Introduction to Business Computer Applications

Introduction to Business Computer Applications is a two-semester course which allows you to earn one elective credit. The class is taught on computers using MSWord 2016 software. The course is designed to assist you in mastering the touch method of key stroking (typing).  Emphasis is placed on the development of speed and accuracy. Composition at the keyboard is introduced, as well as the formatting of business documents such as letters, memos, tables, and reports. During the fall semester, you will learn the keyboard plus basic business documents.

During the spring semester more emphasis in placed on the development of your skills in formatting and producing quality letters, tables, reports, and outlines. You will be exposed to more advanced word processing tools such as merging, and desktop publishing skills.  During the second semester, heavier emphasis is placed on obtaining a higher level of typing speed. Two grades or more are taken weekly. At the beginning of the course, it is very difficult to give grades because mastery of the keyboard has not been achieved.  However, within three to four weeks, you will be completing work for evaluation. A keyboarding text is provided for your use at the beginning of the semester.  There are written tests given, but you will be given a study guide or will be allow to format and key the information to take home in order to prepare for the exam.

Students can improve their typing speed and accuracy by utilizing www.freetypinggame.net, www.typingweb.com, or www.goodtyping.com.

COURSE CONTENT

• First Semester  
• Learners will demonstrate how to correctly key letters and numbers (top row) by touch.  Correct technique is emphasized.  Test grades are given based on theTechnique Check Sheet rubric.  A Work Habits (technique grade) grade and a weekly class production printout (accuracy) will be class work grades. 
• Learners will demonstrate how to correctly key symbols and numbers (numeric keypad) by touch.  Word processing functions will be utilized to format personal-business letters, memorandums, e-mails, and unbound reports.  Test grades will be given for weekly class production printouts (accuracy) and knowledge of the correct format of memorandums, e-mails, and unbound reports.  Work Habits will be a class grade.  
• Word processing functions will be utilized to format personal-business letters, business letters and tables.  Timed writing grades will be given to determine speed and accuracy.  Test grades will be given for weekly class production printouts (accuracy), timed writings, and knowledge of the correct format of the letters.  A Work Habits grade will be given.

• Second Semester  
  • Learners will discuss Office basics, Windows basics, and Word basics; perform basic editing; use helpful Word features; format text; format paragraphs and documents; work with graphics; work with documents; and increase efficiency using Word.  Learners will read, discuss, and execute each lesson’s step-by-steps.  They will be tested on their knowledge of the material.
  • Industry Based Certification—Computer technology will be presented that will lead to the learner’s ability to achieve industry based certification for Microsoft Office Specialist Word.  Learners will use practice software to prepare for the Microsoft Office Specialist Word exam.  They will be given the opportunity to take the Microsoft Office Specialist Word exam.