One of the best descriptions of the breadth of knowledge a computer support technician needs is provided by CompTIA, a non-profit organization composed of computer-related companies (e.g. Hewett Packard, IBM, etc.). The CompTIA A+ certification is the industry standard for computer support technicians. Reading the exam objectives for its 220-701 (Essentials) and 220-702 (Practical) tests will help you understand what the expected qualifications are.
The variety of training methodologies range from self-study to a setting where a live instructor is present in a traditional classroom/laboratory. The range of costs vary accordingly, with self-study being the least expensive and classroom training generally being the most expensive. The method used is often controlled by budget constraints. However, a student's favored learning method should be an important consideration.
Learning modalities fall within three major categories. "Visual learners," learn by seeing. "Auditory learners," learn by hearing. "Kinesthetic/Tactile learners," learn by doing. The challenge in selecting the right teaching methodology is ascertaining just what type of learner you are. It is certainly worth the time and energy for you to take a simple learning modality test to determine which is your favored method of learning before spending money on a training method that won't work for you.
Self-study can be a challenge for all of us except those very few who tackle the learning chore as though it was a mountain to climb. Discipline, time management, and a driven attitude are all key characteristics of the successful self-study learner. This approach is especially challenging where the subject matter is foreign to the learner and, as in the case of learning the skills associated with being a computer service technician, where a whole new language of technical jargon faces the untrained learner. Key also is the selection of self-study resources. Answering questions such as "Is this study material too advanced for me?" can be challenging for a student who does not have a clear understanding of what needs to be learned.
Another challenge for someone following a self-study path is experiencing through doing (a clear need for the kinesthetic/tactile learner). A number of the books available for those choosing self-study include a lab component. Make sure you have the equipment on hand to do the labs (necessary hardware and software to create a small learning lab network).
The online training method has ballooned in popularity. Key to a successful experience in this type of training is the quality of the learning materials and the online student support. Just like self-study, this method requires that the student be motivated and complete the materials in a scheduled manner. Many of the online products have "virtual labs" that attempt to meet the needs of a kinesthetic/tactile learner. Quality of online content varies greatly, so it is important that you adequately research the training provider to determine whether the product provided meets your expectations.
The boot camp learning method is typically structured in a manner where an instructor presents materials in shortened time-frame (typically five days), and is designed to provide assistance in passing an industry certification exam. The cost of this training is viewed as expensive and is primarily used by working individuals with an intermediate understanding of the materials being presented who are seeking a focused teaching style designed to get them through the exam. This learning method is not for people who are not currently employed as a computer technician with a level of experience that suggests that the class is nothing more than a review course.
This approach works best for most students who have trouble keeping on task and need a more structured environment to complete a program of study. While often viewed as the most expensive method of training, that isn't necessarily the case. Look to your local community college as a source of classroom training that may be one of the least expensive paths to follow.
The downside of the traditional classroom approach is the length of time it takes to complete the course and the requirement that you dedicate specific times that you must be in class. The good news is that rather than attempt to pour a large quantity of materials into your brain in a short time, learning is at a slower pace, making it easier to digest.