This course is suitable for students who have some knowledge/experience of using a computer or have completed an intermediate computer course. You will learn how to use more advanced formatting features in MS Word, Excel and PowerPoint; produce tables, letters and labels in MS Word using mail merge; perform calculations and design an Excel spreadsheet; organise and research information using the internet and design a PowerPoint presentation. Although there is no examination, your work will be assessed throughout the course with verbal and written feedback and you will receive a certificate upon successful completion of the course.
Additional information about this course
This course is only available for those residing in a Greater Manchester Combined Authority postcode area.
Course aim
To expand knowledge and skills in some applications of MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint and the Internet to build confidence to use these skills independently.
Do I need any particular skills or experience?
- This course is for improvers
By the end of the course I should be able to:
- Develop my word processing skills by editing and formatting a document in MS Word using advanced formatting features including WordArt, symbols, borders and shading by week 3.
- Organise and research information using the internet to produce a document of my own design to demonstrate my computer skills by the end of week 4.
- Produce a letter in MS Word by inserting tabs, changing the line spacing and using spell check to demonstrate my word processing skills by the end of week 6.
- Perform calculations by using formulae in an Excel spreadsheet to analyse and present numerical data to demonstrate my computer skills by week 7.
- Design a PowerPoint presentation using text boxes, formatting features, transitions and animations to demonstrate my computer skills by week 8.
How will I be taught?
- The WEA tutor will use a range of different teaching and learning methods and encourage you and the group to be actively involved in your learning
- You may be asked to undertake additional work in your own time to support your learning
What kind of feedback can I expect?
- A range of informal activities will be used by the tutor to see what you are learning which may include quizzes, question and answer, small projects and discussion
- You will have opportunities to discuss your progress with your tutor
- You will be encouraged to share your work with the group and discuss your learning
- You will be encouraged to consider other students work and give your opinions and suggestions
- A file of work will be kept which will help to record your progress
What else do I need to know?
- A selection of materials and basic equipment will be provided but you are welcome to bring additional materials with you
- It would be helpful if you had access to the internet (Mobile phone, tablet or computer at home or through a library etc.)
Pre-course work, reading and information sources
- No pre reading or pre course work is required
What can I do next?
- Progress to another WEA course
- Progress to a course with another provider
- This course could lead to a range of job opportunities. Follow link to National Careers Service for more details https://nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk/
- Become involved with the WEA in a range of voluntary work and other activities including campaigning as a WEA member
- Become involved as a volunteer for a WEA partner or another organisation
- You could progress to Higher Education courses. Follow link to the PEARL website for information http://pearl.open.ac.uk/
- Access the WEA What Next? booklet here http://www.wea.org.uk/learn-wea/what-can-i-do-next
Download full course information sheet
