Free Online Computer Repair Courses, Classes & Training

Overview of Free Online Computer Repair Courses

Knowledge of computer repair is a vital skill for anyone wishing to work as a computer repair or IT technician. Whether you are pursuing a career in computer repair or simply wish to gain experience solving everyday computer performance problems, many colleges and universities offer free computer repair courses for students at various levels of expertise. Though not all of these courses are geared specifically toward computer repair, each course can offer a solid framework on which to build a complete understanding of computer structure and operations of hardware and software, along with diagnosis, maintenance and repair. Most of the necessary study materials are provided for each course; however, some courses require additional materials in the form of textbooks or software programs. Read on to learn about three schools offering free online computer repair courses.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) offers several online courses designed to teach some fundamentals of computers, including computer design and construction, along with hardware and software skills. Materials provided to the student include lecture notes and/or video lectures, reading materials, assignments and quizzes. All courses are at the undergraduate level, though students should have a basic understanding of computers. Select courses require students to provide their own computer building materials or the purchase of a textbook. Students have the option to take the course with a registered account through MITx, but all materials can be accessed without an account through MIT's OpenCourseWare page. MIT's free computer courses include:

• Computation structures
• Computer system engineering

Carnegie Mellon University

Carnegie Mellon University offers several computer science courses through the Open Learning Initiative. These are beginner level courses that seek to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of computer operations, including basic maintenance, diagnosis and repair. Courses are designed to help prepare students for careers in computer repair or IT, and some will help prepare students for the CompTIA A+ Hardware certification exam. Many materials are provided, including interactive tutorials, video lectures and assignments. Students have the option to register for a free account with the Open Learning Initiative, but it is not required to access the courses. Carnegie Mellon University's computer courses include:

• PC hardware
• Cyber technology
• Mechatronics technology

Princeton University

Princeton University's Computer Science Department offers a course in computer architecture through Coursera. This is an advanced course designed for students with a strong foundational understanding of computers. Students will gain an in-depth understanding of the design and function of contemporary computing systems. They will learn to construct a computer microprocessor and will explore the best options for optimizing microprocessor performance. Students are required to register for a free Coursera account to access the course. All materials required are provided. Students will also have access to a weekly forum discussion where they may ask questions and obtain assistance from instructors and peers. The materials included with Princeton University's Computer Architecture course include:

• Video lectures
• Readings
• Problem sets (with solutions)
• Quizzes