This is a fundamental Module in Information Technology and its application as a primary communication tool in modern industry. It introduces the learner to the principle programmes that are used in modern information technology, in order that they can, compile, store and analyse data, produce reports and communicate information and results with interested groups and persons.
Knowledge
Breadth: The knowledge base of this module is drawn from the principles of operation of micro-computers and various software packages that are used in modern information technology and computer applications.
Kind: The interpretation and application of information technology programmes such as Word Processing; Spreadsheets; Databases; Power-point is presented. The skills necessary to set up a Web Page and to supply and glean information by means of the internet are developed. An appreciation of the hardware equipment of computers and computer networks is described.
Know-how and skill
Range: The Learner shall gain a wide range of Information Technology skills, which are the essential communication tools of modern commerce. These skills will enable the learner to produce complex reports that will require a combination of Text; Graphic and Tabular skills, which are necessary for the transmission of information to others that they will encounter in their professional career.
Selectivity: The subject matter and learning activities of this module are chosen, such that the learner will develop the know-how and skills of: modern word-processing, setting up databases and filtering useful information from them, arranging information into spreadsheets for the purpose of producing graphs/charts and information tables and having mathematical operations carried out. The learner will demonstrate when and where it is appropriate to use these skills.
Competence
Context: The learner will be able to use the skills presented in this module as the primary tool for communicating with other parties that they will encounter in their professional careers.
Role: These skills will enable the learner to perform more successfully in their role as managers and technologists operating in the manufacturing engineering industry.
File Management
Folders and files: Exploring and creating folders, saving files into folders, copying and moving files between folders. Copying and saving files to discs and memory sticks, locating files. Saving files and folders onto the desktop. File Compression, unzipping compressed files, file types (PDF’s, DXF’s, GIF’s etc.)
Word Processing
Keyboard control commands and cursor control, toolbars and menus, basic formatting of text,
Copy/cut and paste, spelling and grammar checks, inserting diagrams/pictures/drawings from files, headers and footers, titles, borders, bullets and numbering, paragraph formatting-indentation, inserting and formatting tables, mail merge
Presentation Slides
Opening a blank presentation, slide template styles, bullets and indentations, inserting pictures from files, organizational charts, data and graphs, background designs, slide show sorter.
Database
Layout and structure of a Database, records and fields, record navigation, editing and entering records, sorting records, filtering, queries, forms, reports.
Creating a Database.
Spreadsheet
Worksheets and workbooks, rows and columns, cell references, adjusting rows and column sizes, auto-fill. Formatting data and moving data between cells. Creating and editing charts and graphs. Formulas, auto-sum, functions. Sorting data and filtering lists.
CAD
Brief introduction to CAD
Internet
The structure of the internet, navigating web pages, search engines, copying and downloading files. Sending and receiving E-Mail, attachments.
The module will be presented in three hour sessions.
Each session will divided into a One hour Lecture and a Two hour Lab.
The lecture will be delivered with the aid of a printed text and a projector interfaced with a computer, in order that demonstration can be given. Digital Copies of Notes are available to students.
The learner will engage in assigned activities during the two hour lab session and be given assignments to conduct outside of contact hours.
| Module Content & Assessment | |
|---|---|
| Assessment Breakdown | % |
| Other Assessment(s) | 100 |