Entry requirements
It would be beneficial if you have numeracy skills and previous experience in using a computer/spreadsheet software. A relevant qualification or work experience would also be beneficial.
Why take this course?
Along with word processing packages, the most widely used software application is the spreadsheet. This is a mandatory Unit within the HNC/HND Administration & Information Technology course, but is also included within other HN Group Awards and can be taken as a stand-alone Unit. It is designed to allow candidates to develop an understanding of spreadsheet design and how to use spreadsheet features and functions for practical and effective use. It is also relevant to those hoping to develop their knowledge of spreadsheets as a tool to help provide solutions to common business problems. On successful completion, candidates should be able to:
- Create a spreadsheet design to provide solutions for a business scenario
- Present spreadsheet data in graphical form and interpret the results
- Provide solutions to a business scenario using spreadsheet statistical functions
All students are assigned a login to Microsoft Office 365 which includes online access to Microsoft Excel 2016.
What you will experience
This Unit will introduce different uses of spreadsheets, ranging from creating financial reports to handling lists of data and preparing charts to provide solutions to common business problems. It will develop your critical thinking skills, meaning you will be able to judge the appropriate spreadsheet formulas and functions for the presentation and summary of data. There are three outcomes.
Outcome 1 concentrates on spreadsheet design and creation. You will create relevant single or multiple spreadsheet files and consolidate the data within related worksheets to provide summary information for a business problem.
Outcome 2 develops skills for the graphical representation of data. You will use charting and enhancement features to identify and describe patterns, direction of tendency and exceptions as you draw conclusions based on a common business problem.
Outcome 3 develops the use of spreadsheet statistical functions for the numerical summary of data to aid decision-making. You should use frequency distribution tables and statistical functions to summarise information and then draw conclusions based on a common business problem.
Evidence for this Unit is generated through 3 assessments undertaken using open book controlled conditions. Your Tutor will mark your all your certified assessments. Any re-submissions, known as remediation, will also be directed and remarked by your tutor. Your work will then be cross-marked by an in college subject expert, a process called moderation. It is only then that a result can be sent to the Awarding Body for certification. A pass is not final until all cross-checking procedures have been successfully completed. Your pass will be notified to the SQA for certification. Assessments are booked through the BCD team.
Key Facts
Everything you need to know before applying for this course.
Pre-entry guidance
Pre-entry guidance is required before booking a place on this course. Please contact our Distance Learning Co-ordinators for more information.
College attendance
You may be required to attend College for assessment. Please check if this is a requirement for your course.
Fee Waiver (Remission of Fees)
Your course may be free if you are not a full time student with NESCol and you are : in receipt of benefits; or care-experienced; or your household taxable income falls below defined levels.
Individual Training Account (ITA)
This course is eligible for ITA funding which offers up to £200 towards the cost of training. Conditions apply.
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Applications
This course requires some attendance at College, often for assessment purposes only. Please enquire about expectations for your specific course when booking.
Attendance is usually at the Aberdeen City Campus or Fraserburgh Campus.
When submitting your distance learning application form, please ensure you attach the additional information sheet listing qualifications and previous knowledge with your application. You may be required to attend College for assessment. Please check if this is a requirement for your course.
Distance Learning courses have flexible start dates and applications will be considered at all points of the year.
For non-Scottish residents – the College will confirm fees payable for your chosen course on booking and these may differ from the advertised fee.
If you take up a place on a College course, at the start of the course you will be asked to complete an enrolment form. In completing the form and/or taking up a place on a College course, you will enter into a contract with the College and be bound by the North East Scotland College Standard Terms and Conditions of Study. Copies of the Terms and Conditions are available for inspection on notice boards and at various locations throughout the College, at the College Reception, on the College website: nescol.ac.uk, or can be obtained on request from the Student Funding and Admissions Manager, North East Scotland College, Aberdeen City Campus, Gallowgate, Aberdeen AB25 1BN. Please note that courses are offered subject to (a) there being sufficient numbers of enrolments and (b) the availability of resources. The College reserves its right (i) not to run courses where the number of students is considered insufficient or where resources are unavailable and (ii) in certain circumstances, to refuse admission to an individual applicant.
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