Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Objectives The student is expected to develop an understanding of how software may be applied to the process of problem solving. The student is expected to develop skills with spreadsheets and their use for analytic, numerical, and graphical solutions to problems relevant to business and industry.
Synopsis This subject is based on the concept that computers, coupled with `industry standard' software, can greatly enhance a person's ability to deal quickly and effectively with various common classes of problems encountered in employment situations. Thus the subject focuses on appropriate solution techniques including modelling; approximate and best try solutions; graphical solutions; what if scenarios; numerical calculus techniques etc. The subject illustrates the application of those techniques to such areas as business, finance, technical management and scientific problems by using embedded capabilities of Microsoft's Excel 5. The use of desktop publishing skills related to compound documents' equations and technical reports is covered using Word 6. The emphasis of the subject is on the use of modern computer tools for problem solving.
Assessment Assignments (3): 30% each + Laboratory participation: 10%