70-297: What is the point?!?

[ladato]

First off, I passed this sucker in 2 tries, but I'm still mystified as to what it proved about me, about Microsoft or about the world.

For those who aren't familiar with the test, it's part of the Win2003 MCSE track. The current setup for the test is:
You get 4 "scenarios". Each scenario has 6 to 10 screens full of information plus exhibits. You have to answer 8-11 design questions based on that information. Subjects include DNS, ADI, GPO, VPN (why are they always 3 letters???), IAS, ISA, etc.

Oh, did I mention you have 20 minutes per scenario? Actually, one I got was 15 minutes. So it varies. And if you finish one with time left, it doesn't carry over.

So my question to all is: What in the world does this prove?

Leon Adato (adatole@yahoo.com)
Measure what is measurable,
And make measurable what is not so.
- Galileo

 

[Crazyfitz]

Designing a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Active Directory and Network Infrastructure

The stated purpose of this exam is to "measure your ability to design a Microsoft Windows Server 2003 Active Directory and network infrastructure."

http://www.microsoft.com/learning/exams/70-297.asp

The core exams test your abilities to install, configure and administer a Windows Network. (They day to day nuts and bolts tasks).
The design exams test your ability to analyze business needs of an organization and design a solution that meets those needs using your knowledge of Windows 2003. This is the "high-level" work of deciding how all the pieces need to fit together to satisfy the needs of the company. If you have not mastered the four core exam material, you should not be sitting for this exam. (IMHO)

I have been a MCSA(win2k) for just over a year and will be taking the 70-219 (Designing a Microsoft Windows 2000 Directory Services Infrastructure) next week. I made the choice not to take it last year for two reasons. Number one: I did not feel comfortable with my experience with Win2k to be ready to take this exam. Number two: I am in a stable environment and did not need to focus on the design aspects of Windows Directory Services. My employer wants me to become MCSE this year and the only requirement I have left is to take one of the design exams. (and Yes, He is paying for exam, and I'm getting a raise. (-: )

George
MCSA +Messaging (Win2k) A+, Net +

 

[ladato]

I understand your point. But you have to understand that the test you are taking (219) gives you **1 HOUR** per scenario and your extra time carries over. 297 gives you **20 MINUTES** per scenario and the clock restarts with each scenario change.

My point isn't about what the overall concept of the exam is testing. My point is that the execution (ie: the rules surrounding how the 297 exam is done) seem counter-inuitive and counter-productive.

Leon

Leon Adato (adatole@yahoo.com)
Measure what is measurable,
And make measurable what is not so.
- Galileo

 

[ladato]

News flash:

You can now take 70-220 INSTEAD OF 70-297. I find this to be a tacit admission of the inherent problems with the 2003 track test.

I'm happy for those who haven't had to deal with 297, although I'm also a little miffed about all the time and frustration I spent with it. I do NOT feel like a better/strong technician for having done it.

Oh well. A pox on Bill's pimply butt. As usual.
Leon

Leon Adato (adatole@yahoo.com)
Measure what is measurable,
And make measurable what is not so.
- Galileo