Course Title: Develop and use complex spreadsheets
Part B: Course Detail
Teaching Period: Term1 2020
Course Code: COSC6185C
Course Title: Develop and use complex spreadsheets
School: 650T Vocational Business Education
Campus: City Campus
Program: C5343 - Diploma of Financial Planning
Course Contact: Callie Harvey
Course Contact Phone: +61 3 9925 5772
Course Contact Email: callie.harvey@rmit.edu.au
Name and Contact Details of All Other Relevant Staff
Michael Elliot
michael.elliot@rmit.edu.au
Nominal Hours: 50
Regardless of the mode of delivery, represent a guide to the relative teaching time and student effort required to successfully achieve a particular competency/module. This may include not only scheduled classes or workplace visits but also the amount of effort required to undertake, evaluate and complete all assessment requirements, including any non-classroom activities.
Pre-requisites and Co-requisites
None
Course Description
This unit describes the skills and knowledge required to use spreadsheet software to complete business tasks and produce complex documents.
It applies to individuals employed in a range of work environments who require skills in creation of complex spreadsheets to store and retrieve data. They may work as individuals providing administrative support within an enterprise, or may be independently responsible for designing and working with spreadsheets relevant to their own work roles.
National Codes, Titles, Elements and Performance Criteria
National Element Code & Title: |
BSBITU402 Develop and use complex spreadsheets |
Element: |
1. Prepare to develop spreadsheet |
Performance Criteria: |
1.1 Organise personal work environment in accordance with ergonomic requirements 1.2 Analyse task and determine specifications for spreadsheets 1.3 Identify organisational and task requirements of data entry, storage, output, reporting and presentation requirements 1.4 Apply work organisation strategies and energ |
Element: |
2. Develop a linked spreadsheet solution |
Performance Criteria: |
2.1 Utilise spreadsheet design software functions and formulae to meet identified requirements 2.2 Link spreadsheets in accordance with software procedures 2.3 Format cells and use data attributes assigned with relative and/or absolute cell references, in accordance with task specifications 2.4 Test formulae to confirm output meets task requirements |
Element: |
3. Automate and standardise spreadsheet operation |
Performance Criteria: |
3.1 Evaluate tasks to identify those where automation would increase efficiency 3.2 Create, use and edit macros to fulfil requirements of task and automate spreadsheet operation 3.3 Develop, edit and use templates to ensure consistency of design and layout for forms and reports, in accordance with organisational requirements |
Element: |
4. Use spreadsheets |
Performance Criteria: |
4.1 Enter, check and amend data in accordance with organisational and task requirements 4.2 Import and export data between compatible spreadsheets and adjust host documents, in accordance with software and system procedures 4.3 Use manuals, user documentation and online help to overcome problems with spreadsheet design and production 4.4 Preview, adjust and print spreadsheet in accordance with organisational and task requirements 4.5 Name and store spreadsheet in accordance with organisational requirements and exit application without data loss or damage |
Element: |
5. Represent numerical data in graphic form |
Performance Criteria: |
5.1 Determine style of graph to meet specified requirements and manipulate spreadsheet data if necessary to suit graph requirements 5.2 Create graphs with labels and titles from numerical data contained in a spreadsheet file 5.3 Save, view and print graph within designated timelines |
Learning Outcomes
Details of Learning Activities
A range of learning activities are planned for this course including self-paced and collaborative classroom based activities.
The self-paced activities will be delivered thought the Canvas learning management system and include your contribution to discussion threads, project portfolios, quizzes and interactive sessions.
The collaborative classroom based activities will include group discussion, group problem solving activities and opportunities to practice your skills in a simulated/real workplace environment.
We expect you to participate and contribute in all scheduled learning activities.
Teaching Schedule
This course is comprised of one competency: BSBITU402/COSC6185C Develop and use complex spreadsheets
(The following schedule is subject to change)
Course Schedule: Develop and Use Complex Spreadsheets, Semester 1, 2020 | ||||
Week |
Topic |
Readings and Activities |
Assessment |
Elements and Performance Criteria |
|
Week 1 February 10 |
Introduction to the course including:
Topic - Introduction to Complex Spreadsheets |
Read: Week 2 Learning materials information
Complete exercises: Introduction Excel - Complete Activity 1 and Activity 2
|
|
1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 |
|
Week 2 February 17 |
Topic 1 - Spreadsheet skills reviewed Topic 2 – Formula in Excel
|
Read: Week 2 Learning materials information - Relative and Absolute cell references Book reading, Pages 1 -20
Complete exercises Consolidation Task 1 pg. 12 Consolidation Task 2 pg.14 Hands-on exercise 1,2 & 3 |
|
1.1-1.4 2.1 – 2.4 4.1 4.3 4.5 |
|
Week 3 February 24 |
Topic 3 – Functions in Excel Topic 4 – Using Statistical functions Topic 5 – Viewing and adjusting worksheets |
Read: Week 3 Learning materials information - Book reading, Pages 21 - 42 Complete exercises: Hands-on exercises 4 ,5, 6,7,8,9,10,11 & 12 Consolidation Task 4 pg. 22 |
Portfolio of Complex Spreadsheets -Spreadsheet 1
Complete Spreadsheet 1 Due 26/2/20 Students will receive feedback in week 4. |
1.1-1.4 2.1-2.4 4.1 4.3 4.5 |
|
Week 4 March 2 |
Topic 6 - Using data and time function Topic 7 - Using logical functions Topic 8 – Creating and editing templates |
Read: Week 5 Learning materials information Week 6 Learning materials information
Book reading, Pages 43 - 58
Complete exercises: Hands-on exercise 13-19 Consolidation Exercise 5, Page 54 Consolidation Task 6, Pages 58-59 |
Portfolio of Complex Spreadsheets -Spreadsheet 2 Complete Consolidation Exercise 3, Page 21 Due 4/3/20 Students will receive feedback in week 5. |
1.1-1.4 2.1-2.4 3.3 4.1 4.3 4.4 4.5 |
|
Week 5 March 9 |
Topic 9 - Using Lookup functions Topic 10 – Using maths functions
|
Read: Week 7 Learning materials information Book reading, Pages 60 - 68 Complete exercises: Hands-on exercises 20,21,22 & 23 |
Portfolio of Complex Spreadsheets -Spreadsheet 3 Complete Consolidation Task 6, Pages 58-59 Due 11/3/20 Students will receive feedback in week 6. |
1.1-1.4 2.1-2.4 4.3,4.5 |
|
Week 6 March 16 |
Topic 11 – Charting and pictures in Excel Working on Assessment 2 – Part A- Cash Flow |
Read: Week 8 Learning materials information Book reading, Pages 69 - 83
Complete exercises: Hands-on exercises 24 -32 Consolidation Task 8, Page 83 |
Portfolio of Complex Spreadsheets -Spreadsheet 4 Complete Consolidation Task 7, Page 64 Due 18/3/20 Students will receive feedback in week 7. |
1.1-1.4 4.3-4.5 5.1-5.3 |
|
Week 7 March 23 |
Topic 12 – Using financial functions Topic 13 – Useful text functions Topic 14 – Working with data in tables
Working on Assessment 2 – Part A- Balance sheet
|
Read: Week 9 Learning materials information Book reading, Pages 84 - 94
Complete exercises: Hands-on exercises 33, 34 & 35 |
Portfolio of Complex Spreadsheets -Spreadsheet 5 Consolidation Task 8, Page 83 Due 25/3/20 Students will receive feedback in week 8. |
1.1-1.4 2.1-2.4 4.3,4.5 |
|
Week 8 March 30 |
Working on Assessment 2 – Part A Superannuation Model |
|
Portfolio of Complex Spreadsheets -Spreadsheet 6 Hands-on exercise 34, pages 89-90 Due 1/4/20 Students will receive feedback in week 9. |
1.1-4.5 |
|
Week 9 April 6 |
Working on Assessment 2 – Part A Assets Allocation |
|
1.1-4.5 |
|
| Mid-Semester Break | ||||
|
Week 10 April 20 |
Topic 15 – Creating PivotTables & Pivot Charts Topic 16 - Useful database functions Topic 17 – Importing and exporting data
|
Read: Week 10 & Week 11 Learning materials information Book reading, Pages 95 - 121
Complete exercises: Hands-on exercises 36 – 44 Consolidation Task 9, Page 121 |
|
1.1 - 1.4 2.1 – 2.4 4.1- 4.5
|
|
Week 11 April 27 |
Topic 19 - Tools for summarising data |
Read: Week 12 Learning materials information Book reading, Pages 122 - 149 Complete exercises: Hands-on exercises 45 – 58 Consolidation Task 10, Page 147 |
Spreadsheet 7 Complete Consolidation Task 9, Page 121 Due 29/4/20 Students will receive feedback in week 13. Submit Assessment – Workplace Simulated Project - Part A Due 3/5/20 Students will receive feedback in week 13. |
1.1 - 1.4 4.1-4.5
|
|
Week 12 May 4 |
Topic 20 – Conditional formatting Topic 21 - Creating macros
|
Read: Week 13 Learning materials information Book reading, Pages 148 - 168 Complete exercises: Hands-on exercises 59 – 70 Consolidation Task 11, Page 169 |
|
1.1-1.4 2.1-2.4 3.1-3.3 4.3,4.5 |
|
Week 13 May 11 |
Working on Assessment 2 – Part B |
Read: Assessment Help- How to lock formulas and protect data
Topics: -Lock formulas and protect data -Create template -Create Charts |
Portfolio of Complex Spreadsheets -Spreadsheet 8 Complete Consolidation Task 11, Page 169 Due 13/5/20 Students will receive feedback in week 15. |
3.1-5.3 |
|
Week 14 May 18 |
Working on Assessment Task- Workplace Simulated Project |
|
Submit Assessment– Workplace Simulated Project- Part B Due 24/5/20 Students will receive feedback in week 16. |
3.1-5.3 |
|
Week 15 May 25 |
Re-submissions |
|
|
|
|
Week 16 June 1 |
Re-submissions |
|
|
|
|
Week 17 June 8 |
Grade Entry |
|
|
|
The nominal hours associated with this are a guide only and represent the total teaching time and student effort required to successfully complete the course. This may include not only scheduled classes but also the amount of effort required to undertake, evaluate and complete all assessment requirements, including any non-classroom activities including the self - paced activities in the workbooks.
Learning Resources
Prescribed Texts
References
Other Resources
Online learning materials can be accessed by going into the RMIT's Learning Management System, Canvas.
The online learning materials listed may include:
- Course outlines
- Power point Presentations
- Supporting Reading material
- Industry relevant articles
- Activities.
Overview of Assessment
In order to achieve competency in this unit, you must provide:
Performance Evidence
Evidence of the ability to:
- follow organisational and safe work practices including:
- ergonomic requirements
- energy and resource conservation techniques
- adhere to organisational requirements for:
- ensuring consistency of style, design and layout
- saving and printing documents within designated timelines
- naming and storing documents
- adhere to identified or task requirements when producing documents including:
- editing macros and automating some tasks
- using appropriate templates
- creating graphs to represent data
- resolve issues by referring to user documentation and online help
- use appropriate data storage options
- evaluate tasks to improve efficiency
- apply knowledge of functions and features of contemporary computer applications
- communicate with relevant personnel
Knowledge Evidence
To complete the unit requirements safely and effectively, the individual must:
- explain advanced functions of spreadsheet software applications
- describe impact of formatting and design on presentation and readability of data
- explain organisational requirements for ergonomics, work periods and breaks, and conservation techniques.
Assessment Conditions
Assessment must be conducted in a safe environment where evidence gathered where evidence gathered demonstrates consistent performance of typical activities experienced in the information and communications technology – IT use field of work and include access to:
- organisational policies and procedures
- relevant workplace documentation and resources
- industry software packages and user instructions.
You are advised that you are likely to be asked to personally demonstrate your assessment work to your teacher to ensure that the relevant competency standards are being met.
Feedback
Feedback will be provided throughout the semester in class and/or online discussions. You are encouraged to ask and answer questions during class time and online sessions so that you can obtain feedback on your understanding of the concepts and issues being discussed. Finally, you can email or arrange an appointment with your teacher to gain more feedback on your progress.
You should take note of all feedback received and use this information to improve your learning outcomes and final performance in the course.
Assessment Tasks
You will demonstrate competency by undertaking two assessments. You must successfully complete all assessments to be deemed competent in this unit.
Assessment Task 1: Portfolio of Complex Spreadsheets
Due: Spreadsheet 1 Wed 26 Feb 2020; Spreadsheet 2 Wed, 4 Mar 2020; Spreadsheet 3 Wed, 11 Mar 2020; Spreadsheet 4 Wed, 18 Mar 2020; Spreadsheet 5 Wed, 25 Mar 2020; Spreadsheet 6 Wed, 1 Apr 2020; Spreadsheet 7 Wed, 29 Apr 2020; Spreadsheet 8 Wed, 13 May 2020
Summary and Purpose: This practical assessment will allow you to demonstrate your ability to plan, create and use spreadsheet; develop linked spreadsheet solutions and represent numerical data in graphic forms.
Assessment Instructions: For this assessment task you are required to produce a progressive individual portfolio comprised of eight practical exercises from your workbook: “Tilde Skills Develop and use complex spreadsheets:Excel 2013”
The aim of the practical activities is to enhance your understanding and skills with advanced spreadsheet functions using Excel, including spreadsheet skills, formulas, creating and editing templates, using lookup functions, charting and pictures, importing and exporting data, tools for summarising data and creating macros.
You must successfully complete all of the practical topics for this portfolio by the due date specified in the weekly schedule in order to satisfactorily achieve the criteria covered in this portfolio.
Assessment Task 2: Workplace Simulated Project
Part A Due: Sunday, 3 May 2020 (Week 11)
Part B Due: Sunday, 24 May 2020 (Week 14)
Summary and Purpose: Workplace simulated project consists of 2 tasks - Part A and Part B.
You will have access to a simulated client file, which will incorporate financial planning advice in Superannuation by producing financial planning spreadsheets that includes client(s) cash flows, assets and liability, superannuation account, assets allocation variance and recommended superannuation strategies to achieve client's goals.
Assessment Instructions: You are required to present a linked spreadsheet solution for your clients in the form of reports, tables, charts and create a macro which setup each report/sheet for printing.
The purpose of the assessment is to enable you to demonstrate a breadth of understanding across all of the course material at an independent level. It assesses the knowledge you have obtained through the undertaking the concepts of superannuation to prepare financial planning documents for the simulated clients in Ms Excel workbook using various of Ms Excel functions and features.
You must successfully complete all Parts: A and B by the due date specified in the weekly schedule in order to satisfactorily achieve the criteria covered in this project.
Assessment Matrix
The assessment matrix that maps all the assessment is available on Canvas.
Other Information
Submission Requirements
- Ensure that you submit assessments on or before the due date.
- Always retain a copy of your assessment tasks. (hard copy and soft copy)
- When you submit work for assessment at RMIT University you need to use the Assessment task document that includes a declaration and statement of authorship.
- Each page of your assessment should include a footer with your name, student number, the title of the assessment, unit code and title and page numbers.
Resubmissions (VET Programs)
If you are found to be unsuccessful (Not satisfactory/Unsatisfactory) in a Course Assessment Task you will be allowed one resubmission. Your teacher will provide feedback regarding what you need to do to improve and will set a new deadline for the resubmission.
If you are still not meeting the assessment requirements you must apply to your Program Manager in writing outlining the steps you will take to demonstrate competence in your course. Your submission will be considered by the Program Team and you will be advised of the outcome as soon as possible.
Penalties for Late Submission
Late submissions of assignments without special consideration or extension will automatically be considered a re-submission (see above).
Extensions, Special Consideration and Adjustment to Assessments
Extensions:
Extensions are available for unforeseen circumstances of a short-term nature.
An application form must be submitted to the school at least one working day before the due date of the assessment.
Extensions can be approved for a maximum of one week (seven calendar days) past the due date for an assessment. (Where students need an extension exceeding one week they must instead apply for special consideration.)
Special consideration:
Special consideration is available for unexpected circumstances outside students’ control. These include but are not limited to: unexpected short-term ill health, and unavoidable family, work, cultural or religious commitments.
An application for special consideration is made in advance of an assessment wherever possible but will normally be accepted within five working days after the assessment date
For more information, see the Special Consideration page of the RMIT website.
Adjustments to Assessment:
RMIT provides several adjustments to assessment for students experiencing ongoing or long-term circumstances. Find the right one for your circumstances here.
Changes to the Assessment Scheme
Where a change to assessment approved by the dean/head of school changes an assessment due date, students will be given at least five working days’ notice of the new due date.
Feedback
You can expect to receive marks and feedback on in-course assessment work in time to improve your performance in related assessment tasks later in the course.
Academic Integrity and Misconduct
Students demonstrate academic integrity in their assessment practices by:
- engaging with assessment activities in an honest way;
- providing accountability for the authorship and originality of work submitted;
- acknowledging the work of others and the re-use of original work.
Academic misconduct is addressed in accordance with the Student conduct policy
Assessment involving research with human participants, their information or their tissue, or animal subjects is carried out in accordance with the Staff ethics and integrity policy.
For further information see the Academic Integrity website.
Review and Appeal
A student may request a review of an assessment result or appeal a final course grade in accordance with the Conduct of assessment and appeals section of the Assessment Processes.
Grade Criteria
You must demonstrate that you have all the required skills/knowledge/elements in the unit of competency you are studying.
The following grades are available for this course.
CA - Competency Achieved
NYC - Not Yet Competent
DNS - Did Not Submit for assessment
Course Overview: Access Course Overview