UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS AT MONTICELLO

COLLEGE OF TECHNOLOGY-CROSSETT
ANNUAL ASSESSMENT REPORT 2011-2012

Computer Maintenance/
Revised 3/29/13

Networking
General Information UAM-C T C
UAM-CTC offers post-secondary training to help
individuals gain the knowledge and skills needed to

Computer
enter and advance in their selected career. In all
programs, you will be trained in the skills which

Maintenance/
employers say you will need in that particular occu-
pational area. The staff works closely with business
and industry to keep our programs responsive to the

Networking
changing workplace.

Each of our programs covers both the theory (class

work) and the practical (lab work) aspects of the
field. And, of course, you will be trained to use the
needed equipment for the occupation you choose.
Program Information 2011-2012
An applicant who does not have a high school diplo-
ma or equivalency will be given an opportunity to
work toward earning the Arkansas High School
Diploma (GED) free of charge.

Admissions requirements include:

(1) a completed application for admission,
(2) college entrance exam scores, and
(3) official academic transcripts

Requirements mandated by law:

(1) proof of immunization against measles and
rubella for applicants born on or after January 1,
1957,
(2) a selective service statement. Students
who are required to register with selective service
must sign a statement attesting that they have reg-
istered or are exempt from doing so. This statement
appears on the application for admission and must
be completed by all male applicants, and
(3) proof of tuberculin skin testing within the
last six months for foreign-born students.
“Training for Jobs of Today
Because of the high demands of some career areas, The Computer Maintenance/Networking and Tomorrow”
our programs frequently have more applicants than Program can lead to an Associate of
openings. Fair and equitable guidelines for admit- Applied Science Degree by completing
ting students have been established and are avail- UAM College of Technology-Crossett
additional electives and general education
able as a supplemental handout. Reapplication will 1326 Highway 52, W
courses. Find out more about this option by
be required after one year, and free refresher cours- Crossett, AR 71635
visiting, calling, or accessing the UAM web
es are available for all applicants. Telephone: 870-364-6414 or 1-866-323-3384
site at www.uamont.edu.
Fax: 870-364-5707
You may access specific admissions requirements Web Site: www.uamont.edu
at www.uamont.edu or any UAM campus.
Appendix A-1
Computer Maintenance/ Graduation Requirements

Networking The “Digital Divide” is a term used (Suggested Schedule)

with increasing frequency by educa-
The Computer Maintenance/Networking Program pre- tors, policymakers, and government Fall Semester Credit Hours
pares individuals for entering occupations in the infor- MAT 2214 Advanced Industrial Mathematics 4
officials to acknowledge that the
mation technology (IT) field that involve troubleshoot- CMP 1012 Tech Network Servers 2
ing, repair, and maintenance of personal computers Internet and its associated technolo- CMP 1024 Tech Computer Maint/Core Hardware 4
(PCs). Skills are developed by hands-on practice in gies are contributing factors in CFA 1103 Tech Computer Fundamentals 3
electronic circuit testing, computer assembly, comput- defining the “haves” and the “have (or higher level computer course)
er upgrades and configurations, and computer net- nots” of this millennium. CMP 2074 Tech Cisco CENT I or 4
works. Networking classes provide opportunities for CMP 1034 Tech Networking I
students to design, build, and maintain computer inter- Cisco Systems, the worldwide leader in networking for the Exit: Computer Repair and Networking 17
networks. Internet, has a vision to transform every aspect of our Certificate of Proficiency
Successful completion of the Cisco System classes (I lives -- from the way we do business to how we view enter-
and II) will allow students to take the national exam for Spring Semester
tainment, education, and government. This vision, which
certifying as a CCENT (Cisco Certified Entry Network CMP 1053 Tech Network Security 3
Technician). Students also prepare for industry stan- is helping to build bridges across the Digital Divide, is CMP 1604 Tech Operating Systems 4
dard certifications, including partial certification of the realized in part through the Cisco Networking Academy CMP 1504 Tech Fundamentals of Voice & Data 4
Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA™), and A+. Program. Cabling
CMP 1704 Tech Fundamentals of Web Design 4
Student Learning Outcomes COM 1203 Technical Communications 3
Cisco Networking Academy Program (or higher level composition course)
Successful completers of this program will be able to:
install, maintain, and troubleshoot computer hardware Summer I
l set up, maintain, and troubleshoot networks CMP 1802 Tech Computer Peripheral 2
l set up, install, maintain and troubleshoot Microsoft- Maintenance
based desktop and server operating systems CMP 1092 Tech Project Management 2
l create and maintain physical cabling infrastructure of COM 1102 Employability Skills/Ethics 2
a network
l install and maintain physical cabling infrastructure of Building Bridges Across the Digital Divide Exit:Computer Maintenance/Networking
a network The Cisco Networking Academy is an e-learn- Technical Certificate 41
l apply knowledge, skills, and abilities to obtain the ing model that delivers Web-based educational
CompTIA A+ certification content, online testing, student performance
l apply knowledge, skills, and abilities to obtain the tracking, hands-on labs, and instructor training The University of Arkansas at Monticello is committed
CompTIA Servers+ certification and support. With a curriculum developed by to providing educational opportunities to all qualified
l apply knowledge, skills, and abilities to obtain the
education and networking experts, the students and employment opportunities to all persons,
Cisco Certified Entry-level Network Technician regardless of their economic or social status, and will
Networking Academy program is offered at edu-
(CCENT) certification. not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion,
cational programs around the world. It demon-
creed, gender, ethnic or national origin, disability, age
strates a highly successful alliance among or any legally protected class. The Office of Special
The program length for a full-time student in Computer
Cisco Systems, educators, governments, lead- Student Services has been designated to coordinate
Maintenance/Networking is two (2) semesters and one ing technology companies , and nonprofit efforts to comply with all laws and regulations applica-
(1) summer term. organizations as it prepares graduates for the ble to qualified individuals with disabilities, as required
demands and opportunities of the “New by Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the
Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. Inquiries con-
Economy.”
Program Costs: cerning the application of all federal laws and regula-
Full Computer Maintenance Program tions regarding discrimination should be directed to the
Human Relations Officer, Officer of Finance and
Total Tuition & Fees $3,170 Computer maintenance technicians are among the top Administration, Babin Business Center, (870) 460-
Books & Supplies (Approximately) $1,105 ten most-needed workers in the world. 1021.
Appendix A-2
 COMPUTER MAINTENANCE/NETWORKING

Program Description

The Computer Maintenance/Networking program prepares individuals for entering occupations in the information
technology (IT) field that involve troubleshooting, repair, and maintenance of personal computers (PCs). Skills are
developed by hands-on practice in electronic circuit testing, computer assembly, computer upgrades and
configurations and computer networks. Networking classes provide opportunities for students to design, build, and
maintain computer inter-networks.

Successful completion of the Cisco system classes (I and II) will allow students to take the national exam for
certifying as a CCENT (Cisco Certified Entry Network Technician). Students also prepare for industry standard
certifications, including partial certification for the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA™) and A+.

Student Learning Outcomes

Successful completers of this program will be able to:

● install, maintain, and troubleshoot computer hardware.
● setup, maintain, and troubleshoot networks.
● setup, install, maintain and troubleshoot Microsoft-based desktop and server operating systems.
● create and maintain a secure network.
● Install and maintain physical cabling infrastructure of a network.
● apply knowledge, skills, and abilities to obtain the CompTIA A+ certification.
● apply knowledge, skills, and abilities to obtain the CompTIA Servers+ certification.
● apply knowledge, skills, and abilities to obtain the Cisco Certified Entry-level Network Technician certification.

The program length for a full-time student in Computer Maintenance/Networking is two (2) semesters and one (1)
summer term. The program costs are approximately $3,170 for tuition and fees and approximately $1,105 for books
and supplies.

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
(Suggested Schedule)
Fall Semester Credit Hours

MAT 2214 Advanced Industrial Mathematics 4

CMP 1012 Tech Network Servers 2
CMP 1024 Tech Computer Maintenance/Core Hardware 4
CFA 1103 Tech Computer Fundamentals (or higher-level computer course) 3
CMP 2074 Tech Cisco CENT I OR 4
CMP 1034 Tech Networking I
Exit: Computer Repair and Networking 17
Certificate of Proficiency

Spring Semester

CMP 1053 Tech Network Security 3

CMP 1064 Tech Operating Systems 4
CMP 1504 Tech Fundamentals of Voice and Data Cabling 4
CMP 2084 Tech Cisco CENT II OR 4
CMP 1044 Tech Networking II
COM 1203 Technical Communications (or higher-level composition course) 3

Summer I Term

CMP 1802 Tech Computer Peripheral Maintenance 2

COM 1102 Employability Skills/Ethics 2
CMP 1092 Tech Project Management 2
Exit: Computer Maintenance/Networking 41
Technical Certificate

Appendix B
 University of Arkansas at Monticello
College of Technology Crossett
Computer Maintenance and Networking Program
2011-2012 Plan of Improvement for the Council on Occupational Education

The Computer Maintenance and Networking (CMN) Program is a post-secondary

technical certificate program available to high school graduates or persons with a General
Educational Development (GED) credential. Students may enroll on a full- or part-time
basis. Students who are enrolled full-time can expect to complete the program within two
semesters and one summer term.

The Computer Maintenance and Networking program provides training required in

today’s Information Technology career field, including computer repair and maintenance,
networking fundamentals and installation and maintenance of networking devices,
distribution cabling methods, network security, and operating systems. In addition, this
program offers individualized advising, online learning through the Cisco Net Academy,
course challenge opportunities, certified faculty (who has obtained the CMN Certificate
of Proficiency, Technical Certificate, AAS, and the Cisco Instructor Certification) and
software certification preparation.

Computer Maintenance and Networking students receive computer training using

Windows and Linux operating systems. Students learn to operate various computers and
networking devices found in contemporary Information Technology environments.
English and communication courses developed specifically for business are integral parts
of the program through the Advanced Industrial Math and Tech Communications
courses.

After an in-depth review, the Computer Maintenance/Networking program is meeting its

stated objectives.

Overall Program Objectives and Content

I. Objectives

1. Are the objectives of the program clearly stated?

• Yes, they are stated in the Computer Maintenance and
Networking Program Description that can be found at
http://www.uamont.edu/uamctc/pdf/cmn.pdf and
other publications.

2. Are the stated objectives relevant in relation to current

expectations of the occupation for which students are being
educated?
• Yes. Comp TIA certifications are world-renowned and
certify that the recipient is proficient in a particular area of
training. Cisco continues to be one of the world leaders in

Appendix E –1
 networking innovation and helped form the networking
standards that are still used today.

3. Are program completers asked for their evaluation of the

program after placement in the occupation is acquired?
• Yes. Completers are contacted six months to a year after
they have graduated for a follow-up evaluation.

4. What do completer evaluations reveal about the program’s

success/deficiencies in the preparation of students for
employment in the occupation?
• A study revealed that most students voted that labs and
hands-on activities were helpful or satisfactory.

5. Does a summary of completer evaluations indicate success in

the program’s ability to meet its objectives as written, or does
it reveal areas of concern?
• For the students who complete the program, yes. For
students who don’t complete the program, but end up working
in the field anyway, yes.

II. Content

6. Does program content provide students with adequate

preparation for success in the occupation with respect to:
theories and concepts, specific knowledge and skills, hands-
on practice, laboratory exercises, and work-based activities?
• Students receive a well-rounded education based in theories
and concepts and coupled with hands-on exercise and real-life
scenarios. These are provided through the use of the latest
materials available from the industry’s leading certification
providers. This, coupled with the job experience of the
instructor, provides students with more-than-adequate
preparation for success.

7. Are the elements mentioned above current in terms of

practices and expectations of the occupation?
• Yes, based on discussions with our advisory committee, we
believe our program stays abreast of industry trends and
innovations.

8. After reviewing current student and program completer

evaluations, are there areas of concerns identified that relate
to program content?
• My only concern is that the student population is not
available to offer more advanced courses that could further

Appendix E –2
 benefit the students in the Information Technology field. As for
job placement in an entry-level position, the program is
sufficient.

III. Instructional Materials/Equipment

9. Are materials and equipment used in the instructional

processes of the program relevant to each course within the
program?
• Yes.

10. Are materials and equipment current in their content, nature,

and use in the industry?
• Yes.

11. Are there adequate quantities of materials and equipment to

support the number of students in the program?
• Yes.

12. Is equipment maintained/repaired properly to support

learning activities of students?
• Yes.

13. After reviewing current student and program completer

evaluations, are there areas of concerns identified that relate
to instructional materials and/or equipment used by the
program?
• Technology is constantly changing, and new software and
equipment are being developed and implemented every day in
the Information Technology career field. Obtaining funds to
stay current with the latest technology can prove challenging.

IV. Completion Rate Issues

1. Are the admission requirements stringent enough for the

demands of the program?
• No. I believe this program requires a certain degree of
prerequisites; however, the university currently has an open
enrollment policy in place.

2. Do prospective employers of the program’s completers

require a high school diploma or equivalency certificate as a
condition for employment? If so, does the program require a
high school diploma or equivalency certificate for enrollment in
or completion of the program?

Appendix E –3
 • From my research into current job descriptions, employers
require their applicants to have at least a technical certificate in
the related field to be considered for the job. UAM-CTC requires
students entering this program to have acquired their high school
diploma or equivalency certificate. There is a high school diploma
equivalency program currently located on campus.

3. Are the qualifications of the program’s instructional staff

adequate? If not, what are the specific areas of concern?

The instructor completed this program in May 2008 and obtained

the CMN Certificate of Proficiency, CMN Technical Certificate,
and an AAS. The instructor also has obtained the Cisco Instructor
Certification. The instructor has a cumulative of three years’
experience in the field and will pursue additional certifications in
2012.

4. Is the performance of the program’s instruction staff

adequate? If not, what specific areas need improvement?
• Yes. The instructor is highly motivated and cares deeply for the
success of the students.

5. Does the review of student evaluations of instructional

personnel reveal areas of concern?
• The instructor strives to improve upon any methods that will
help the students to succeed and achieve their goals. All student
evaluations are read and taken into careful consideration. Although
the instructor has limited experience in the education field, he is
pursuing further professional development.

V. Placement Rate Issues

1. Are there adequate employment opportunities for completers

of the program in your community?
• No. However, there is a surrounding area of about a 50-75 mile
radius that offers a moderate amount of opportunities in this field.

2. Are job placement staff and faculty effectively involved with

businesses in the community that could assist with job placement
opportunities for completers?
• Yes. The program’s advisory committee and the school’s
partnership with the local workforce center provide connections
with the business communities in our area.

Appendix E –4
 3. Does the institution provide itself adequate time for
placement of completers and the collection of follow up data for
placement statistics?
• Yes. We gather information within an 18-month window.

4. Does a review of program evaluations collected from the

follow-up of completers, non-completers, and employers of
completers identify any weaknesses in the program as they relate
to employment opportunities or preparedness?
• The college is located in a small rural area where IT jobs are
few and far between. We encourage students to keep their options
open and look outside the area as well for employment
opportunities.

Issues of Concern

The admission requirements are not stringent enough for the demands of the program. UAM
undergraduate admission requirements include Entrance Exam Scores (ACT, SAT, ASSET, or
COMPASS); however, the University has an open enrollment policy.

In the spring of 2010, the Computer Maintenance and Networking instructor abruptly terminated
his employment with the university without finishing the semester. This caused some students to
lose confidence in the program and withdraw.

Recommendations

Placement and follow-up information is used to evaluate and improve the quality of program
outcomes as evidenced in minutes of advisory committee meetings, discussions between
administrators, and recommendations made to curriculum and standards committees regarding
course/program revisions. Four recommendations are:

 Academic Advising
o With an open enrollment policy, academic advising must play an
important part in placing students. The UAM-CTC counselor, Student
Services Coordinator, and Computer Maintenance/Networking adviser
work closely with students to provide career counseling. Additionally,
the Special Student Services (ADA) Coordinator manages efforts to
comply with all laws and regulations applicable to qualified
individuals with disabilities.

 Retention Specialist and Arkansas Career Pathways Initiative

o Use of the Retention Specialist throughout each semester will help
students stay in class and succeed in these courses. The Arkansas
Career Pathways Initiative is designed to provide support services and
direct financial assistance to parents who want to increase their
education and employability. Career Pathways participants have access

Appendix E –5
 to advising to assist with career and educational decisions, assistance
finding jobs while in school and careers upon graduation, extra
instruction for building successful academic and employment skills,
tutoring, and easy access to a computer lab for doing homework and
improving computer skills. Eligible students are encouraged to
participate in the Arkansas Career Pathways Initiative by completing
the certification available to them. The students may earn an Arkansas
Career Readiness Certificate.

 Evaluation of Computer Maintenance and Networking Curriculum

o One recommendation is to work with the other campuses and revamp
the Computer Maintenance/Networking program. All CMN courses
are offered on the Crossett campus. The CMN program is administered
and supervised by the Vice Chancellor the Assistant Vice Chancellor/
Supervisor of Instruction. The CMN program has been approved
through the UAM Academic Council, UAM Curriculum and Standards
Committee, UAM Technical Programs’ Curriculum and Standards
Committee, UAM Assembly, Arkansas Department of Higher
Education, and the UAM Board of Trustees.

 Reevaluation of Completion Rates

o Our recommendation is to use a three-year average of completion
rates. Enrollment, completion rates, and placement rates vary from
year to year. An overall three-year view gives a better idea of the
effectiveness of the program instead of one year’s effectiveness.

Appendix E –6