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MOUSE Squad Certified Technician Modules

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MOUSE Squad Certified Technician modules are organized by Explorations, Activities and Quizzes. Explorations provide key content and skills for students to practice. These explorations can be self-guided, team-based or instructor-directed. Quizzes ensure that students understand key concepts, vocabulary and processes covered. Several activities serve as performance assessment opportunities. These assessments give students a chance to apply the knowledge and skills learned in the modules in a real world context.

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Module 1: Preparing for a Help Desk
  Exploration: Understanding MOUSE Squad
  • An Introduction to Technical Help Desks
  • What is MOUSE Squad and how does it Work?
  • Technician Skills Self Assessment
  • Goals, Roles and Certification
  Exploration: Team Building
  • What is a Team?
  • Becoming a Team Player
  Exploration: Finding the Answers You Need
  • MOUSE Squad eLearning
  • Becoming an Information Detective

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Module 2: MOUSE Methodology for Problem Solving & Troubleshooting
  Exploration: Basic Problem Solving
  • The Problem Solving Process
  • Problem Solving Game
  Exploration: Computer Troubleshooting
  • MOUSE Method for Troubleshooting Technical Problems
  • Getting Ready to Troubleshoot

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Module 3: Computers, Computer Users, & User Error
  Exploration: A Basic Understanding of Computer Technology
  • An Introduction to the Personal Computer
  • Personal Computer Basics
  Exploration: Computer Users and User Error
  • Computer Users
  • Common User Errors

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Module 4: Wired & Wireless: Networking and Computer Mechanics
  Exploration: Network Design
  • Computer Lab: A Network Mystery
    º Networking Resources: Network Basics
    º Networking Resources: Network Devices
    º Networking Resources: Network Topology
  • Network Design Project
  Exploration: Getting Inside the Network
  • Ports and Connections
    º Ports and Connections Resources: Background Information
    º Ports and Connections Resources: Inspecting Cables
  • Network Addressing
  • Getting Inside the Network: The Windows Command Prompt
  • Getting Inside the Network: The Mac Terminal
  • The Ping Utility

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Module 5: The Operating System and the Desktop
  Exploration: A Computer's Operating System
  • Introducing the Operating System: A Special Kind of Software
  • Clean Installations vs. Upgrades
  • Installing the Operating System
  • Installing the Operating System: Directions for Windows
  • Installing the Operating System: Direction for Macs
    [©2007 by MOUSE Inc. All rights reserved. Page 2 of 2]
  • Customizing the Desktop: Directions for Windows
  • Customizing the Desktop: Directions for Macs
  Exploration: Maintaining a Safe and Current Computer
  • Routine Maintenance

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Module 6: Configuration Basics: Hardware & Peripherals
  Exploration: Configuring a Computer
  • Part 1: Exploring the Control Panel (Windows/Mac)
  • Part 2: Network and Internet Configuration (Windows/Mac)
  • Part 2b: Wireless Connections (Windows/Mac)
  • Part 3: Hardware and Management (Windows/Mac)
  • Part 4: Configuring Printers (Windows/Mac)
  • Applying What You Have Learned

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Module 7: Software: Programs to Get the Job Done
  Exploration: Software
  • Installing and Removing End User Applications (for Windows/Macs)
  • An Exploration of Word Processing Software
  • An Exploration of Presentation Software
  • An Exploration of Spreadsheet Software

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Module 8: Cracking the Case: Computer Hardware
  Exploration: Computer Components
  • Hardware Specifications
  • The Component Parts
  Exploration: An Inside Look
  • Safety Guidelines
  • Hands on, Inside: Taking it Apart & Putting it Back Together

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Module 9: The Mobile Solution: Managing Mobile Labs and Carts
  Exploration: Understanding Laptops
  • What is a Laptop and How Does it Work?
  • How are Laptops Different than Desktops?
  Exploration: Basic Laptop Care
  • Basic Laptop Care
  • A Plan for Safe Laptop Use

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Module 10: The Talented & Trusted Technician
  Exploration: Running Your MOUSE Squad
  • Ticket Tracking and Ticket Requests
  • What Does Your Ticket Request System Look Like?
  • MOUSE Squad Rules of Operation
  Exploration: Effective Communication
  • What is Good Communication?
  • Games to Practice Communication
  Exploration: Becoming a Technician
  • Professional Etiquette
  • Earning Trust and Respect
  • The MOUSE Squad Pledge