This course aims to provide students with skills and training that will enable them to pursue a career in the computer industry and in particular, in the areas of networking with particular emphasis on ‘Mobile’ Technologies. Information Technology is one of the fastest-growing sectors in the Irish Economy, with particular growth in the field of computer-based services and software development. The versatility of this course will enable students to enter any field eg. IT, Finance, Education or the Public Service. Successful students will be awarded a QQI Level 5 Certificate in Computer Systems & Networks. All students complete a two week work experience placement as part of their studies on this course.
This is a one-year full time course and runs from September to May.
Sean Arthur Putz
Introduce yourself, what is your name, what age are you, where are you from, where were you before this course?
My name is Sean, I’m 21 years old and I’m from Westport. I’m a student in the Computer Systems and Networks Level 5 course; before starting this course, I was in Youthreach Ballinrobe, where I completed my Leaving Certificate Applied.
Why did you pick this course, why did you pick CCFE?
I’ve always had an interest in computers, particularly programming. CCFE seemed like the most accessible place to do a computer related PLC course.
How would rate the facilities in CCFE, the computer rooms, the canteen, the carpark.
Well, we didn’t spend much time in the college at all due to COVID. Still, in my short time there everything seemed decent, albeit I was never made aware of a canteen, nor did we have access to the carpark.
What modules did you enjoy, what modules did you not enjoy?
I really enjoyed the Programming module. It’s really satisfying to put together programs, and I wish the course was more focused on that particular module. Although our teacher was lovely, I didn’t enjoy work experience; because we weren’t able to get work experience placements this year, our classes consisted of mostly paperwork and filling things out.
What was the best event this year, why?
The best even this year was certainly the Christmas quiz, hosted by Kitty Ganley. Most of our class got together in a voice call to watch / participate and although we didn’t do all that great in the quiz, we had a great laugh talking to each other and commenting on the event itself. It was a really fun time, and I hope I get along as well with other classes as I did with this one.
Did you enjoy online learning?
There are some good sides and bad sides. I don’t have to get up and drive to the college early in the morning, instead I can just crawl out of bed and be ready for class. It is isolating though. I certainly didn’t get to know my class and teachers nearly as well as I would have in person.
How were the staff, how were your classmates? Every member of staff was patient and kind with us, even when we maybe didn’t deserve it. I’m looking forward to meeting them in person next year.My classmates this year were great. I got along with a good few of them despite the circumstances; some of us even played Among Us. I hope some of them like me do the Level 6 for this course.
There are no fees to study this course.
Learning how to maintain computer equipment and solve common problems relating to computer hardware.
Learning how to support the operation of typical computer networks and be able to assist in implementing and maintaining common network configurations.
Learn how to develop apps and utilise and maintain mainstream mobile technologies and associated devices.
How to establish effective ICT security and compliance policies and their management.
How to design, write and test structured computer programs using modularisation techniques appropriate to the programming language(s) used.
How to configure, utilise and maintain mainstream computer operating systems.
Complete a 2 week hands on placement in an area of your choosing related to Computer Systems & Networking.
Develop skills needed in the workplace including IT skills, team working skills as well as research and writing skills.
Learn how to apply a broad range of mathematical skills and tools to a wide variety of contexts especially in software development and/working with computer systems and networks.