I am taking the ACMA tomorrow morning. I was initially thinking of skipping the ACMA and going straight for ACMP. However, I backed off and felt I was more prepared for ACMA with some review and what I had already learned from our current network.
I disagree that you would have to relearn items as the ACMP builds on the ACMA. IP mobility, spectrum monitor, S3500 access switch configuration, roaming, and mulit-controller network operation(master/local) are the big differences.
One thing I did that worked great for me was to compare the ACMA and ACMP study guide. I created a spreadsheet with all the ACMP bullets then made two additional columns - ACMA and ACMP, marking an X beside the subject bullet to designate what is on the ACMA from what is on the ACMP. Doing this I can see what remaining topics I have left, given that I pass the ACMA *crosses fingers*.
I figured having an understanding of the fundamentals and passing the ACMA, will allow me more time to focus on the more advanced topics for when I'm ready to take the ACMP. Building the foundation, I guess you would say.
Hope this helps and good luck.