early intervention with at-risk students. This reduced dropout rates by 15%.
3. Interactive learning: I use tools like Canvas LMS to create more engaging content and improve instructor efficiency by 25%.
4. Industry partnerships: I've established relationships with local IT companies, creating internship opportunities that have resulted in a 15% job placement rate for graduates.
5. Continuous improvement: I regularly seek feedback from students and adjust my methods accordingly. This has led to an increase in student satisfaction scores from 3.2 to 4.1 out of 5.
6. Personalized attention: With the data-driven approach, I can identify struggling students early and provide targeted support.

These strategies have not only made my training sessions more engaging and effective but have also significantly improved student outcomes in terms of certification pass rates and job placements.

 

[Ronald]

Reflecting on Your First Training:


When I first started training, particularly during my initial sessions as a Cybersecurity & Network Instructor faced several challenges. One of the main hurdles was adapting complex cybersecurity concepts into digestible, actionable skills for students. I was nervous about striking the right balance between technical depth and practical application.


To handle these initial uncertainties, I focused on thorough preparation. I spent extra time reviewing the curriculum and anticipating potential questions. I also reminded myself of my extensive IT leadership experience, which gave me confidence in my knowledge base. To manage nerves, I practiced deep breathing techniques before each session and reminded myself that my goal was to help students succeed, which helped shift my focus from self-doubt to student engagement.


Current Strategies for Quality Training:


Over time, my teaching methods have significantly evolved. I've moved from a more traditional lecture-style approach to a blended learning model that combines e-learning with hands-on labs. This shift has been incredibly effective – student engagement increased by 40%, and certification pass rates improved from 25% to 38% within the first semester of implementation.


Some key strategies I now employ include:

1. Real-world scenario integration: I redesigned the curriculum to include actual cybersecurity scenarios, which has increased student preparedness scores by 30%.
2. Data-driven assessment: I implemented a system to track student progress, allowing for early intervention with at-risk students. This reduced dropout rates by 15%.
3. Interactive learning: I use tools like Canvas LMS to create more engaging content and improve instructor efficiency by 25%.
4. Industry partnerships: I've established relationships with local IT companies, creating internship opportunities that have resulted in a 15% job placement rate for graduates.
5. Continuous improvement: I regularly seek feedback from students and adjust my methods accordingly. This has led to an increase in student satisfaction scores from 3.2 to 4.1 out of 5.
6. Personalized attention: With the data-driven approach, I can identify struggling students early and provide targeted support.

These strategies have not only made my training sessions more engaging and effective but have also significantly improved student outcomes in terms of certification pass rates and job placements.

Great insight, Don!

Thanks a ton for the awesome advice! Your journey from early challenges to amazing successes is really inspiring. I'm a bit nervous because it's my first training session, and my trainees are experienced IT professionals. I want to ensure I deliver high-quality training that meets their expectations.
I’m looking forward to trying out your strategies, especially using real-world scenarios and interactive learning. Your support means a lot to me, and I can’t wait to grow more as a trainer. Thanks again for everything!

 

[abiodun1991]

Hello everyone,

I will be stepping into the role of a CompTIA trainer for the first time next month! With 15 years of experience in IT infrastructure, I’m passionate about networking and cybersecurity, and I’m excited about the opportunity to guide others on their certification journeys.

However, as with any new venture, I’m also a bit nervous and eager to ensure that I provide the best learning experience for my students. That's why I'm reaching out to this knowledgeable community for some advice.

Experienced Trainers:

• Reflecting on Your First Training: What were some of the challenges you faced during your first training session? How did you handle those initial nerves and uncertainties?
• Current Strategies for Quality Training: How have your teaching methods evolved over time? What strategies do you now employ to ensure that your training sessions are engaging and effective?

Thank you in advance for your support! ?

This is an interesting adventure, Because you are impacting people life to become IT giant in future.

 

[Eugene]

I would say that I tried to please everyone in the beginning. Remember that they are there for you first and then you can be there for them as they need it. I also didn't know things in the beginning or how to word things so I practiced to myself and made instructor notes that I added to over the years. Roman wasn't built in a day, neither will your teaching and style. I have developed a way to make sure the student can get the word, definition, and ways it applies (If any). Most need hands on but you can turn them into visual learners overtime if you can show them things. Patience is the key, active listening, and being there role model even if they fail a cert the first time. They really do at times just need an ear to listen, they know what to do.

Also, don't rush the material, you always have tomorrow since some areas are going to be longer than others. So take it smooth and in complete thoughts.

Don't worry about reviews. I hate them honestly but I tell students to do them logically...not emotionally. They could just randomly put things and scores and it could just been for one thing. So you will have a student now and then that hates everything because of one thing you didn't do. I teach them all the same. Lord knows we all been there...lol. I give my all know matter the student. They helped me with a job and are trusting me to help them get a job or career change. So I do all I can.

After all is said and done, treat yourself to a dinner and pay for someone else's that night. Every two weeks I did that as a ritual to relax, let tension go, and not get burnt out always doing the same thing over and over again.

I hope this honestly helps anyone, just some ramblings off a young-old man...lol.

For my friends across the pound...cheers.

 

[abiodun1991]

I would say that I tried to please everyone in the beginning. Remember that they are there for you first and then you can be there for them as they need it. I also didn't know things in the beginning or how to word things so I practiced to myself and made instructor notes that I added to over the years. Roman wasn't built in a day, neither will your teaching and style. I have developed a way to make sure the student can get the word, definition, and ways it applies (If any). Most need hands on but you can turn them into visual learners overtime if you can show them things. Patience is the key, active listening, and being there role model even if they fail a cert the first time. They really do at times just need an ear to listen, they know what to do.

Also, don't rush the material, you always have tomorrow since some areas are going to be longer than others. So take it smooth and in complete thoughts.

Don't worry about reviews. I hate them honestly but I tell students to do them logically...not emotionally. They could just randomly put things and scores and it could just been for one thing. So you will have a student now and then that hates everything because of one thing you didn't do. I teach them all the same. Lord knows we all been there...lol. I give my all know matter the student. They helped me with a job and are trusting me to help them get a job or career change. So I do all I can.

After all is said and done, treat yourself to a dinner and pay for someone else's that night. Every two weeks I did that as a ritual to relax, let tension go, and not get burnt out always doing the same thing over and over again.

I hope this honestly helps anyone, just some ramblings off a young-old man...lol.

For my friends across the pound...cheers.

That method of teaching is ok

 

[Fanuel]

Hello everyone,

I will be stepping into the role of a CompTIA trainer for the first time next month! With 15 years of experience in IT infrastructure, I’m passionate about networking and cybersecurity, and I’m excited about the opportunity to guide others on their certification journeys.

However, as with any new venture, I’m also a bit nervous and eager to ensure that I provide the best learning experience for my students. That's why I'm reaching out to this knowledgeable community for some advice.

Experienced Trainers:

• Reflecting on Your First Training: What were some of the challenges you faced during your first training session? How did you handle those initial nerves and uncertainties?
• Current Strategies for Quality Training: How have your teaching methods evolved over time? What strategies do you now employ to ensure that your training sessions are engaging and effective?

Thank you in advance for your support! ?

Good move

 

[abiodun1991]

Good move

Yes good start

 

[Ronald]

I would say that I tried to please everyone in the beginning. Remember that they are there for you first and then you can be there for them as they need it. I also didn't know things in the beginning or how to word things so I practiced to myself and made instructor notes that I added to over the years. Roman wasn't built in a day, neither will your teaching and style. I have developed a way to make sure the student can get the word, definition, and ways it applies (If any). Most need hands on but you can turn them into visual learners overtime if you can show them things. Patience is the key, active listening, and being there role model even if they fail a cert the first time. They really do at times just need an ear to listen, they know what to do.

Also, don't rush the material, you always have tomorrow since some areas are going to be longer than others. So take it smooth and in complete thoughts.

Don't worry about reviews. I hate them honestly but I tell students to do them logically...not emotionally. They could just randomly put things and scores and it could just been for one thing. So you will have a student now and then that hates everything because of one thing you didn't do. I teach them all the same. Lord knows we all been there...lol. I give my all know matter the student. They helped me with a job and are trusting me to help them get a job or career change. So I do all I can.

After all is said and done, treat yourself to a dinner and pay for someone else's that night. Every two weeks I did that as a ritual to relax, let tension go, and not get burnt out always doing the same thing over and over again.

I hope this honestly helps anyone, just some ramblings off a young-old man...lol.

For my friends across the pound...cheers.

I appreciate your thoughts—this helps a lot. Thanks for sharing your experiences and advice!

 

[Eugene]

I appreciate your thoughts—this helps a lot. Thanks for sharing your experiences and advice!

Good to ask the question you did, I got burnt out so many times. Rather the same thing not happen to you.

 

[Trevor Chandler]

Hello everyone,

I will be stepping into the role of a CompTIA trainer for the first time next month! With 15 years of experience in IT infrastructure, I’m passionate about networking and cybersecurity, and I’m excited about the opportunity to guide others on their certification journeys.

However, as with any new venture, I’m also a bit nervous and eager to ensure that I provide the best learning experience for my students. That's why I'm reaching out to this knowledgeable community for some advice.

Experienced Trainers:

• Reflecting on Your First Training: What were some of the challenges you faced during your first training session? How did you handle those initial nerves and uncertainties?
• Current Strategies for Quality Training: How have your teaching methods evolved over time? What strategies do you now employ to ensure that your training sessions are engaging and effective?

Thank you in advance for your support! ?

Not sure which CompTIA course(s) you will be teaching, but I would encourage you to give the students a heavy dose of hands-on exposure - this goes exceptionally well with the theory!!! The hands-on activity also serves to break the monotony of just listening to blah-blah-blah. Just think about your own experiences as a learner. That's my 2 cents!

 

[abiodun1991]

Not sure which CompTIA course(s) you will be teaching, but I would encourage you to give the students a heavy dose of hands-on exposure - this goes exceptionally well with the theory!!! The hands-on activity also serves to break the monotony of just listening to blah-blah-blah. Just think about your own experiences as a learner. That's my 2 cents!

You are in the right place to learning new things concerning IT