[If the subject line is ambiguous, please consult your Monty Python.]
DISCLAIMER: I am involved in several commercial efforts for paper
scenarios and virtual racks. I think the issues raised here, however,
are of value to the community.
-----------
Certification (and network learning that is not strictly
certification related) involve scenarios for practice. It's my
belief, however, that not all scenarios are the same. I'm not
referring here to their quality, but to my belief that there are
several types of scenarios that help in different aspects of the
learning process. I'd really like feedback from the community if this
thinking makes sense.
1. Technology familiarization scenarios
2. Complex problem recognition & troubleshooting tests
3. Specific exam preparation (e.g., CCIE lab time management)
4. Non-certification (e.g., practice for real-world multihoming without
CCIE restrictions, server interactions, etc.)
If you were obtaining scenarios over a period of time, what would be
your priorities?
Type 1
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1a) This can reasonably begin with a preconfigured 1-3 router CCNA
level system,
that just allows CLI practice and the use of show/debug commands.
1b) The next level can be anywhere from CCNA to CCIE level, but focusing on
a single protocol/technology. Other technologies are used only to
support
the primary objective. For example, my upcoming CertZone X.25 scenario
starts by establishing OSPF routing (configuration given) over a serial
line with HDLC encapsulation, then walking the student through the
issues
in converting to LAP-B and X.25 encapsulation.
A basic such scenario gives the objectives and possibly some criteria
for successful configuration, but doesn't give step-by-step guidance,
illustrate common errors, and include troubleshooting.
1c) A more structured presentation, typically introducing common errors and
showing how they are discovered and corrected on the way to a correct
solution.
1d) Compare-and-contrast multipart scenarios, such as an OSPF scenario that
explores several different aspects of partitioning and virtual links
(e.g., connecting OSPF Area 0.0.0.0 across a non-OSPF domain, fixing
an OSPF partition with a virtual link through a nonzero area, then
examining the other application of virtual links: connecting
noncontiguous
areas to the backbone)
Type 2
------
This is much more like an actual Cisco test experience, but giving
the flavor of mentoring rather than time pressure. For example, you
might be given an address plan, and told to implement OSPF in part of
the network and RIP in another.
You'd first get the individual protocols working, perhaps being
guided through some common errors and how to spot them.
Next, you'd set up redistribution, again with advice on typical problems.
Once you have the redistributed routing working, you'd systematically
add other features (e.g., DLSW+, performance management), again with
guidance at each step.
Type 3
------
Tests here are closer to the published descriptions and concerns of
the CCIE lab, and include features such as a visible clock, and the
option to choose to get a working configuration for some sub-part,
losing the points but being able to go to the next part.
In Pythonesque terms, Type 3 scenarios teach you to deal with the
troll, but with the issue being the clock rather than the velocity of
the sparrow.
Type 4
------
My main focus here has been exterior routing for both multihomed
enterprises and ISPs, but reflecting best current practice rather
than some of the artificialities of the CCIE lab (e.g., encouraging
rather than forbidding appropriate use of static and default routes).
The first is Cisco CCIE certification practice, both practice for the
written and the lab exam. The second is to prepare for Cisco
specializations involving technologies such as voice and security.
The third is basic familiarization for the CCIE.
We can support training organizations, resellers, and enterprises in
staff training aimed at any of these objectives. In addition, we are
here to help in quests not directly associated with certification,
such as advanced technology training (e.g., carrier-level BGP and
MPS). Other related quests are familiarize enterprises with their
planned multihomed and VPN configurations, and do final checkout in a
controlled environment.
Message Posted at:
http://www.groupstudy.com/form/read.php?f=7&i=29085&t=29085
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