Essentials Level Course Content

The DiRAC Essentials Level Training (Formerly the Driving Licence), is a basic introduction to the principles of HPC and the tools needed to work on an HPC system. The training will help you to develop the skills required to meet your research and user needs and allow you to utilise DiRAC’s HPC systems effectively. The course focuses on the core skills, from basic connection to a system, through to laying the foundation for developing robust, high quality code.

Course Content

• Module 1: The Unix Environment
• Module 2: Command Scripts
• Module 3: Version Control
• Module 4: Software Design
• Module 5: Software Testing
• Module 6: Code Scaling
• Module 7: Good Networking Practice

Essentials Level Test

The Essentials Level training culminates in a short on-line test – the training material here covers all aspects of HPC competency that are included in the test. The test is mandatory for those who are studying for advanced degrees, such as M.Sc. and Ph.D., and those employed as Post-Doctoral Research Assistants/Associates who have less than two years HPC experience.

For information on the test and how to sign-up for it, take a look at our dedicated Test Page.

The DiRAC Essentials Level Training has been developed with support of The Software Sustainability Institute and Software Carpentry.