27101 Orientation to the Trade
Course Syllabus: NCCER Module 27101 – Orientation to the Trade
Course Title: Orientation to the Trade Course Code: NCCER 27101 (Carpentry Level 1) Credit Hours: Non-credit (NCCER certification module) Contact Hours: 5 hours (recommended; includes classroom instruction and review) Prerequisites: None Delivery Method: In-person or blended (classroom lecture, discussion, and multimedia)
Course Description
This introductory module provides an overview of the carpentry profession. Trainees explore the history of the trade, apprenticeship and training programs, career opportunities, required skills and personal characteristics for success, professional responsibilities, and emerging trends such as sustainable construction. The module aligns with National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) standards and serves as the foundation for Carpentry Level 1 training.
Learning Objectives
Upon successful completion of this module, trainees will be able to:
- Describe the history and evolution of the carpentry trade.
- Identify the aptitudes, behaviors, skills, and personal characteristics needed to succeed as a carpenter.
- Identify career paths, entrepreneurial opportunities, and advancement options within carpentry and the broader construction industry.
- Explain the structure of apprenticeship programs and other training/continuing education opportunities.
- Describe the responsibilities, ethics, and professional characteristics expected of individuals in the construction industry.
- Discuss the role of safety, sustainability, and green building practices in modern carpentry (where applicable in current NCCER editions).
Required Materials
- NCCER Carpentry Level 1 Trainee Guide (current edition, containing Module 27101)
- NCCER online access for module resources (if provided by training sponsor)
- Notebook and writing materials
- Personal protective equipment (PPE) for any facility orientation
Course Outline/Topics
| Session/Section | Topics Covered | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Introduction and History | Overview of the module History of carpentry from ancient times to modern construction Evolution of tools, materials, and building techniques | 1 hour |
| 2. The Carpentry Profession Today | Role of carpenters in construction Aptitudes, skills, and behaviors for success (e.g., physical fitness, attention to detail, problem-solving) Professional responsibilities and ethics | 1 hour |
| 3. Training and Apprenticeship | Apprenticeship programs (typically 4 years/8,000 hours) NCCER training structure and credentials Continuing education and certification opportunities | 1 hour |
| 4. Career and Entrepreneurial Opportunities | Job roles (e.g., rough carpentry, finish carpentry, foreman, contractor) Entrepreneurial paths (starting a business) Related fields (e.g., construction management, green building specialties) | 1 hour |
| 5. Emerging Trends and Review | Sustainability and green building concepts Industry safety culture Module review and Q&A | 1 hour |
Teaching Methods
- Interactive lectures and presentations
- Group discussions
- Multimedia videos (e.g., NCCER-provided resources or trade history overviews)
- Review questions and flashcards for key terms
Assessment and Evaluation
- Participation and Engagement: Active involvement in discussions (20%)
- Module Review Questions: Completion of trainee guide exercises (30%)
- Final Assessment: NCCER Module Examination (written test; multiple-choice and/or short answer) – Passing score: 70% or higher required for NCCER credential
- Performance Tasks: None required for this module (knowledge-based only)
Successful completion earns the trainee an NCCER wallet card/credential for Module 27101 and contributes toward Carpentry Level 1 certification.
Grading Policy
- Pass/Fail based on NCCER standards
- Retesting available per training sponsor policy
Policies
- Attendance: Full attendance required for certification eligibility
- Safety: Adherence to facility safety rules at all times
- Academic Integrity: All work must be original; plagiarism or cheating results in failure of the module
- Accommodations: Available for qualified students per institutional policy
This syllabus is based on standard NCCER Carpentry curriculum guidelines. Specific details may vary by edition or training provider. Contact your NCCER-accredited sponsor for the latest resources.