It’s almost impossible to imagine a world before word processing. Software such as Microsoft Word saves time and effort of handwriting, typewriting, and correcting documents. Spreadsheet and database software works much the same miracle with numbers. If you have a career in finance or marketing, you likely use Microsoft Excel or Microsoft Access on a daily basis. If you are like the rest of us, however, you probably use these programs only occasionally to balance the budget or organize Christmas card mailings. In the classroom, spreadsheet and database use among all age groups is thriving as there are endless possibilities to support project-based learning. Some teachers use them seamlessly and well for instruction and projects; others use them merely as productivity tools for things like grade-books or attendance. As with any technology tool, if used wisely spreadsheet and database software can be powerful and versatile tools for learning.
This activity, complete with all supporting materials, is a an engaging example of using spreadsheets to help instill higher-order life skills. Students play the role of an admission committee for a university and evaluate 10 fictitious candidates. They graph and analyze their results and share their admission decisions with the class in a multimedia presentation format.
This activity, complete with all supporting materials, is a an engaging example of using spreadsheets to help instill higher-order life skills. Students play the role of an admission committee for a university and evaluate 10 fictitious candidates. They graph and analyze their results and share their admission decisions with the class in a multimedia presentation format.
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