A combination of lecture, demonstration, guided practice, web-based training, and self-paced lab assignment and simulation projects may be used. Active learning is an integral part of this course, and major emphasis will be placed on a "hands-on" environment to allow students to work both independently and collaboratively to learn and apply computer application skills and techniques.
Module 1 - Operating System Interface [1]
- Perform the four basic mouse operations and utilize keyboard shortcuts.
- Obtain online Help while using an application.
- Understand and use directory structures and paths in file management.
- Use a file manager to: identify directory structures and paths; select, copy and move one file or group of files or folders; create, rename and delete a file or folder.
Module 2 - Word Processing [7]
- Create, save, preview, print, close, open, and edit a document.
- Proofread and correct all types of documents with the spelling and grammar checker, and thesaurus.
- Enhance documents with character, paragraph and global formatting features.
- Adjust margins and line spacing.
- Create headers and/or footers.
- Use and modify styles.
- Adjust page breaks and section breaks.
- Insert special symbols, bullets, and enumerations.
- Create custom tab settings.
- Create citations, and footnotes and/or endnotes.
- Create documents with the aid of wizards and templates.
- Create and use both autocorrect and autotext features.
- Insert, complete and format a table.
- Address and print preview envelopes and mailing labels.
- Use graphic features like colouring, shading, wordart, smartart, and page borders to enhance a document.
- Import, edit and format clip art and pictures, including setting text wrap options.
- Generate form letters and mailing labels.
- Design a newsletter utilizing columns and graphic elements.
Module 3 - Spreadsheet [3]
- Create a simple sales report with an embedded chart.
- Create financial reports that facilitate both "what-if" analysis and goal seeking.
- Use SUM, AVERAGE, MAX, MIN and IF functions.
- Use relative, absolute and 3-D referencing in buildng formulas.
- Create a variety of 3-D charts on separate chart sheets.
Module 4 - Email [2]
- Compose, send, receive, forward and respond to email messages.
- Create, organize, store and print contact lists.
- Create meetings and appointments in online calendars.
- Display, print and work with calendars in assorted views.
The learner has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Use the operating system interface to perform basic software functions and to organize and manage directories and files effectively;
- Use email software to manage email communications, handle contacts, and schedule appointments and meetings;
- Use word processing software to produce a variety of business documents meeting industry standards for timely completion, correctness of content and format, and professional appearance;
- Use spreadsheet software capable of answering "what-if" questions to solve business problems;
- Use the computer as a decision-making and problem-solving tool;
- Produce business documents requiring the integration of word processing, spreadsheet, and email software.
| Word Tests (2) | 40-50% | |
| Excel Test | 15-25% | |
| Outlook Test | 10-15% | |
| Employability Skills | 0-5% | |
| Assignments | 5-10% | |
| Project(s) | 5-15% | |
| Total | 100% |
Shelly, Gary B. and Misty E. Vermaat. Microsoft Word, Complete, Latest Ed., Nelson Education: Course Technology Cengage Learning.
Shelly, Gary B. and Jeffrey J. Quasney. Microsoft Excel, Introductory, Latest Ed., Nelson Education: Course Technology Cengage Learning.
Freund, Steven M. and Corinne L. Hoisington. Microsoft Outlook, Complete, Latest Ed., Nelson Education: Course Technology Cengage Learning.
Skills Assessment Manager (SAM), Latest Ed., Nelson Education: Course Technology Cengage Learning.
Or other textbooks and online assessment tools as approved by the department.