To become a computer technician, there are certain educational requirements. This professional usually possesses a bachelor's or associate's degree in computer science, computer engineering, electrical engineering and telecommunications. Some employers also recruit candidates with certificate courses in computer networking and hardware.
They have to often work in hectic schedule rushing to various calls and troubleshooting problems of many clients and customers. They have to carry all the necessary instruments required for troubleshooting the computers. They also carry the software CDs related to the diagnosis of the computer problems, testers, cables and connectors, anti-virus software, thumb drives, LAN wire connectors and other important software. Another important facet of the computer job description is that he must have good communication skills. A good knowledge in English helps them to deal with wide variety of people from different backgrounds. Patience and ability to focus on the job are necessary attributes for anybody aspiring to be a computer technician.
As such, there is no definite path to become a computer technician. Some start it as a hobby in the graduation years and move on to gain mastery in it and converting it into their professions. Some, on the other hand, traditionally follow it by taking educational degrees.
Salary
A computer technician earns nearly US $40,000 to US $65,000 annually. With advanced certifications and diplomas, he can command higher salaries. Students interested in becoming these technicians must possess aptitude to crack complex problems and solve them with logic and analysis.
VIII. Read the dialogue (Прочтите диалог).
On a Business Trip - A Presentation
Betsy: Hi Brian, this is Betsy. How are you doing?
Brian: I've just returned from the Head Office. The weather is great! Boston is a great city!
Betsy: Have you met Frank yet?
Brian: No, I haven't seen him yet. We have a meeting at 10 o'clock tomorrow morning. We are going to meet then.
Betsy: Have you made your presentation yet?
Brian: Yes, I made the presentation yesterday afternoon. I was very nervous, but everything went well.
Betsy: Has management given you any feedback yet?
Brian: Yes, I've already met with the sales director. We met immediately after the meeting and he was impressed with our work.
Betsy: That's great Brian. Congratulations! Have you visited any museums yet?
Brian: No, I'm afraid I haven't had any time yet. I hope to take a tour around town tomorrow.
Betsy: Well, I'm happy to hear that everything is going well. I'll talk to you soon.
Brian: Thanks for calling Betsy. Bye.
Betsy: Bye.
Translate the words into Russian (Переведите слова на русский язык):
to return Head Office
nervous management
feedback sales director
immediately to impress
congratulations to take a tour
Choose the appropriate answer (Выберите правильный ответ):
1. Where is Brian? 4. When he is going to meet Frank?
- Boston - at 10 o'clock tomorrow morning
- London - tomorrow afternoon
- Paris - at 7 o'clock tomorrow evening
2. Why is he there? 5. Why hasn't he visited any museums yet?
- on holiday - He hasn't had time.
- on business - He doesn't want to visit any museums.
- for a performance - He thinks Boston is boring.
3. Has he made the presentation yet?
- no
- yes
- doesn't say
IX. Read the text “Why I’m a programmer”. Write a short essay “Why I have decided to become a computer programmer” Use the text “Why I’m a programmer” and the questions below the text as a sample. (Прочтите текcт “Why I’m a Programmer”. Напишите небольшое сочинение на тему «Почему я решил стать программистом». Используйте текст и вопросы после текста в качестве примера).
Why I’m a Programmer
So why am I a programmer? My answer is “because I enjoy it”. Why do I enjoy it? There are a few reasons.
First, I enjoy problem solving – both on a micro and macro scale. Programming involves copious amounts of both. Figuring out the most efficient way to implement a feature or tracking down a bug in existing code are examples of small-scale problems that programmers solve. Figuring out software solutions for problems like personal bookkeeping or project funding are examples of the larger scale. Actually, my love of computers and programming grew out of that constant questioning of things, and the ability to actually make my own programs has become my passion.
Second, I enjoy creating. Programming is wonderful for this: it’s a medium that allows me to create something out of nothing. I’m not limited to physical constraints; if I can imagine it, I can create it.
Third, it’s a career. It’s an area that is in great demand these days and no doubt and probably will continue to be in demand for the foreseeable future. As such, it’s also an area that pays well. This does contribute to my enjoyment of programming.
I’d like to say some words about computer programmer’s responsibilities. Important responsibilities include:
- writing, testing, designing and maintaining the programs that allow computers to function properly;
- updating, repairing and modifying existing computer programs to make them operate as efficiently as possible;
- converting software designs into conventional programming languages such as COBOL, Prolog, Java, C++ or ACTOR.
In conclusion, the tech industry has become one of the most progressive industries in a number of areas where it matters. My employer’s healthcare benefits are amazing. Flexible schedules, liberal parental leave policies, and other such benefits are commonplace. Having this kind of work environment and social support structure improves my overall quality of life.
Questions:
1. Does programming involve problem solving?
2. What programming languages do programmers use?
3. What is the best part of being a computer programmer? The worst? The most challenging?
4. What's the salary range in this career?
5. What is a typical day in the life of a computer programmer?
6. Is it easy to find a job as a computer programmer?
7. What skills do you think young programmers need for the job?
8. What improvement does computer programming give for human life?
9. What are future prospects of computer programming?
TERM I