Maurice, they will find a newly installed computer lab. The transfer to IBM - Windows Based software will, by its similarities and differences to the MAC system, require several sessions dedicated to the unique characteristics of the installed software programs and these machines. Students will have their own computer and the only items they will share are the printers. Each computer will have Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Access, Power Point and access to research vehicles such as the Internet and encyclopedias.
After an appropriate introduction, the major assignment will be discussed and work will begin about the middle of September. The students will be asked to develop a "business" of their own. Hopefully, they will choose one that is line with their preferences and of a nature that can be researched on the Internet. The first assignment that will be due is a letter describing the nature of their venture, its goals and location, and their own position in the company. Because Microsoft Word includes both a spelling and grammar check, mistakes of this nature are not acceptable.
A Data Base of employees will be developed next with information that includes correct names (they can be fictitious), addresses, Zip Codes, job descriptions, number of dependents, gross salary and net salary (to be imported from a Spread Sheet). The students will be required to submit two (2) different formats of information - not the complete database.
A SpreadSheet using the names from the database and appropriate salaries will then be developed. Taxes will be deducted according to a generally accepted percentage rate. This will enable the student to review the skills of entering and using formulae on a spreadsheet. A completed copy (on a single sheet) will then be generated.
At the conclusion of the project, the skills developed from the Power Point software can then be utilized to make a presentation using either a slide show presentation of their company or a verbal presentation using overheads generated on the computer. (The students who enter PJAS will have a definite advantage if they are able to master this procedure.).
Grading will be determined by the proper use of the computers, time deadlines, and the finished project. Hopefully, they will be able to show you what they have been doing as we go along. If you have any questions, please call me - anytime.
Betty Killmeyer 351-5403
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