Customized Linux Classes
Over the last year we have been working with a large company that is moving all of their servers from Microsoft to Linux, specifically CentOS. This is an international company that is leveraging their growth by cutting costs on the server operations. Cost cutting was not the only reason they selected CentOS as the operating system, it was also based on stability and security. Down time for this company, as with most companies, is not an option, therefore stability is a major consideration. When approached by this company they had specific requirements for training all of their administrators and engineers. Basically, their entire server support staff were without Linux knowledge with little or no experience. No doubt moving an international company to Linux in one year is a major undertaking.
We took the specific requirements that they had for their administrators and built a curriculum from information that we had and based on special needs they requested. At that point we created an evaluation class held as a virtual class that students could log in and interact in the class with an instructor using VOIP and web conferencing tools. This process allows an instructor to talk, interact, demonstrate and actually access student desktops to help them with the labs.
Evaluation Class
The initial class of 25 included those who would adjust the content so the company could allow students to be trained in 30 hours instead of the standard 40 for Linux Server Administration. This allowed for two, 3 hour sessions each day with a 2 hour break in between. A unique way of providing training to provide optimum learning for students. We provided a 500 page manual for each student as well as 200 videos for students to review online if they needed additional help during or after the class. Each student had a virtual CentOS server provided to them so they could use a CentOS server during the class on their Windows desktop. The instructor discussed a topic, illustrated it and then had students perform one of 175 labs that we provided for CentOS. The focus was on instruction followed by application and interaction with the student.
Additional Linux Classes
At this point we have been providing monthly classes for students in the organization for almost a year. Classes have been live Linux training on location and live Linus training using the virtual desktop. This kind of flexibility allows the company to choose the delivery method that best works for the students. It also provides flexibility because of the International aspect of this company as they have offices most major world countries.
The live online training provided access for students in any country and times for classes were modified so that it was more convenient for students. Our instructors started virtual classes day and night providing any time request made by the company. All of these factors in Linux training demonstrate that live training can be provided internationally with live classrooms on a virtual desktop or instructors can physically be where a company needs training, meeting the needs of companies migrating to Linux.
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