Computer Systems Servicing NC II – Tesda Course Module

TESDA TRAINING REGULATIONS FOR COMPUTER SYSTEMS SERVICING NC II

The TESDA COURSE in COMPUTER SYSTEMS SERVICING NC II consists of competencies that must possess to enable to install and configure computers systems, set-up computer networks and servers and to maintain and repair computer systems and networks.

This Qualification is packaged from the competency map of the Electronics Industry

A student who has achieved this TESDA Course in COMPUTER SYSTEMS SERVICING NC II is competent to be:

• Computer Assembler
• Computer Service Technician
• Network Technician
• Computer Maintenance Technician

COMPUTER SYSTEMS SERVICING NC II – TRAINING AND REGULATION MODULE

Course Title: COMPUTER SYSTEMS SERVICING
Level: NC II

Nominal Training Duration :

(Basic Competency) 40 Hours
(Common Competency) 80 Hours
(Core Competency) 160 Hours

Total Duration: 280 Hours

This course is designed to develop & enhance the knowledge, skills, & attitudes of a Computer Systems Service Technician, in accordance with industry standards. It covers the basic and common competencies in addition to the core competencies such as to install and configure computers systems, set-up computer networks and servers and to maintain and repair computer systems and networks.

TRAINEE ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Trainees or students wishing to gain entry into this course should possess the following requirements:

• Can communicate either oral and written;
• Must pass the trainability/aptitude test.

COMPETENCIES REQUIRED IN COMPUTER SYSTEMS SERVICING NC II

This units of competency comprising this qualification include Basic, Common, Elective and Core Competencies.

To obtain this TESDA course in COMPUTER SYSTEMS SERVICING NC II, all units prescribed for this qualification must be achieved.

These units of competency comprising this qualification include the following:

This section gives the details and contents of the units of competency required in COMPUTER SYSTEMS SERVICING NC II. These units of competency are categorized into basic, common and core competencies.

CORE COMPETENCIES

UNIT TITLE : INSTALL AND CONFIGURE COMPUTER SYSTEMS
UNIT CODE : ELC724331

This unit covers the outcomes required in installing and configuring desktop and workstation computers systems. It consists of competencies to assemble computer hardware, install operating system and drivers for peripherals/devices, and install application software as well as to conduct testing and documentation.

1. Assemble computer hardware
   • Unit assembly is planned and prepared to ensure OH&S policies and procedures are followed in accordance with systems requirements
   • Materials necessary to complete the work are identified and obtained in accordance with established procedures and checked against systems requirements
   • Tools, equipment and testing devices needed to carry out the installation work are obtained in accordance with established procedures and checked for correct operation and safety
   • Computer hardware is assembled in accordance with established procedures and systems requirements
   • Basic-input-output-system (BIOS) configuration is performed in accordance with hardware requirements.
2. Prepare installer
   • Portable bootable devices are created in accordance with software manufacturer instruction
   • Customized installers are prepared in accordance with software utilization guide and end user agreement.
   • Installation of portable applications are carried out in accordance with software user guide and software license
3. Install operating system and drivers for peripherals/devices
   • Operating system (OS) is installed in accordance with established installation procedures and to comply with end-user requirements
   • Peripherals/devices drivers are installed and configured in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions and/or OS installation procedures.
   • OS and drivers updates/patches are accessed and installed in accordance with manufacturer’s recommendations and requirements
   • On-going checks of the quality of the work are undertaken in accordance with established procedures
4. Install application software
   • Application software are installed based on software installation guides, end-user requirements and software license agreement
   • Variation to application software installation is carried out in accordance to customer/client requirements
   • Software updates are accessed and installed in accordance with manufacturer’s recommendations and requirements
5. Conduct testing and documentation
   • Devices / systems and/or installation is tested to determine whether it conforms to requirements
   • Stress test is conducted to ensure reliability of equipment in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions and system requirements
   • 5S and 3Rs are followed according to environmental policies
   • Documentation in relation to the test is forwarded to appropriate personnel and/or authority in accordance with requirements

UNIT TITLE : SET-UP COMPUTER NETWORKS
UNIT CODE : ELC724332

This unit covers the outcomes required in setting-up computers networks for LANs and small-office home-office (SOHO) systems. It consists of competencies to install network cables, set network configuration, set router/Wi-Fi/ wireless access point/repeater configuration as well as to inspect and test the configured computer networks.

1. Install network cables
   • Cable routes are determined and planned in accordance with network design and actual installation site.
   • Network materials necessary to complete the work are identified and obtained in accordance with established procedures and checked against systems requirements
   • Tools, equipment and testing devices needed to carry out the installation work are obtained in accordance with established procedures and checked for correct operation and safety
   • Appropriate personal protective equipment is used and OHS policies and procedures are followed
   • Copper cable splicing is performed based on Electronic Industries Alliance/Telecommunications Industry Association (EIA/TIA) standards
   • Network cables and cable raceway are installed in accordance with established procedures and installation requirements
   • Installation work is performed and is checked to ensure no unnecessary damage has occurred and complies with requirements
   • OHS standards and 5S principles are followed according to enterprise requirements
   • Excess components and materials are disposed of based on WEEE directives and 3Rs waste management program.
2. Set network configuration
   • Network connectivity of each terminal is checked in accordance with network design.
   • Any fault or problem in the network system is diagnosed and remedied in line with the standard operating procedures.
   • Network interface card (NIC) settings are configured in accordance with network design.
   • Communication checking between terminals are carried out in accordance with OS network configuration guides
   • Unplanned events or conditions are responded to in accordance with established procedures
3. Set router/Wi-Fi/ wireless access point/repeater configuration
   • Client Device systems settings are configured in accordance with manufacturers’ instructions and end user preferences
   • Local area network (LAN) port is configured in accordance with manufacturers’ instructions and network design
   • Wide area network (WAN) port is configured in accordance with manufacturers’ instructions and network design
   • Wireless settings are configured in accordance manufacturers’ instructions, network design and end-user preferences
   • Security/Firewall/Advance settings are configured in accordance with manufacturers’ instructions and end user preferences
4. Inspect and test the configured computer networks
   • Final inspections are undertaken to ensure that the configuration done on the computer networks conforms with the manufacturer’s instruction/manual
   • Computer networks are checked to ensure safe operation.
   • Reports are prepared/completed according to company requirements.

UNIT TITLE : SET-UP COMPUTER SERVERS
UNIT CODE : ELC724333

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes needed to set-up computer servers for LANs and SOHO systems. It consists of competencies to set-up user access and configures network services as well as to perform testing, documentation and pre-deployment procedures.

1. Set-up user access
   • User folder is created in accordance with network operating system (NOS) features
   • User access level is configured based on NOS features and established network access policies/end-user requirements.
   • Security check is performed in accordance with established network access policies/end-user requirements.
2. Configure network services
   • Normal functions of server are checked in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions
   • Required modules /add-ons are installed/updated based on NOS installation procedures
   • Network services to be configured are confirmed based on user/system requirements
   • Operation of network services are checked based on user/system requirements
   • Unplanned events or conditions are responded to in accordance with established procedures
3. Perform testing, documentation and pre-deployment procedures
   • Pre-deployment procedures is undertaken based on enterprise policies and procedures
   • Operation and security check are undertaken based on end-user requirements
   • Reports are prepared/completed according to enterprise policies and procedures.

UNIT TITLE : MAINTAIN AND REPAIR COMPUTER SYSTEMS AND NETWORKS
UNIT CODE : ELC724334

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes needed to maintain and service computer systems and networks.

1. Plan and prepare for maintenance and repair
   • Maintenance and/or Diagnosis of faults is planned and prepared in line with job requirements.
   • Tools, equipment and testing devices needed for the maintenance are obtained and checked for correct operation and safety
   • Materials necessary to complete the work are obtained in accordance with established procedures and checked against job requirements.
   • OHS policies and procedures are followed in line with job requirements.
   • Computer systems and networks for maintenance are checked against job/service order or instructions and specifications.
2. Maintain computer systems and networks
   • Appropriate personal protective equipment is used in line with standard procedures.
   • Normal function of computer systems and networks are checked in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions.
   • Scheduled/periodic maintenance is performed in accordance with manufacturer’s requirements.
   • Where necessary, needed repairs/replacements are made in accordance with established procedures.
   • Unplanned events or conditions are responded to in accordance with established procedures
3. Diagnose faults of computer systems and networks
   • Appropriate personal protective equipment is used in line with standard procedures.
   • Faults or problems in the computer systems and networks are diagnosed according to requirements and in line with the standard procedures.
   • Contingency measures are managed and implemented in accordance with established procedures
   • Unplanned events or conditions are responded to in accordance with established procedures
4. Rectify/correct defects in computer systems and networks
5. Appropriate personal protective equipment is used in line with standard procedures.
6. Defective components or parts are replaced or corrected without damage to the surrounding environment or services
7. Adjustments, if necessary are made in accordance with established procedures
8. Unplanned events or conditions are responded to in accordance with established procedures.
9. Inspect and test the computer systems and networks
   • Final inspections are undertaken to ensure that the testing conducted on the device conforms with the manufacturer’s instruction/manual
   • Computer systems and networks are checked/tested to ensure safe operation.
   • OHS standards and 5S principles are followed according to enterprise policies
   • Work site is cleaned and cleared of all debris and left in safe condition in accordance with company procedures
   • Excess components and materials are disposed of based on WEEE directives and 3Rs waste management program.
   • Report is prepared and completed according to company requirements

COMMON COMPETENCIES

UNIT TITLE : APPLY QUALITY STANDARDS
UNIT CODE : ELC315202

This unit covers the knowledge, skills, attitudes and values needed to apply quality standards in the workplace. The unit also includes the application of relevant safety procedures and regulations, organization procedures and customer requirements.

1. Assess quality of received materials
   • Work instruction is obtained and work is carried out in accordance with standard operating procedures.
   • Received materials are checked against workplace standards and specifications.
   • Faulty materials related to work are identified and isolated.
   • Faults and any identified causes are recorded and/or reported to the supervisor concerned in accordance with workplace procedures.
   • Faulty materials are replaced in accordance with workplace procedures.
2. Assess own work
   • Documentation relative to quality within the company is identified and used.
   • Completed work is checked against workplace standards relevant to the task undertaken.
   • Errors are identified and isolated.
   • Information on the quality and other indicators of production performance are recorded in accordance with workplace procedures.
   • In cases of deviations from specific quality standards, causes are documented and reported in accordance with the workplace’ s standards operating procedures.
3. Engage in quality improvement
   • Process improvement procedures are participated in relative to workplace assignment.
   • Work is carried out in accordance with process improvement procedures.
   • Performance of operation or quality of product of service to ensure customer satisfaction is monitored.

UNIT TITLE : PERFORM COMPUTER OPERATIONS
UNIT CODE : ELC311203

This unit covers the knowledge, skills, attitudes and values needed to perform computer operations which include inputting, accessing, producing and transferring data using the appropriate hardware and software.

1. Plan and prepare for task to be taken undertaken
   • Requirements of task are determined in accordance with the required output.
   • Appropriate hardware and software are selected according to task assigned and required outcome.
   • Task is planned to ensure that OH & S guidelines and procedures are followed.
   • Client -specific guidelines and procedures are followed.
   • Required data security guidelines are applied in accordance with existing procedures.
2. Input data into computer
   • Data are entered into the computer using appropriate program/application in accordance with company procedures.
   • Accuracy of information is checked and information is saved in accordance with standard operating procedures.
   • Inputted data is stored in storage media according to requirements.
   • Work is performed within ergonomic guidelines.
3. Access information using computer
   • Correct program/application is selected based on job requirements.
   • Program/application containing the information required is accessed according to company procedures.
   • Desktop icons are correctly selected, opened and closed for navigation purposes.
   • Keyboard techniques are carried out in line with OH & S requirements for safe use of keyboards.
4. Produce output/data using computer system
5. Entered data are processed using appropriate software commands.
6. Data are printed out as required using computer hardware /peripheral devices in accordance with standard operating procedures.
7. Files and data are transferred between compatible systems using computer software, hardware/peripheral devices in accordance with standard operating procedures.
8. Use basic functions of a www-browser to locate information
   • Information requirements for internet search are established.
   • Browser is launched.
   • Search engine is loaded.
   • Appropriate search criteria/or URL of site is entered.
   • Relevant links are followed to locate required information.
   • Useful pages are bookmarked or printed as required.
9. Maintain computer equipment and systems
   • Procedures for ensuring security of data, including regular back-ups and virus checks are implemented in accordance with standard operating procedures.
   • Basic file maintenance procedures are implemented in line with the standards operating procedures.

UNIT TITLE : PERFORM MENSURATION AND CALCULATION
UNIT CODE : ELC311201

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes and values needed identify, care, handle and use measuring instruments

1. Select measuring instruments
   • Object or component to be measured is identified
   • Correct specifications are obtained from relevant source
   • Measuring tools are selected in line with job requirements
2. Carry out measurements and calculation
   • Appropriate measuring instrument is selected to achieve required outcome
   • Accurate measurements are obtained for job
   • Calculation needed to complete work tasks are performed using the four basic process of addition (+), subtraction (-), multiplication (x), and division (/)
   • Calculation involving fractions, percentages and mixed numbers are used to complete workplace tasks.
   • Numerical computation is self-checked and corrected for accuracy
   • Instruments are read to the limit of accuracy of the tool.
3. Maintain measuring instruments
   • Measuring instruments are not dropped to avoid damage
   • Measuring instruments are cleaned before and after using.
   • Proper storage of instruments undertaken according to manufacturer’s specifications and standard operating procedures.

UNIT OF COMPETENCY : PREPARE AND INTERPRET TECHNICAL DRAWING
UNIT CODE : ELC311202

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes and values needed to prepare/interpret diagrams, engineering abbreviation and drawings, symbols, dimension.

1. Identify different kinds of technical drawings
   • Correct technical drawing is selected according to job requirements.
   • Technical drawings are segregated in accordance with the types and kinds of drawings
2. Interpret technical drawing
   • Components, assemblies or objects are recognized as required.
   • Dimensions of the key features of the objects depicted in the drawing are correctly identified.
   • Symbols used in the drawing are identified and interpreted correctly.
   • Drawing is checked and validated against job requirements or equipment in accordance with standard operating procedures.
3. Prepare/make changes to electrical/electronic schematics and drawings
   • Electrical/electronic schematic is drawn and correctly identified.
   • Correct drawing is identified, equipment are selected and used in accordance with job requirements.
4. Store technical drawings and equipment /instruments
   • Care and maintenance of drawings are undertaken according to company procedures.
   • Technical drawings are recorded and inventory is prepared in accordance with company procedures.
   • Proper storage of instruments is undertaken according to company procedures.

UNIT OF COMPETENCY: USE HAND TOOLS
UNIT CODE : ELC724201

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes on the safe use, handling and maintenance of tools.

1. Plan and prepare for tasks to be undertaken
   • Tasks to be undertaken are properly identified
   • Appropriate hand tools are identified and selected according to the task requirements
2. Prepare hand tools
   • Appropriate hand tools are checked for proper operation and safety
   • Unsafe or faulty tools are identified and marked for repair according to standard company procedure
3. Use appropriate hand tools and test equipment
   • Tools are used according to tasks undertaken
   • All safety procedures in using tools are observed at all times and appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) are used
   • Malfunctions, unplanned or unusual events are reported to the supervisor
4. Maintain hand tools
   • Tools are not dropped to avoid damage
   • Routine maintenance of tools undertaken according to standard operational procedures, principles and techniques
   • Tools are stored safely in appropriate locations in accordance with manufacturer’s specifications or standard operating procedures

UNIT TITLE : TERMINATE AND CONNECT ELECTRICAL WIRING AND ELECTRONICS CIRCUIT
UNIT CODE : ELC724202

This unit covers the knowledge, skills, (and) attitudes and values needed to terminate and connect electrical wiring and electronic circuits

1. Plan and prepare for termination/connection of electrical wiring/electronics circuits
   • Materials are checked according to specifications and tasks
   • Appropriate tools and equipment are selected according to tasks requirements
   • Task is planned to ensure OH & S guidelines and procedures are followed
   • Electrical wiring/electronic circuits are correctly prepared for connecting/termination in accordance with instructions and work site procedures
2. Terminate/connect electrical wiring/electronic circuits
   • Safety procedures in using tools are observed at all times and appropriate personal protective equipment are used
   • All work undertaken safely in accordance with the workplace and standard procedures
   • Appropriate range of methods in termination/connection are used according to specifications, manufacturer’s requirements and safety
   • Correct sequence of operation is followed
   • Accessories used are adjusted, if necessary
   • Confirm termination/connection undertaken successfully in accordance with job specification
3. Test termination/connections of electrical wiring/electronics circuits
   • Testing of all completed termination/ connections of electric wiring/electronic circuits is conducted for compliance with specifications and regulations using appropriate procedures and equipment
   • Wiring and circuits are checked using specified testing procedures
   • Unplanned events or conditions are responded to in accordance with established procedures

UNIT OF COMPETENCY: TEST ELECTRONIC COMPONENTS
UNIT CODE : ELC724205

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to test electronic components. It includes competencies in determining the criteria for testing electronics components, planning an approach for component testing, testing the components and evaluating the testing process.

1. Determine criteria for testing electronics components
   • Work instructions are obtained and clarified based on job order or client requirements
   • Responsible person is consulted for effective and proper work coordination
   • Data sheets/Application notes are obtained and interpreted based on manufacturer’s specifications
   • Testing criteria are defined to ensure that components meet technical and quality requirements
   • Document and communicate testing criteria to relevant personnel
2. Plan an approach for component testing
   • Various testing methods are Identified based on types of electronic components
   • Characteristics and appropriateness of testing methods to be used during development and on completion is determined
   • Testing methods are considered/selected in relation to appropriate testing strategy
   • Plan for testing components is developed at specified points during development and on completion
   • Required test & measuring instruments and tools are prepared and checked in accordance with established procedures
   • Records system is established to document testing results, including problems and faults
3. Test components
   • Testing methods are applied to ensure that products meet creative, production and technical requirements
   • Problems and faults detected by testing are recorded and remedial steps taken in records system is documented
   • Problems and faults detected during testing are resolved in accordance with agreed project or industry practice
   • Evaluate final products against the previously determined criteria
   • Testing process is documented and summarized evaluation report is submitted to relevant personnel
4. Evaluate the testing process
   • Testing methods that were successful and those that led to difficulties are identified based on industry standards
   • Testing process and records system are evaluated based on standard procedures
   • Test results/findings are documented for subsequent components testing.

BASIC COMPETENCIES

UNIT OF COMPETENCY : PARTICIPATE IN WORKPLACE COMMUNICATION
UNIT CODE : 500311105

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes required to gather, interpret and convey information in response to workplace requirements.

1. Obtain and convey workplace information
   • Specific and relevant information is accessed from appropriate sources
   • Effective questioning, active listening and speaking skills are used together and convey information
   • Appropriate medium is used to transfer information and ideas
   • Appropriate non- verbal communication is used
   • Appropriate lines of communication with supervisors and colleagues are identified and followed
   • Defined workplace procedures for the location and storage of information are used
   • Personal interaction is carried out clearly and concisely
2. Participate in workplace meetings and discussions
   • Team meetings are at ended on time
   • Own opinions are clear expressed and those of others are listened to without interruption
   • Meeting inputs are consistent with the meeting purpose and established protocols
   • Workplace interactions are conducted in a courteous manner
   • Questions about simple routine workplace procedures and matters concerning working conditions of employment are asked and responded to.
   • Meetings outcomes are interpreted and implemented
3. Complete relevant work related documents
   • Range of forms relating to conditions of employment are completed accurately and legibly
   • Workplace data is recorded on standard workplace forms and documents
   • Basic mathematical processes are used for routine calculations
   • Errors in recording information on forms/documents are identified and properly acted upon
   • Reporting requirements to supervisor are completed according to organizational guidelines

UNIT OF COMPETENCY : WORK IN TEAM ENVIRONMENT
UNIT CODE : 500311106

This unit covers the skills, knowledge and attitudes to identify role and responsibility as a member of a team.

1. Describe team role and scope
   • The role and objective of the team is identified from available sources of information
   • Team parameters, reporting relationships and responsibilities are identified from team discussions and appropriate external sources.
2. Identify own role and responsibility within team
   • Individual role and responsibilities within the team environment are identified.
   • Roles and responsibility of other team members are identified and recognized.
   • Reporting relationships within team and external to team are identified.
3. Work as a team member
   • Effective and appropriate forms of communications used and interactions undertaken with team members who contribute to known team activities and objectives.
   • Effective and appropriate contributions made to complement team activities and objectives, based on individual skills and competencies and workplace context.
   • Observed protocols in reporting using standard operating procedures.
   • Contribute to the development of team work plans based on an understanding of team’s role and objectives and individual competencies of the members.

UNIT OF COMPETENCY : PRACTICE CAREER PROFESSIONALISM
UNIT CODE : 500311107

This unit covers the knowledge, skills and attitudes in promoting career growth and advancement.

1. Integrate personal objectives with organizational goals
   • Personal growth and work plans are pursued towards improving the qualifications set for the profession
   • Intra- and interpersonal relationships is are maintained in the course of managing oneself based on performance evaluation
   • Commitment to the organization and its goal is demonstrated in the performance of duties
2. Set and meet work priorities
   • Competing demands are prioritized to achieve personal, team and organizational goals and objectives.
   • Resources are utilized efficiently and effectively to manage work priorities and commitments
   • Practices along economic use and maintenance of equipment and facilities are followed as per established procedures
3. Maintain professional growth and development
   • Trainings and career opportunities are identified and availed of based on job requirements
   • Recognitions are sought/received and demonstrated as proof of career advancement
   • Licenses and/or certifications relevant to job and career are obtained and renewed

UNIT OF COMPETENCY : PRACTICE  OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY PROCEDURES
UNIT CODE : 500311108

This unit covers the outcomes required to comply with regulatory and organizational requirements for occupational health and safety.

1. Identify hazards and risks
   • Safety regulations and workplace safety and hazard control practices and procedures are clarified and explained based on organization procedures
   • Hazards/risks in the workplace and their corresponding indicators are identified to minimize or eliminate risk to co-workers, workplace and environment in accordance with organization procedures
   • Contingency measures during workplace accidents, fire and other emergencies are recognized and established in accordance with organization procedures
2. Evaluate hazards and risks
   • Terms of maximum tolerable limits which when exceeded will result in harm or damage are identified based on threshold limit values (TLV)
   • Effects of the hazards are determined
   • OHS issues and/or concerns and identified safety hazards are reported to designated personnel in accordance with workplace requirements and relevant workplace OHS legislation
3. Control hazards and risks
   • Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) procedures for controlling hazards/risks in workplace are consistently
     followed
   • Procedures for dealing with workplace accidents, fire and emergencies are followed in accordance with organization OHS policies
   • Personal protective equipment (PPE) is correctly used in accordance with organization OHS procedures and practices
   • Appropriate assistance is provided in the event of a workplace emergency in accordance with established organization protocol
4. Maintain OHS awareness
   • Emergency-related drills and trainings are participated in as per established organization guidelines and procedures
   • OHS personal records are completed and updated in accordance with workplace requirements

DEFINITION OF TERMS

GENERAL

• Certification – is the process of verifying and validating the competencies of a person through assessment
• Certificate of Competency (COC) – is a certification issued to individuals who pass the assessment for a single unit or cluster of units of competency
• Common Competencies – are the skills and knowledge needed by all people working in a particular industry
• Competency – is the possession and application of knowledge, skills and attitudes to perform work activities to the standard expected in the workplace
• Competency Assessment – is the process of collecting evidence and making judgments on whether competency has been achieved
• Competency Standard (CS) – is the industry-determined specification of competencies required for effective work performance
• Context of Assessment – refers to the place where assessment is to be conducted or carried out
• Core Competencies – are the specific skills and knowledge needed in a particular area of work – industry sector/occupation/job role
• Critical aspects of competency – refers to the evidence that is essential for successful performance of the unit of competency
• Elective Competencies – are the additional skills and knowledge required by the individual or enterprise for work
• Elements – are the building blocks of a unit of competency. They describe in outcome terms the functions that a person performs in the workplace.
• Evidence Guide – is a component of the unit of competency that defines or identifies the evidences required to determine the competence of the individual. It provides information on critical aspects of competency, underpinning knowledge, underpinning skills, resource implications, assessment method and context of assessment
• Level – refers to the category of skills and knowledge required to do a job
• Method of Assessment – refers to the ways of collecting evidence and when, evidence should be collected
• National Certificate (NC) – is a certification issued to individuals who achieve all the required units of competency for a national qualification defined under the Training Regulations. NCs are aligned to specific levels within the PTQF
• Performance Criteria – are evaluative statements that specify what is to be assessed and the required level of  performance
• Qualification – is a cluster of units of competencies that meets job roles  and is significant in the workplace. It is also a certification awarded to a person on successful completion of a course in recognition of having demonstrated competencies in an industry sector
• Range of Variables – describes the circumstances or context in which the work is to be performed
• Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) – is the acknowledgement of an individual’s skills, knowledge and attitudes gained from life and work experiences outside registered training programs
• Resource Implications – refers to the resources needed for the successful performance of the work activity described in the unit of competency. It includes work environment and conditions, materials, tools and equipment
• Basic Competencies – are the skills and knowledge that everyone needs for work
• Training Regulations (TR) – refers to the document promulgated and issued by TESDA consisting of competency standards, national qualifications and training guidelines for specific sectors/occupations. The TR serves as basis for establishment of qualification and certification under the PTQF. It also serves as guide for development of competency-based curricula and instructional materials including registration of TVET programs offered by TVET providers
• Underpinning Knowledge – refers to the competency that involves in applying knowledge to perform work activities. It includes specific knowledge that is essential to the performance of the competency
• Underpinning Skills – refers to the list of the skills needed to achieve the elements and performance criteria in the unit of competency. It includes generic and industry specific skills
• Unit of Competency – is a component of the competency standards stating a specific key function or role in a particular job or occupation; it is the smallest component of achievement that can be assessed and certified under the PTQF

SECTOR SPECIFIC

• Computer System – The complete computer made up of the CPU, memory and related electronics (main cabinet), all the peripheral devices connected to it and its operating system. Computer systems fall into two broad divisions: clients and servers. Client machines fall into three categories from low to high end: laptop, desktop and workstation. Servers range from small to large: low-end servers, midrange servers and mainframes.
• Computer Network, or simply a Network, is a collection of computers and other hardware interconnected by communication channels that allow sharing of resources and information. Where at least one process in one device is able to send/receive data to/from at least one process residing in a remote device, then the two devices are said to be in a network. It is a group of devices connected to each other. Networks may be classified into a wide variety of characteristics, such as the medium used to transport the data, communications protocol used, scale, topology, benefit, and organizational scope.
• Configuration – The makeup of a system. To “configure” is to choose options in order to create a custom system. “Configurability” is a system’s ability to be changed or customized.
• Connector – Any plug and socket that links two devices together. Although taken for granted and rarely in the limelight, connectors are a huge industry, and the quality of these components is more critical than most people would imagine. When not designed or constructed properly, they often become the weakest element in an electronic system.
• Display Adapter – A plug-in card in a desktop computer that converts the images created in the computer to the electronic signals required by the monitor. It determines the maximum resolution, refresh rate and number of colors that can be displayed, which the monitor must also be able to support. On many PC motherboards, the display adapter circuits are built into the chipset, and an AGP or PCI card is not required.
• Expansion Board – A printed circuit board that plugs into an expansion slot and extends the computer’s capability to control a peripheral device. All the boards (cards) that plug into a computer’s bus are expansion boards, such as display adapters, disk controllers, network adapters and sound cards.
• Expansion Bus – An input/output bus typically comprised of a series of slots on the motherboard. Expansion boards (cards) are plugged into the bus. ISA and PCI are the common expansion buses in a PC.
• Graphical User Interface – A graphics-based user interface that incorporates movable windows, icons and a mouse. The ability to resize application windows and change style and size of fonts are the significant advantages of a GUI vs. a character-based interface. GUIs have become the standard way users interact with a computer, and the major GUIs are the Windows and Mac interfaces along with Motif for Unix and the GNOME and KDE interfaces for Linux.
• LAN – a local area network (LAN) is a computer network that interconnects computers in a limited area such as a home, school, computer laboratory, or office building using network media. The defining characteristics of LANs, in contrast to wide area networks (WANs), include their usually higher data-transfer rates, smaller geographic area, and lack of a need for leased telecommunication lines.
• Motherboard – Also called the “system board,” it is the main printed circuit board in an electronic device, which contains sockets that accept additional boards. In a desktop computer, the motherboard contains the CPU, chipset, PCI bus slots, AGP slot, memory sockets and controller circuits for the keyboard, mouse, disks and printer. It may also have built-in controllers for modem, sound, display and network, obviating the need to plug in a card.
• Networks – see Computer Network.
• Operating System – The master control program that runs the computer. The first program loaded when the computer is turned on, its main part, the “kernel,” resides in memory at all times. The operating system sets the standards for all application programs that run in the computer. The applications “talk to” the operating system for all user interfaces and file management operations.
• Peripheral -Any hardware device connected to a computer, such as a monitor, keyboard, printer, disk, tape, graphics tablet, scanner, joy stick, paddle or mouse
• Server – A computer system in a network that is shared by multiple users. Servers come in all sizes from x86-based PCs to IBM mainframes. A server may have a keyboard, monitor and mouse directly attached, or one keyboard, monitor and mouse may connect to any number of servers via a KVM switch. Servers may be also be accessed only through a network connection as well.
• Sound Card – Also called a “sound board” or “audio adapter,” it is a computer expansion board that records and plays back sound, providing inputs from a microphone or other sound source and outputs to speakers or an external amplifier. The de facto standard for sound card compatibility in PCs is Creative Labs’ Sound Blaster.
• User Interface – All graphics based today, the user interface includes the windows, menus and method of interaction between you and the computer. Prior to the Mac, Windows and Motif (UNIX) interfaces, all interaction was based on commands entered by the user. Operating systems may support optional interfaces and allow a new shell, or skin, to be used instead.
• Virus – Software used to infect a computer. After the virus code is written, it is buried within an existing program. Once that program is executed, the virus code is activated and attaches copies of itself to other programs in the system. Infected programs copy the virus to other programs.
• WAN – a Wide Area Network (WAN) is a network that covers a broad area (i.e., any telecommunications network that links across metropolitan, regional, or national boundaries) using private or public network transports. Business and government entities utilize WANs to relay data among employees, clients, buyers, and suppliers from various geographical locations. In essence, this mode of telecommunication allows a business to effectively carry out its daily function regardless of location
• WEEE Directives – the prevention of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE), and in addition, the reuse, recycling and other forms of recovery of such wastes so as to reduce the disposal of waste. It also seeks to improve the environmental performance of all operators involved in the life cycle of electrical and electronic equipment, e.g. producers, distributors and consumers and in particular those operators directly involved in the treatment of waste electrical and electronic equipment.