[Lincs] Resources for Learning Linux in Lincoln

[Phillip Taylor]

Hi Guys,

I want to start doing some certification so I can develop a more rounded
knowledge of Linux as well as using this certification as a stepping stone
to a more active Linux based job.

Ideally I want to do an RHCT and an RHCE. I was hoping someone could tell me
what resources are available for learning Linux in Lincoln(shire).

I think the general route taken by most who are accredited is to buy the
books online and then spend a massive amount of cash on a week long
intensive Linux course before sitting the exam. Generally I assume it's
something like this:
http://www.xpertise.co.uk/courses/course.aspx?pageID=5508

Is anyone teaching Linux based skills at the college or Uni because I can't
see any official courses on offer? It would be a real benefit to me if they
were. I prefer face to face learning than memorising books. I think
Thursdays meeting with the LUG is going to be interesting and it will of
course be great to get more people using Linux but I think there's a real
worth and real community value to build a LUG that actively has a roadmap
for developing local newbies into certified Linux admins. The LLUG already
has a band of Linux enthusiasts and we of course provide a good service by
encouraging non-users to switch to Linux but if the LLUG could provide a
good support framework for developing people like me (I.T. staff who
actively want to use Linux in a corporate environment) then I think it could
become a very popular group.

Before I continue let me say I'm not preaching or attempting to direct the
aims of the LLUG in any given direction. This is all just a suggestion
driven by my own desire to have a service like this. I'm in a position where
I feel the LUG could potentially help me. Here are some actual practical
ideas that I'm thinking of:

1) The LLUG's website would provide links and information on recommended
reading and books available from Amazon with 1 to 1 mappings between the
exams and the books which help you pass. An unofficial guide to attaining
the said qualification.

2) The LLUG could simplify and apply "local context" to information about
the courses. Where the closest place to sit an RHCT exam is, how much it
costs, how to get there from Lincoln etc.

3) Local members with the desired qualifications, Linux+, RHCE etc could
give informal seminars on the contents of the course, what to expect.
Perhaps a few could just give some lectures from a brief set of important
topics required for the exams. The same kind of format we're having on
Thursday but geared more on "explaining complicated topics" or "preparation
for the exams". I'm not talking about full college course of program on a
regular basis. But perhaps eventually ;-)

4) Informal online chats or face to face meetings between groups of members
where those in the area who want to the qualifications can meet up, test
each other. When I finish reading a book it's hard to know if i'm ready for
an exam on it. Group meet ups like that may prove insightful as to whether
you do have the knowledge to do it or if an area of knowledge your poor in
is going to let you down. Talking with other people about to sit an exam or
people who have just finished sitting the exam can offer help your
understanding of what's required.

5) Lists of local companies who actively using Linux and look for Linux
experienced professionals. It may even perhaps be interesting to find out
how much demand, if any, there is for Linux as an I.T. skill in
Lincolnshire.

Unfortunately everything I've said above sounds like really hard work but I
thought I'd say what I was thinking out loud and perhaps there are more
people who feel this way. People's who careers have stagnated and who want
to get back on track...or students, new to the area who are looking to take
some actual practical certification to go with their theory driven computer
science degrees. If we can engage companies in this and offer a service to
the local community I'm sure there is some money to be made! All you'd need
is the qualification already, powerpoint and a free evening for a few weeks.

Once again, any thoughts on this would be interesting and if you feel like
you'd benefit from the some of suggestions above why not let me know.

Thanks

Phillip Taylor
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