Course Overview

Learn how to compose, edit and format text in Microsoft Word.  Understand how spreadsheets work, and discover how to enter data into cells and create your own formulae.  Find out how to add, edit, organise and search records on databases.  Study how to use Microsoft Powerpoint to create a successful presentation.

Pre-requisites

No previous experience required.

Qualification

ICS PC Basics Diploma

Support and benefits

• Complimentary textbook: “Computing for Adults”
• Access to a dedicated tutor to mentor and motivate you throughout
  

Key topics:

• Fundamentals of PC Systems

Consider the different tasks that computers can perform. Examine input, processing, storage and output devices. Learn how to communicate with your computer.

• The Essentials of Microsoft Windows and File Management

Explore the desktop screen. Learn how to open programs. Discover how to resize, minimise and close windows, and explore the scroll bars and menus. Learn how to manage files and folders.

• Word Processing (1)

Learn how to enter, edit, select and delete text in Microsoft Word. Discover how to save, close and open word processing files. Explore the formatting of text, considering font, size and style. Learn how to use the spell checker and consider its limitations.

• Word Processing (2)

Learn how to change document layout by adjusting margins and orientation. Discover how to format paragraphs. Explore cutting, copying and pasting. Consider page numbering, headers, footers, columns and advanced methods of formatting text. Learn how to insert Clipart and WordArt and how to print documents.

• Spreadsheets (1)

Explore the fundamentals of spreadsheets and then learn how to enter data, edit data and use formulae and functions in Microsoft Excel. Discover how to use AutoFill to copy data and formulae.

• Spreadsheets (2)

Learn how to format text and figures in Microsoft Excel and explore the AutoFormat feature. Discover how to work with multiple worksheets and how to insert and delete cells. Learn how to use AutoFill to create number sequences and customised lists.

• Spreadsheets (3) and Databases

Discover how to create a household budget in a spreadsheet and how to print spreadsheets. Learn how to use Microsoft Excel to create databases, and then explore records, fields, the Database Form, sorting and the AutoFilter feature.

• Presentations

Learn how to create presentation slideshows using Microsoft PowerPoint. Discover how to use slide layouts, placeholders, bullet points and colour schemes. Learn how to insert lines, shapes, text boxes, tables and Clipart. Explore transitions and animations.

• The Internet

Learn how to use Microsoft Internet Explorer to browse the Web and how to set your home page and favourites. Discover how to use search engines and e-mail.

Course Code

X05

Hours of study

60 hours

Technical requirements

You will require access to a PC with Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Powerpoint and Microsoft Access installed.

Outline

You’ll complete nine assessments during your course. These assessments can be submitted to ICS online via the Student Community, or they can be posted to ICS. It is recommended that you submit your assessments online as you will receive your results more quickly this way. Please note that, due to their nature, some of your assessments may need to be posted.

Assessment Breakdown

• Assessment 1: 12 short answer questions and 3 multiple choice questions
• Assessment 2: 20 short answer questions
• Assessment 3: 25 short answer questions
• Assessment 4: 25 short answer questions and 1 activity requiring you to design a poster or newsletter
• Assessment 5: 25 short answer questions
• Assessment 6: 20 short answer questions
• Assessment 7: 15 short answer questions and 1 activity requiring you to design a spreadsheet
• Assessment 8: 25 short answer questions and 1 activity requiring you to produce a PowerPoint presentation
• Assessment 9: 25 short answer questions

Notes

Short answer questions normally require you to write between a sentence and a paragraph.

Each multiple choice question comes with either three or four potential answers. Only one of these answers is correct; the others are wrong. You must identify the correct answer.