General Computer Applications

Duration:  1 Year

Course Description:

Today, knowledge of MS Office is essential for anyone who plans to attend college and eventually enter the workforce.  This course is designed for students to learn the basics of the most popular word processing, spreadsheet and presentation applications used in college and the workplace.  Students will learn how to conduct effective Internet research.  An introduction to Financial Literacy will also be included.  Overall, students will gain a strong basis for more advanced courses. 

Comprehensive Overview of MS Office 2007 (5 Months)

A.      MS Word

1.       Understanding the MS Word interface

2.       Creating business correspondence

3.       Formatting an essay and term paper

4.       Desktop publishing

B.      MS Excel

1.       Understanding the MS Excel interface

2.       Creating and formatting basic spreadsheets

3.       Developing and using formulas

C.      MS PowerPoint

1.       Understanding the MS PowerPoint Interface

2.       Creating a basic PowerPoint slide show

3.       Developing effective presentation skills with MS PowerPoint

Personal Financial Planning (3 Months)

A.      Budgeting

B.      Consumer credit and banking

C.      Personal Savings

D.      Understanding the economy

Internet Research (1.5 Months)

A.      Develop effective internet search techniques

B.      Use various search engines and academic databases to enhance research

Assessments:

                  Unit tests

Computer-based research projects

Final Integrated Presentation