Summary

The purpose of this module is to allow you to develop your skills in the design, creation and editing of professional standard spreadsheet workbooks. During the module you will create a spreadsheet that is relevant to your area of interest and chosen by you. In order to create the workbook you will need to be competent in the use of a range of spreadsheet functions and techniques. The quality of the final document will demonstrate the level of competence you have achieved.

You will use the discovery learning techniques described in the Discovery Learning page on this site to gather the resources you need to develop your skills and knowledge. You will be supported throughout by a tutor who will provide guidance when needed. As you develop your spreadsheet you will be submitting drafts for comment and advice and you will be commenting on your experience in a reflective log.

The Spreadsheets Competence Map shows the four phases of development for spreadsheets. The first phase is always the design phase where you explore the design features of the workbook you are about to produce. This will indicate the actions that then need to be taken to create the document, and hence the spreadsheet skills you will need to complete that part of the exercise.

The Task

The task is to create a spreadsheet workbook that demonstrate a broad level of competence in designing, creating and editing documents using spreadsheet software. You will select a spreadsheet application that is relevant to your personal area of interest and will follow the four stage document creation process demonstrating the use of appropriate spreadsheet functions and techniques.

The process will begin with you going to your personal page and posting a message on your discussion forum to announce that you are starting the module. Your tutor will respond by asking to nominate the types of document that you would like to produce and will discuss the range of word processing skills and functions you will need to complete them. If you have difficulty in deciding which document types to choose, the tutor will be able to advise.

After that it's up to you! You will be advised to visit the module start-up page where practical advice will be given about how to organise your work and how to quickly find the resources you need to complete all the activities that lead to a completed document. You will be asked to submit drafts of documents at frequent intervals for comment and further advice. You will also be asked to contribute to the module reflective forum where other learners will also be sharing their expereinces. Good luck, and we hope you enjoy the experience!