NW3C Basic Data Recovery and Acquisition
I just completed the Basic Data Recovery and Acquisition (BDRA) course offered by NW3C in Miami, Florida.
The class is a combination of technical training on the FAT file systems and the acquisition of disk images. A third of the class time is devoted to labs that involved in depth looks and experience on the technical areas covered in class. The labs are excellent reinforcers of the technical material.
There are two instructors present at all times in the course. The second instructor is moving through the room and helping students while another is leading the exercises. This is a very efficient method of instruction used.
The course planning for the class is OUTSTANDING. It was the most well planned class for law enforcement that I have ever attended. Every powerpoint slide is clear, concise, and to the point. The graphics used to explain points are visually appealing along with representing the technical point in question. The labs are planned out to every last keystroke. The class is perfectly timed to fit the schedule.
The instructors were knowledgable, approachable, and entertaining. They are clearly teaching computer forensics because it is something they enjoy. They are happy to be passing on their knowledge.
I hope to be able to attend more NW3C courses. Especially, to someone new to computer forensics; the course would be highly valuable. I recommend the training. (FYI… It is law enforcement only.)