iti 10 April 2025
Computer Operator and Programming Assistant

ITI Computer Operator and Programming Assistant (COPA) Trade Syllabus 

The ITI Computer Operator and Programming Assistant (COPA) trade is a one-year vocational training program under the Craftsman Training Scheme (CTS), governed by the National Council for Vocational Training (NCVT). This course trains students in computer operations, office software applications, data entry, and basic programming, preparing them for roles such as computer operators, data entry operators, and programming assistants in various industries. The syllabus combines theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and employability training to meet the needs of modern IT-enabled workplaces.

Course Overview

  • Duration: 1 year (2 semesters, each 6 months)
  • NSQF Level: Level 4
  • Eligibility: Minimum 10th grade pass (or equivalent)
  • Objective: To develop skilled professionals capable of operating computers, managing office software, performing data entry tasks, and assisting in programming activities efficiently.

Detailed Syllabus Breakdown (English)

1. Trade Theory (Theoretical Knowledge)

Covers foundational concepts in computer operations and programming.

  • Semester 1
    • Introduction to Computers
      • Evolution and importance of computers in daily life and industry.
      • Roles and responsibilities of a Computer Operator and Programming Assistant.
      • Basic computer organization: hardware (CPU, memory, I/O devices) and software (system, application).
    • Safety Practices
      • Workplace safety: electrical hazards, ergonomic practices.
      • Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) like anti-static wristbands.
      • Data backup and recovery basics to prevent data loss.
    • Operating Systems
      • Introduction to operating systems: Windows, Linux (basic).
      • File management: creating, renaming, deleting files/folders.
      • System utilities: disk cleanup, defragmentation, task manager.
    • Office Automation Tools
      • Word processing (e.g., MS Word): formatting, tables, mail merge.
      • Spreadsheets (e.g., MS Excel): formulas, charts, data analysis.
      • Presentations (e.g., MS PowerPoint): slide creation, animations, transitions.
    • Internet and Networking Basics
      • Internet fundamentals: browsers, search engines, email.
      • Basic networking concepts: LAN, WAN, IP addressing.
      • Cloud storage and online collaboration tools (e.g., Google Drive).
  • Semester 2
    • Advanced Office Applications
      • Database management (e.g., MS Access): tables, queries, forms, reports.
      • Advanced Excel: pivot tables, macros, VLOOKUP/HLOOKUP.
      • Desktop publishing basics (e.g., Adobe PageMaker or similar tools).
    • Programming Fundamentals
      • Introduction to programming: algorithms, flowcharts, pseudocode.
      • Programming languages: overview of C, C++, Python (basics).
      • Variables, data types, operators, and control structures (if-else, loops).
    • Web Technologies
      • HTML: tags, attributes, basic webpage design.
      • CSS: styling, layouts, formatting webpages.
      • Introduction to JavaScript: basic scripting for interactivity.
    • Accounting Software
      • Basics of computerized accounting (e.g., Tally): ledger creation, voucher entry, balance sheet.
      • Inventory management and GST concepts in accounting software.
    • Emerging Trends
      • Overview of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its applications.
      • Introduction to cybersecurity: password management, antivirus usage.
      • Basics of mobile app usage and office automation on smartphones.

2. Trade Practical (Hands-On Skills)

Focuses on practical application of computer operation and programming skills.

  • Semester 1
    • Computer Operations
      • Booting and shutting down a computer system.
      • File and folder management in Windows/Linux.
      • Installing and uninstalling software applications.
    • Office Software Practice
      • Creating and formatting documents in MS Word (e.g., letters, resumes).
      • Designing spreadsheets in MS Excel with formulas and charts.
      • Preparing presentations in MS PowerPoint with animations.
    • Data Entry
      • Typing practice: speed and accuracy improvement (English and regional languages).
      • Data entry in spreadsheets and forms.
      • Using shortcuts and hotkeys for efficient operation.
    • Internet Usage
      • Browsing websites, downloading files, and managing bookmarks.
      • Sending and receiving emails with attachments.
      • Using cloud storage for file sharing and backup.
  • Semester 2
    • Advanced Software Applications
      • Creating databases in MS Access: designing tables, running queries.
      • Automating tasks in Excel using macros and advanced functions.
      • Designing simple layouts in desktop publishing software.
    • Programming Practice
      • Writing and executing simple programs in C/C++ (e.g., sum, factorial).
      • Developing basic Python programs (e.g., calculator, loops).
      • Debugging and testing programs for errors.
    • Web Development
      • Creating static webpages using HTML and CSS.
      • Adding interactivity to webpages with basic JavaScript.
      • Testing webpages on different browsers.
    • Accounting Software
      • Setting up a company in Tally and entering transactions.
      • Generating reports like profit/loss statements and balance sheets.
      • Managing inventory and GST entries in Tally.
    • Project Work
      • Developing a small application (e.g., billing system, webpage).
      • Preparing a project report with documentation and screenshots.

3. Workshop Calculation and Science

Provides mathematical and scientific support for computer-related tasks.

  • Semester 1
    • Basic arithmetic: addition, subtraction, multiplication, division.
    • Percentages, averages, and ratios for data analysis.
    • Units of data storage: bits, bytes, KB, MB, GB, TB.
  • Semester 2
    • Binary and decimal number systems for programming.
    • Simple calculations for programming logic (e.g., loop iterations).
    • Basics of logic gates and their relevance to computing.

4. Engineering Drawing

Teaches flowcharting and diagramming for programming and system design.

  • Semester 1
    • Drawing tools: ruler, pencil, templates.
    • Basic symbols for flowcharts: start/stop, process, decision.
    • Simple flowcharts for office tasks (e.g., data entry process).
  • Semester 2
    • Complex flowcharts for programming algorithms.
    • Block diagrams for computer systems and network layouts.
    • Pseudocode representation of program logic.

5. Employability Skills

Enhances job readiness and soft skills.

  • Semester 1
    • Communication skills: verbal and written interaction in the workplace.
    • Time management and teamwork for office tasks.
    • Basic IT skills: MS Office, email etiquette.
  • Semester 2
    • Entrepreneurship basics: starting a data entry or IT service business.
    • Resume writing and interview skills.
    • Advanced IT skills: internet research, use of productivity tools.

Assessment and Certification

  • Examinations: Conducted semester-wise with theoretical and practical components.
  • Certification: Successful candidates receive the National Trade Certificate (NTC) from NCVT, recognized nationally and internationally.
  • Evaluation: Based on practical tests (e.g., typing, programming), written exams, and project work.

Career Opportunities

  • Employment: Computer operator, data entry operator, office assistant, programming assistant, Tally operator.
  • Self-Employment: Starting a data entry service, cyber café, or small IT support business.
  • Further Studies: Diploma in Computer Applications or IT-related courses.

Note

  • This syllabus aligns with the latest NCVT guidelines and may vary slightly based on institutional or state-specific requirements.
  • For the most current version, refer to the Directorate General of Training (DGT) website (dgt.gov.in) or your local ITI.

Trade Type

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