I just realised I only replied directly to Nik but this info may be useful for the rest of the group:
This comes up a lot in our facebook study group. Here are a few things we have noted from reading all the posts and experiences that have been shared over the past few years:
- The vast majority of people in our group do not do any training courses
- Those that do, usually do not pay for it themselves (usually company-funded)
- If people do take the training courses, they have felt a live course with a trainer you can communicate led to better outcomes than the pre-recorded/self-paced training
- People who take the training courses still seem to do as much additional reading and study hours as those that do not.
From a personal perspective, I did the online, self-paced training when I took the exam in 2018. I took the second course on your list above and I didn't find it that helpful - it's a high-level overview more than anything else. The textbook is the bible in my view. If you know that inside and out, that is the best starting point for success.
In addition, we have just published our Ultimate guide to passing the CIPP/E exam in 2021 today. Our observations on the training courses are included but you will also find lots of other useful links, resources and steps to help you self-study. This guid
e is compiled from advice from certified professionals, our own detailed research and the experiences of our community members. Best of luck with your studies! https://privacystudygroup.com/ultimate-cippe-study-guide-pass-cippe-in-2021/
All the best,
Maria