Fellow Techs,
Unless I’m riding a fine-bred quarter horse named Daisy on a summer’s day in west Texas, you won’t see me “straddling” very often.
But that is exactly what I intend to do now – straddle the fence…
Because when it comes to preparing for any IT certification, everyone must choose between Instructor-Led and Self-Study training – and there are pros and cons to both…
These are big decisions especially because so much is riding on you passing the exam… new job opportunities, promotions, self-confidence – heck even career changes I’ve seen it all!
So I’ve compared the pros and cons of Instructor-Led vs Self-Study methods below, so no matter what method you choose, you’ll know what to expect.
Instructor-Led Training (Online/In-Person):
Pros:
- Structured Learning: Instructor-led training offers a well-organized curriculum, ensuring you cover all crucial topics systematically.
- Interactive Instruction: Live sessions provide opportunities for questions, clarifications, and discussions with instructors and peers.
- Live Practice Sessions: Hands-on exercises help you apply what you’ve learned in real-time.
- Community Support: Joining a group of like-minded individuals pursuing the same goals can be highly motivating and supportive.
Cons:
- Fixed Schedule: Scheduled classes may not be suitable for those with busy routines or irregular hours.
- Limited Flexibility: The rigid structure may not cater to different learning paces and preferences.
- Cost: High-quality instructor-led training can be quite expensive, often costing thousands of dollars.
Self-Study:
Pros:
- Flexibility: With self-study, you have the freedom to learn at your own pace and on your own schedule.
- Cost-Effective: Self-study materials are often more affordable or even free.
- Personalization: You can focus on the topics that matter most to you, without being tied to a set curriculum.
Cons:
- Lack of Interaction: Self-study can be isolating, lacking the engagement and support of instructors and peers.
- Accountability: Without external structure, it’s easy to procrastinate or lose motivation.
- Potential Gaps: You might miss essential concepts or not receive timely guidance when facing challenges.
See you around,
Mike
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