A microcredential is a certification awarded for the successful completion of a short educational program focused on acquiring specific competencies.
It usually covers specialized content that can be mastered in a relatively short period of time and contributes to a faster response to labor market needs, career development, or the upgrading of knowledge and skills.
More about microcredentials at the University of Ljubljana:
: https://www.uni-lj.si/studij/vsezivljensko-ucenje-in-mikrodokazila/mikrodokazila
Content
Introduction and Core Concepts (7 hours)
Introduction to Communication Networks: Basic Terms and Concepts
Protocol Stacks: Comparison and Functions of Individual Layers
Ethernet Technology: Operation, Frames, and Addressing
IPv4 Protocol and Basic Addressing
Hands-on Lab: Using Diagnostic Tools — ping, tracert/traceroute, nslookup, ipconfig/ifconfig
Practical Application and Network Operations (7 hours)
Core Internet Protocols — ICMP, TCP, and UDP: Purpose, Usage, and Diagnostics
Address Assignment and Basic Mechanisms (DHCP and DNS)
Basic Internet Protocols and Services: HTTP/HTTPS, E-mail, and File Transfers
Introduction to Routing — Demonstration Through Examples
Hands-on Lab: Setting Up a Basic Local Area Network (connecting computers, IP configuration, connectivity testing, and basic troubleshooting)
Network Security and Practical Examples (7 hours)
Introduction to Network Security: Passwords, Access Control, Basic Threats, and Simple Security Measures
Hands-on Lab: Troubleshooting Real-World Network Issues (incorrect DNS settings, IP conflicts, incorrect subnet masks, wrong access point configuration)
Group Exercise: Designing a Real-World Network (how to design a small network, e.g. for a classroom or department)
Packet Tracer Network Simulation Lab (preparation for independent work and the final assessment)
Independent Work (9 hours)
Independent Exercises in the Packet Tracer Network Simulator
(prepared exercises organized by chapters)
Knowledge Assessment: Solving a Practical Task in the Packet Tracer Network Simulator (1 hour)
The exam can be taken either on-site at the UL Faculty of Electrical Engineering or remotely (with the option of submitting the .pkt file online).
Recommended prior knowledge
Completed secondary vocational or general education (EQF level IV or V)
Basic digital competencies
English language proficiency due to the use of foreign literature and study materials (B1 level)
Learning objectives
Upon successful completion of the training programme, the participant:
understands the basic concepts and operation of modern communication and computer networks
is able to independently verify network connectivity and operation using basic diagnostic tools (ping, tracert, nslookup)
is able to perform basic network interface configuration and understands the operating principles of switches and routers
is able to independently plan and carry out basic maintenance tasks in small local area networks (LANs)
Target group
The programme is intended for anyone who wishes to acquire fundamental knowledge in the field of communication and computer networks for entry-level and support roles in the ICT environment, such as:
helpdesk and user support specialists
operators or technicians in IT environments
administrative or project support staff in IT departments
assistants in digitalization or information services teams
technical support staff involved in consulting or sales of ICT equipment
The programme is also beneficial for anyone who collaborates with developers of digital services, programmers, and similar professionals, or who commissions such services from external providers, for example project coordinators, members of development teams, and other professional associates.
Demand for Micro-Credentials
The proposed programme is aligned with the objectives of the Active Employment Policy and directly contributes to improving the employability of individuals who wish to retrain or upgrade their digital competencies. Knowledge in the field of communication and computer networks represents one of the key foundational competencies required for a wide range of technical professions in the ICT sector, where demand for qualified personnel remains consistently high and continues to grow in the long term. The digital and technical competencies strengthened through this programme are among the most sought-after skills in the labour market, particularly for entry-level technical positions such as user support, assistance in maintaining information systems, basic network administration, technical support within companies, and support roles in ICT-related projects.
Through this microcredential, participants acquire verifiable knowledge of communication and computer network operations, internet protocols, configuration of basic network devices, and troubleshooting of the most common network issues. These competencies form the foundation that employers expect from entry-level technical profiles. The microcredential enables employers to identify individuals who possess a structured, verified, and practically oriented set of fundamental networking skills.
The programme is also aligned with the objectives of Slovenia’s Digital Strategy 2030 and the DigComp 2.2 competence framework, both of which emphasize the importance of digital literacy and understanding digital systems as essential competencies for the modern labour market.
