Computer Essentials
CIS 1020-056
Brent W. Lewis, Fall Semester 2011
Work in this class was completely digital, exploring Microsoft programs and technological literacy. In each
class, multiple spreadsheets, documents and presentations were required to be created or edited according to
specific guidelines. For this signature assignment, one project from each program of focus is showcased. The
assignments below represent work in Microsoft's Excel, Word and PowerPoint programs.
Excel:
Word:
PowerPoint:
Resume: |
Reflection
The most satisfying part of this course has been finding all of the hidden tools in these programs that can save me time and improve the look of my projects. I have been proficient using word processing programs and presentation programs for years, with countless hours of experience in Word and PowerPoint especially. However, this class helped me take another look at these familiar programs. From that extra look, I found gems such as reference and footnote creation tools, grouping and photo-editing tools, and so much more.
The greatest benefits from taking the class, by far, have come from our study of Excel. I, like most people in my position, have had little experience working with spreadsheets. This course has equipped me with the skills I need now to create just about any spreadsheet I can imagine. Shortly after the first few classes, I quickly set my budget, debt payment, gas mileage, and other things to spreadsheets. I can now track my savings and spending with better accuracy, use comprehensive charts and graphics to see overall trends, and calculate many practical figures of my life in a much more useful way. The usefulness of this technology has surprised me, and I look forward to using what I have learned to help budget and sort information in the future, create impressive reports, and, of course, unbeatable presentations.