Cisco

Scope and Sequence: CCNA Exploration
Last Updated April 7, 2011

Target Audience
The Cisco® CCNA® Exploration curriculum is designed for Cisco Networking Academy® students who are seeking entry-level information and communication technology (ICT) skills. CCNA Exploration provides an integrated and comprehensive coverage of networking topics, from fundamentals to advanced applications andservices, while providing opportunities for hands-on practical experience and soft-skills development. While primarily designed for postsecondary institutions, the curriculum is appropriate for students at many education levels if they have the required skills, and if the instructional approach complements their learning style and educational goals.

Prerequisites
CCNA Exploration is designed forstudents with advanced problem solving and analytical skills, such as students pursuing degrees in engineering, information technology, math, or science. Students are expected to know binary math and understand the concept of algorithms. CCNA Exploration is composed of four courses: Network Fundamentals, Routing Protocols and Concepts, LAN Switching and Wireless, and Accessing the WAN. NetworkFundamentals is the first course and it has no prerequisites. It is a prerequisite for the other three courses. Routing Protocols and Concepts is the preferred second course in the sequence, but variations are possible as shown in Figure 1. LAN Switching and Wireless can be taught before Routing Protocols and Concepts, or concurrently. Network Fundamentals, Routing Protocols and Concepts, and LANSwitching and Wireless are all prerequisites for Accessing the WAN.
Figure 1. CCNA Exploration Course Delivery Options
Network Fundamentals Routing Protocols and Concepts LAN Switching and Wireless Accessing the WAN Network Fundamentals LAN Switching and Wireless Routing Protocols and Concepts Accessing the WAN

Network Fundamentals Routing Protocols and Concepts LAN Switching and WirelessAccessing the WAN

© 2011 Cisco Systems, Inc. All rights reserved. This document is Cisco Public Information.

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Target Certifications
After completing all four courses of CCNA Exploration, students will be prepared to take the Cisco CCNA certification exam.

Curriculum Description
CCNA Exploration teaches networking based on technology, covering networking concepts using atop-down, theoretical, and integrated approach – from network applications to the network protocols and services provided to those applications by the lower layers of the network. CCNA Exploration includes the following features:
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Students learn the basics of routing, switching, and advanced technologies to prepare for Cisco CCNA certification and entry-level networking careers The curriculumdiscusses networking concepts in depth and uses language that allows for integration with engineering concepts, providing a deep, theoretical understanding of networking concepts for experienced learners with advanced problem-solving and analytical skills.

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Courses emphasize critical thinking, problem solving, collaboration, and the practical application of skills Rich multimediacontent, including Flash-based interactive activities, videos, games, and quizzes, addresses a variety of learning styles and help stimulate learning and increase knowledge retention Hands-on labs and Packet Tracer simulation-based learning activities help students develop critical thinking and complex problem solving skills Innovative assessments provide immediate feedback to support the evaluation ofknowledge and acquired skills Provides students with the skills needed to succeed in networking-related degree programs

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Curriculum Goals and Objectives
This curriculum provides students with the skills needed to succeed in networking-related degree programs and helps them prepare for CCNA certification. It also helps students develop the skills necessary to fulfill the job...