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Course Profile   Information Technology in Business (BTX4E), Grade 12, Workplace Preparation, Public

 

Course Overview

Policy Document:  The Ontario Curriculum, Grades 11 and 12, Business Studies, 2000.

Prerequisite:  Information Technology Applications in Business, Grade 11, Open

Course Description

This course provides students with the opportunity to develop essential skills in information technology needed in the workplace. Students will learn about the impact of new technologies on business operations, the place of information technology in the globalization process, and the development of new ways of doing business electronically. Students will use advanced software features and functions, manage information, conduct electronic research for business tasks, and develop project team management skills.

Increasing reliance on computers, telecommunication networks, and information technologies in society and the workplace makes it essential for students to become computer literate and to develop information literacy. Information literacy is the ability to access, select, gather, critically evaluate, create, and communicate information and the ability to use the information to solve problems and make decisions. In preparation for further education, employment, citizenship, and lifelong learning, students must be able to derive meaning from information by using a variety of information literacy skills.

Course Notes

The field of E-business represents one of the fastest growing segments in the workplace. Information Technology in Business gives students the basic competencies necessary for entry-level skills for the workforce. The central themes of this Course Profile are teamwork, E-business, and electronic communications. The Course Profile introduces students to E-business and the competencies required in this dynamic area.

The premise used in mapping out this Course Profile is the facilitation of the student’s transition to the workplace. Unit 1 focuses on the strand Software Applications and Information Management, in combination with Electronic Research and Communication. Unit 2 involves The Electronic Workplace Environment strand. Teamwork is a theme for this Workplace Preparation course; the combination of teamwork, application, and research provides students with a hands-on practical approach. Unit 3 is based on the Electronic Project Management and Teamwork and The Electronic Workplace Environment strands. The Project Management and Teamwork strand continues through Units 4 and 5 in combination with Software Applications and Electronic Research. Preparation for Employment is addressed in Unit 6.

This Course Profile is a support document that presents only one of many possible ways for teachers to organize their course so students can acquire and demonstrate the skills and knowledge specified in the curriculum policy documents through the learning expectations. Teachers use the information presented in this Course Profile to refine, revise, and develop activities that accommodate the various learning styles and learning preferences of individual students and that respond to local needs.

Students work collaboratively throughout the course; therefore, addressing conflict management is important to student success. At the beginning of the course, the teacher should address this issue, emphasizing that not all conflicts can be resolved, but people can choose how to handle them. Steps to conflict resolution include: defining the conflict; stating the problem; checking your perceptions; generating and evaluating a list of possible decisions/alternatives; reaching a mutually acceptable decision; implementing and evaluating the decision. If the decision is satisfactory, students continue their work; if the decision is unsatisfactory, students repeat the process. Self-, peer, group, and teacher evaluation forms also help deflect conflict and solve problems. Assessment in this area applies to learning skills.

Safety is an important issue that the teacher should emphasize. Local board policy on trips governs the activities. Topics of discussion should include the environment, trip safety, online safety, ethics, legal requirements of working online, and interview safety (See Surf Right, www.tdcsb.org). Emphasize safety issues in part-time and summer jobs, as many students are either employed or looking for employment. An enthusiastic employee can be a safe and informed one. The teacher can consult safety resources, such as publications by The Ontario Ministry of Labour (see Resources).

The teacher refers to and makes use of the school's Guidance and Career Education Program Plan (Choices Into Action). This plan is available at Guidance/Student Services, at the principal’s office, or from the school’s Program Advisory Team. Students can utilize career-access software, such as Career Cruising and Career Explorer (see Resources) to explore job descriptions, working conditions, earnings, education, and career paths for jobs in information technology. Students should be aware of the dynamic nature of the cooperative learning experience and business career paths available to them.

The teacher should draw from their own experience as an employee to complement and authenticate activities. The teacher can encourage students to relate their personal experience in the workplace to the course content to better understand and apply course expectations. The teacher can identify and gain the participation of local businesses where possible. The teacher can develop an in-class display of community businesses and use existing partnerships established by their school board in conjunction with local industry; the teacher can access community business links that reflect the diversity of the local school community and use them as supplementary resources.

Units:  Titles and Time

** Unit 1

Software Application and Information Management

20 hours

Unit 2

The Electronic Workplace

  5 hours

* Unit 3

Managerial Infrastructure

25 hours

Unit 4

Managing Business Information with Emerging Technologies

25 hours

Unit 5

Business Documents

25 hours

Unit 6

Preparing for Careers in Information Technology

10 hours

* This unit is fully developed in this Course Profile.

** This unit is fully developed in the Catholic BTX4E Course Profile.

Note: The expectations in Unit 2: The Electronic Workplace have a close alignment to Unit 1: The E-Business Environment in BTX4C Public Profile; the developed Unit 1 is an additional resource.

Unit Overviews

Unit 1:  Software Application and Information Management

Time:  20 hours

Strands(s):  Software Applications and Information Management,
                        Electronic Research and Communication

Unit Description

Students build on the skills learned in the prerequisite course BTA3O. The unit makes use of the Internet and provides students with an opportunity to review, apply, and enhance software applications they have previously used. The teacher reviews the school’s acceptable Internet use policy and appropriate computer use. Students are given opportunities to demonstrate appropriate use of integrated software, to produce customized business documents, and to electronically manage information and business files.

In Cluster 1.1, students are given a business issue. To support a position, they gather data from the Internet and CD-ROMs that apply to the scenario/problem. The teacher reviews copyright, bias, and validity of information (The Information Assessor in the BTA3O Public Profile, Appendix 3.3.2.b, is one approach).

At the outset of Cluster 1.2, students set up their disk, disk space, and computer desktops with appropriate folders. The focus is the production of business documents required for a particular task. Using the information gathered in Cluster 1.1, students produce a business report using appropriate software. The teacher reminds students of the importance of a portfolio and notes that by organizing their folders into a working portfolio now it will be easier to produce their portfolio in Unit 6. The working portfolio holds the student’s work. The student work should have a clear purpose established by the teacher and student. The student and teacher select the contents of the portfolio (rough drafts, final work, best work, work that needs revision, schoolwork, or material from outside the school). In Unit 6, students evaluate the material in their working portfolios and produce showcase portfolios. The showcase portfolio displays the best work and exemplifies the competencies developed in this course (see Appendix 1 – The Portfolio).

In Cluster 1.3, students examine databases, spreadsheets, and time-management software and consider how a business might utilize these tools. The teacher and students examine an income-tax form using a spreadsheet template. Students compare the spreadsheet template with available income-tax software. The teacher leads a discussion to direct students in exploring the importance of various industry-standard time-management tools, along with some e-mail client software containing time-management functions.

Unit Overview Chart

Cluster

Learning Expectations

Assessment Categories

Focus/Time

1.1

ERV.01, ER1.01, ER1.02, ER1.03

Knowledge/Understanding

Thinking/Inquiry

Communication

Application

Internet Research

(5 hours)

1.2

SIV.01, SIV.02, SI1.01, SI1.02, SI1.03, SI2.03

Knowledge/Understanding

Thinking/Inquiry

Communication

Application

Business Documents

(5 hours)

1.3

SIV.02, SIV.03, ERV.01, SI2.01, SI2.02, SI3.03, ER1.04

Knowledge/Understanding

Thinking/Inquiry

Communication

Application

Spreadsheets, Databases, and Time Management

(10 hours)

 

Unit 2:  The Electronic Workplace

Time:  5 hours

Strand(s):  The Electronic Workplace Environment

Unit Description

Students assess new developments in core technologies, global communication, networks, and electronic business. They analyse ways in which current information technology has changed personal and business relationships from the local level to the global level.

Cluster 2.1 is an Internet research assignment; students research new developments in core technologies, global communication networks, and electronic business. Students summarize their findings into chart format. From the researched information, students create a report or electronic presentation on the impact of new developments in information technology on business operations. Students include forecasts for innovations in information technology for the next five years (See Appendix 2 – Bibliography for Internet Sources). (See BTX4C Public for assessment tools, including Electronic Presentation Rubric and Presentation Content Checklist.)

In Cluster 2.2, the teacher leads a class discussion, directing students to opportunities for both businesses and individuals that were created by information technology. Students complete a PMI
(Plus-Minus- Interesting) chart for conducting business electronically. (See BTX4C Public Profile for a PMI Chart.)

Unit Overview Chart

Cluster

Learning Expectations

Assessment Categories

Focus/Time

2.1

EWV.01, EW1.01, EW1.02, EW1.03

Knowledge/Understanding

Thinking/Inquiry

Communication

Application

New Developments in Information Technology

(3 hours)

2.2

EWV.02, EW2.01, EW2.02, EW2.03

Knowledge/Understanding

Thinking/Inquiry

Communication

Application

The Impact of Information Technology on Management

(2 hours)

 

Unit 3:  Managerial Infrastructure

Time:  25 hours

Strand(s):  Electronic Project Management and Teamwork, The Electronic Workplace Environment

Unit Description

The theme of this unit is threefold. The first is teamwork, the second is the impact technology has on changing the conditions of work, and the third is the synergy created by this technology and its effect on teamwork. Students are given opportunities to analyse the team process in an electronic environment and demonstrate the use of project-management strategies and teamwork skills when working in different locations. Students demonstrate an understanding of the impact of information technology on a company’s management functions and create a strategic plan related to the use of information technology in business.

In Cluster 3.1, students explore the concepts of teamwork and project management. Students compare the project team process in both electronic and non-electronic environments. The teacher introduces the concept of project management. From this examination, students are able to identify and list the characteristics and requirements of managers and team members. Students examine technology, with particular emphasis on how it changes the way people work, especially when members of a team work in different locations.

Cluster 3.2 develops the knowledge and skills learned in Cluster 3.1. Students concentrate on developing the ability to choose appropriate software for a task. Students describe the management functions of a company and demonstrate how to use information technology for management purposes. The teacher enables students to recognize the limitations of differing levels of technology and how to work within those parameters.

In Cluster 3.3, students analyse the ingredients of a strategic plan with reference to the adequacy of technology, the plan itself, and its purpose. Students are involved in the creation of a strategic plan, its timeline, the information requirements, and its importance for a small enterprise. The teacher and students create a simple plan to introduce the process of strategic planning, e.g., a five-year computer purchase plan (see integrated software packages for templates).

Unit Overview Chart

Cluster

Learning Expectations

Assessment Categories

Focus/Time

3.1

PMV.01, PMV.03, PM1.01, PM1.02, PM1.03, PM1.04, PM1.05, PM3.01, PM3.02

Knowledge/Understanding

Thinking/Inquiry

Communication

Application

The Team Process

 

(10 hours)

3.2

EWV.03, EW3.01, EW3.02, EW3.03, EW3.04, EW3.05

Knowledge/Understanding

Thinking/Inquiry

Communication

Application

The Impact of Information Technology on Project Management

 

(5 hours)

3.3

EWV.04, EW4.01, EW4.02, EW4.03, EW4.04

Knowledge/Understanding

Thinking/Inquiry

Communication

Application

Investigate the Strategic Plans

 

(10 hours)

 

Unit 4:  Managing Business Information with Emerging Technologies

Time:  25 hours

Strand(s):  Electronic Project Management and Teamwork, Software Applications
                        and Information Management, Electronic Research and Communication

Unit Description

Central to this unit is the concept of electronic communication using a variety of productivity software packages. Students have an opportunity to coordinate any number of people at a local or global level. Electronic project management enables sharing of the project at any point of its evolution to any party. Students use the strategic plan concepts investigated in Unit 3 to develop a fully operable strategic plan. Students demonstrate, as team members, the production of an electronic product that will be shared externally. Students demonstrate the use of project-management strategies and teamwork skills when working in different locations, how to produce customized business documents, and the communication of research results in a multi-page business report that integrates a variety of software applications.

Cluster 4.1 familiarizes students with a host of electronic communication tools that permit the joint development of a project with team members who may be anywhere on the planet. Students review productivity software and engage their use with a project team approach that results in a small-scale report and an electronic presentation. Students use project-management tools to guide their progress during the development of this presentation.

In Cluster 4.2, students are introduced to the use of financial-planning tools. The teacher also introduces comparative-analysis software (industry-standard integrated software packages contain templates).

Cluster 4.3 focuses on the development of a number of teacher-led projects. Students work in teams to produce a series of multi-page business reports from appropriate integrated software. Projects could focus on the components of a business plan; students could then apply their learning to their production of a complete business plan in Unit 5.

Unit Overview Chart

Cluster

Learning Expectations

Assessment Categories

Focus/Time

4.1

PMV.02, PM2.01, PM2.02, PM2.03, PM3.03, PM3.04

Knowledge/Understanding
Thinking/Inquiry
Communication
Application

Electronic Presentation

(7 hours)

4.2

SIV.03, SI3.01

Knowledge/Understanding
Thinking/Inquiry
Communication
Application

Financial Planning Tools

(5 hours)

4.3

ERV.02, ER2.01, ER2.02, ER2.03

Knowledge/Understanding

Thinking/Inquiry

Communication

Application

Business Reports

(13 hours)

 

Unit 5:  Business Documents

Time:  25 hours

Strand(s):  Software Applications and Information Management,
                        Electronic Research and Communication

Unit Description

Students are given the opportunity to demonstrate the use of project-management strategies and teamwork skills when working in different locations, to demonstrate the appropriate use of electronic financial-planning tools for personal and workplace applications, and to demonstrate the use of appropriate electronic tools to communicate with others. The business plan is the focus in this unit. Students use many of the skills developed in the previous unit to produce and present a business plan.

In Cluster 5.1, student teams must choose a business to open. The teacher directs the teams to a business plan template in their word processor. Once the team has examined the format and content of a business plan, the team uses a variety of search engines to research businesses similar to the one they have chosen (i.e., competitors). Using their research, the team completes a business plan that includes appropriate financial information.

In Cluster 5.2, students communicate the highlights of their business plans. A website project is recommended. Students create a website, then e-mail the address to other members of the class for viewing or peer assessment. Students transmit their documents to a free hosting website or to a drive on the school’s network. A simple e-mail link can meet the expectation requirements.

Unit Overview Chart

Cluster

Learning Expectations

Assessment Categories

Focus/Time

5.1

SIV.03, ERV.01, SI3.02, ER1.01, ER1.02

Knowledge/Understanding

Thinking/Inquiry

Communication

Application

Utilize a Financial Business Plan

(10 hours)

5.2

ERV.03, ER3.01, ER3.02, ER3.03

Knowledge/Understanding

Thinking/Inquiry

Communication

Application

Communicating the Plan on the Web

(15 hours)

 

Unit 6:  Preparing for Careers in Information Technology

Time:  10 hours

Strand(s):  Preparation for Employment

Unit Description

Students are given the opportunity to apply the steps required to complete a job search, assess their information technology skills and competencies, and create a career plan electronically. Students use a variety of media sources to complete a job search. Students assess their information technology skills and create a career plan.

In Cluster 6.1, students use electronic research tools to conduct a search; they identify career opportunities in the information technology sector and other fields that require IT skills. Students electronically prepare a resume, letter of application, and interview follow-up letter. Students use the Internet to research components of the interview and presentation process; they then create, electronically, a multimedia interview presentation.

In Cluster 6.2, students research the Conference Board of Employability Skills Profile, The National Guideline for Youth Entrepreneurship Education and Training, and the Blueprint for Life/Work Designs. Students classify their information technology skills and summarize them electronically. Using the working portfolio started in Unit 1, students evaluate and select samples for a showcase portfolio for interview purposes.

In Cluster 6.3, the teacher reviews the components of a career plan. Students electronically create a career plan. The teacher leads a discussion, explaining the importance of continuing education as it relates to career areas that use information technology.

Unit Overview Chart

Cluster

Learning Expectations

Assessment Categories

Focus/Time

6.1

PEV.01, PE1.01, PE1.02, PE1.03, PE1.04

Knowledge/Understanding

Thinking/Inquiry

Communication

Application

Information Technology Opportunities

 

(3 hours)

6.2

PEV.02, PE2.01, PE2.02, PE2.03, PE2.04

Knowledge/Understanding

Thinking/Inquiry

Communication

Application

Information Technology Skills

 

(3 hours)

6.3

PEV.03, PE3.01, PE3.02, PE3.03

Knowledge/Understanding

Thinking/Inquiry

Communication

Application

Career Plan

 

(4 hours)

 

Teaching/Learning Strategies

There is a conscious quest for a balance of traditional modelling of skills and knowledge, a blend of small-group and individual practice, and individual exploration in this Course Profile. Pedagogy Resources and the Ontario Curriculum Unit Planner provide detailed explanations of strategies.

Assessment & Evaluation of Student Achievement

Teachers should employ assessment strategies frequently throughout the course in order to communicate the expectations of the course to students, to make appropriate adjustments to teaching and learning strategies as required, and to accommodate the special needs of students. Teachers should welcome and value students’ input to the assessment process.

Marking schemes and rubrics used for evaluation should include the Achievement Chart categories as applicable. The teacher can evaluate a single student-generated product or process under multiple categories: Knowledge and Skills, Thinking/Inquiry, Communication, and Application. The teacher’s record keeping could require separate marks for each of the four categories it addresses.

The following chart matches assessment tools with Achievement Chart categories.

Knowledge/ Understanding

Thinking/Inquiry

Communication

Application

·         Tests

·         Quizzes

·         Interviews

·         Electronic research

·         Interviews

·         Electronic Research

·         Projects

·         Assignments

·         Portfolio

·         Projects

·         Presentations

·         Assignments

·         Case study

·         Business report

·         Strategic plan

·         Multi-page report

·         Business plan

·         Resume

·         Letter of application

·         Assignments

 

Assessment Techniques

·         Share the rubrics for culminating activities at the beginning of the unit, so expectations are clear for students and to support the learning in all activities in the unit.

·         Develop rubrics with students, or involve them in translating them into student language.

·         Emphasize the language of assessment and evaluation in your discussions with students.

·         Provide sample work demonstrating achievement at different levels for students.

·         Provide different opportunities to assess the achievement of the expectations.

·         Provide opportunities for self- and peer assessment as formative assessment to support and improve student learning.

·         Provide multiple opportunities for students to demonstrate their achievement of expectations.

·         Provide opportunities for students to retry assignments until they can demonstrate their learning.

·         Develop tests that provide opportunities to demonstrate all categories on the Achievement Chart
(not just knowledge) at all levels.

·         Give practice tests as an opportunity for formative assessment.

·         Use assessment tools that are appropriate for the expectations and related to the categories on the Achievement Chart.

·         Provide prompt feedback so that students can use it to improve their learning.

·         Design a variety of assessment tasks to address different learning styles.

·         Provide choices in activities/assessment tasks to accommodate the diverse needs of learners.

·         Provide opportunities for students to track their own progress.

Assessment Purposes

Assessment may be diagnostic, formative, or summative. Diagnostic assessment includes informal observation checklists, quizzes, and class question-and-answer periods. The following strategies and tools are for both formative and summative purposes.

Method

Strategy

Tool

Paper-and-pencil

Test

- selected response

- true/false

- constructed response

Marking scheme

Performance task

Oral presentation

Electronic presentation

Portfolio

Strategic plan

Rubric

Checklist

Personal communication

Student/teacher conference

Classroom question and answer

Rating scale

Anecdotal record

 

Final Course Evaluation

Seventy per cent of the grade will be based on assessments and evaluations conducted throughout the course. Thirty per cent of the grade will be based on a final evaluation in the form of an examination, performance, essay, and/or other method of evaluation. The teacher ensures that a student’s most consistent performance level is reflected in his/her final mark. The teacher also provides a variety of opportunities for students to demonstrate their achievement. All or part of the final evaluation could be based on the rich performance tasks that make up Unit 5. (This suggestion is not prescriptive; it provides a focus of assessment directly linked to students’ learning.)

Accommodations

Teachers should consult individual student IEPs for specific direction on accommodation for individuals. This allows teachers to effectively implement the prescribed modifications. Teachers have a store of good practices they commonly use to enable the learning for all students in their classes. The following are common, frequently-used strategies listed according to exceptionalities to reaffirm the good teaching practices found in Ontario classrooms.

 

Reading

·         Read questions first.

·         Modify reading requirements.

·         Use reading partners.

·         Pre-teach concepts/vocabulary.

·         Highlight notes.

·         Use visuals.

Written Language

·         Vary assignments.

·         Give explicit instructions.

·         Allow more time.

·         Provide photocopied notes.

·         Allow point-form notes and graphic organizers.

·         Use peer editing.

·         Teach spell/grammar check.

 

ESL/ELD Accommodations

·         English-speaking students can help ESL classmates by repeating, rephrasing, and writing words down.

·         Bilingual tutors, if available, can facilitate clarification in the first language.

·         Encourage ESL students to use their own language for clarification and explanation.

·         Provide students with a summary sheet to use at the end of each class (with teacher assistance) to list main terms or concepts that were the focus of the lesson.

·         Make overheads of handouts on which the teacher highlights important terms, explains words, and clarifies instructions, etc., while students do the same on their copy.

·         Provide a glossary of terms for the reading.

·         Encourage the use of first-language dictionaries for assignments and assessments.

Enrichment Accommodations

The teacher can challenge the learner through product and process. The expectations cannot be changed or added to. The teacher can enrich the learning experience by:

·         requiring multiple and sophisticated forms of communication;

·         encouraging and reinforcing the application of abstract thinking skills to complex content, resulting in a sophisticated product;

·         integrating cross-curricular activities;

·         fostering in-depth learning of a self-selected topic within the expectation requirements;

·         being aware that students may be gifted in one area and not in others;

·         encouraging and using the DECA™ and Ontario Business Educators Association (OBEA) contests;

·         allowing students to demonstrate mastery of content through preferred style of learning;

·         motivating students to synthesize course content with their own experiences and ideas.

Resources

Units in this Course Profile make reference to the use of specific texts, magazines, films, videos, and websites. The teachers need to consult their board policies regarding use of any copyrighted materials. Before reproducing materials for student use from printed publications, teachers need to ensure that their board has a Cancopy licence and that this licence covers the resources they wish to use. Before screening videos/films with their students, teachers need to ensure that their board/school has obtained the appropriate public performance videocassette licence from an authorized distributor, e.g., Audio Cine Films Inc. The teachers are reminded that much of the material on the Internet is protected by copyright. The copyright is usually owned by the person or organization that created the work. Reproduction of any work or substantial part of any work from the Internet is not allowed without the permission of the owner.

The URLs for the websites were verified by the writers prior to publication. Given the frequency with which these designations change, teachers should always verify the websites prior to assigning them for student use.

Pedagogy

Print

Bennett, B., Carol Rolheiser-Bennett, and Laurie Stevahn. Cooperative Learning Where Heart Meets Mind. Toronto: Educational Connections, 1991. ISBN 0-4444-555-6

Gibbs, Jeanne. Tribes: A Process for Social Development and Cooperative Learning. Santa Rosa, 1996. ISBN 0-932762-08-5

Internet

Innovation Teaching – www.interserf.net/mcken/teacher.htm

Interactive Curriculum – www.interactivecurriculum.com (numerous activities and assessment tools)

Microsoft – www.microsoft.com/trademarks/t-mark/g-lines.htm (There may be appropriate situations where you may claim that your product, services, or book are “for use with,” “for,” or “compatible with” our product(s). For example, there are specific guidelines prepared to assist you in referring to this type of compatibility for Microsoft® Windows® XE, Windows NT®, and Windows®.)

Pedagonet – www.pedagonet.com (an innovative search engine, which facilitates the exchange of learning resources)

Premier Tracks – http://4teachers.org/premier/ (collection of K-12 web-based lessons for a variety of subject areas created by SCR*TEC’s TrackStar)

School Net ‑ www.schoolnet.org (This site is dedicated to serving the interests of students, parents, and educators regarding every facet of education.)

Teacher Talk – www.mightymedia.com/ttalk (discussion area for teachers related to technology instruction)

Safety

Live Safe! Work Smart! Health And Safety Resources for Ontario Secondary School Teachers. Queen’s Printer for Ontario, 2000. ISBN 0-7794-0226-X. Ministry of Labour Publications Department. Telephone: 1-416-326-7731

Unit 1: Software Applications and Information Management

Internet Searching and Site Evaluation

CMIS Evaluation – www.eddept.wa.edu.au/centoff/cmis/eval/technology/usenet/use06.htm (complete index of sites devoted to evaluating Internet content and sites)

Evaluating Internet Resources – www.library.albany.edu/internet/evaluate.html

Evaluating Web Resources – www2.widener.edu/Wolfgram-Memorial-Library/webeval.htm

Introduction To Searching The Web – www.library.ubc.ca/home/websearch/#formore

Portfolio – www.portfolio.ca (examples)

Searching the Internet: Recommended Sites and Search Techniques
– www.albany.edu/library/internet/search.html

The Spider’s Apprentice – www.monash.com/spidap.html (tips for efficient web searches)

Ten C’s for Evaluating Internet Sources – www.uwec.edu/Admin/Library/Guides/tencs.html

The 10 Commandments For Computer Ethics – from the Computer Ethics Florida Atlantic Institute
– www.fau.edu/netiquette/net/ten.html

Print

Blanc, Iris. Learning Computer Applications for Business. New York, NY: DDC Publishing, distributed by Monarch Books, 1997.

Bucki, Lisa. Business Simulations with Microsoft Office 2000. New York, NY: DDC Publishing, distributed by Monarch Books, 1999. ISBN 1-56243-8661-1

Darby, Grant, Lori Guest, Marion Spino, and Alan Switzer. Managing ITC Projects in Business. Hamilton: Norbry Publishing Limited, 2002. ISBN 1-552332-073-1, Workbook ISBN 1-55232-079-0

Hefferin, Linda and Suzanne Weixel. Learning Microsoft Office 2000: Advanced Skills. New York, NY: DDC Publishing, Inc., 2001. ISBN 1562437747

Parsons, June Jamrich and Dan Oja. Computer Concepts, 4th ed. Cambridge: Thomson Learning, 2000.

Unit 2: The Electronic Workplace

Print

Brady,V., J. Ellerby, and L. Pinto. Insights. Toronto/Vancouver: Irwin Publishing, 2001.
ISBN 2-89310-876-8

Katsarpoloulos, C., K. Berkemeyer, D. Mayo, and C. Vesecky. Learning the Internet for Business. New York, NY: DDC Publishing, distributed by Monarch Books, 2001. ISBN 156243587-6

Gibbs, Jeanne. Tribes: A Process for Social Development and Cooperative Learning. Santa Rosa, 1996. ISBN 0-932762-08-5 (step-by-step processes for developing social competence and globally accepted character attributes, problem solving skills, autonomy, and sense of purpose)

Shepard, R. Computer Concepts. St. Paul, MN: Paradigm Publishing, 1998. ISBN 1-56118-931-6

Internet

Canada Customs and Revenue Agency – www.ccra-adrc.gc.ca/careers/search/menu-e.html

Institute for Information Technology – www.iit.nrc.ca/english.html

IT opportunities US – www.ntia.doc.gov/otiahome/top/

Public Service Commission of Canada IT Careers – http://jobs.gc.ca/it-ti/index_e.htm

The World Information Technology and Services Alliance – www.witsa.org

Unit 3: Managerial Infrastructure

Bangs Jr., David H. The Marketing Planning Guide, 5th ed. Dearborn, Michigan: Upstart Publishing Company, 1998.

Unit 4: Managing Business Information with Emerging Technologies

Print

Bucki, Lisa A. and Judy Fischer. Learning Computer Applications: Projects and Exercises. Downsview: Monarch Books, 1999.

How to Prepare a Business Plan for Service Businesses. Toronto: Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Technology, 1989.

Internet

Canadian Bankers Association – http://ourwworld.compuserve.com/home

Canadian Business Services Centre – www.cbsc.org (sample business plans for a variety of sectors)

Canadian Foundation for Consumer Information (Government of Canada) for Economic Education
– www.consumerinformatioon.ca

Canadian Youth Business Foundation – www.yourmoney.cab.ca www.cyba.ca

Changemakers – www.changemakers.net

Fleetkids – www.fleetkids.com

Getting Started in Small Business (Canadian Bankers Association)
– www.cba.ca/eng/Tools/Brochures/tools_small.cfm

Industry Canada – www.strategis.ic.gc.ca

Moneyopolis – www.moneyopolis.org

National Institute of Consumer Education (NICE) – www.nice.emich.edu

Quicken – www.quicken.com

Realm – Creating the Work you Want – www.realm.net

Royal Bank of Canada – www.royalbank.com

Unit 5:  Business Documents

WebPage Development

Desktoppublishing.Com – www.desktoppublishing.com (free images and templates for web pages)

HTML Tutorials – www.bfree.on.ca
(This website, created by John C. Gilson, a Mathematics Department Head at Pauline Johnson Collegiate in Brantford, teaches people to design their own websites.)

In and Out of the Classroom With Microsoft Publisher
– www.microsoft.com/education/curric/pub98/website.htm (creating websites with MS Publisher 98)

Learning and Using Netscape Composer – www.bama.ua.edu/%7eray011/composer.htm

MSDN Online Web Workshop – http://msdn.microsoft.com/workshop
(This site provides online workshops for webpage developers using the Internet Explorer browser.)

Netscape Developer – http://developer.netscape.com/docs/manuals/ (documentation for developers)

Web Developer’s Site – www.wdvl.com (images, graphics, and design tips)

Website Development – www.fg-a.com (images, webpage design, and programming)

Free WebPage Posting

Angelfire – www.angelfire.com

Geocities – www.geocities.com/

Tripod – www.tripod.com

One Stop – http://home.onestop.net/

Print

Bix, Cynthia, et al. Kids do the Web. San Jose, CA: Adobe Press, 1996.

Cashman, Gary B., Thomas J. Cashman, and Miccahel L. Mick. Front Page 2000 - Essential Concepts and Techniques. Cambridge, MA: Thomson Learning, 2000. ISBN 0-7895-5773-8

Cram, Carol M. World Wide Web. North Vancouver, BC: Capilano College, 1997.

Lamb, Annette. The Magic Carpet Ride, 2nd ed. Emporia, Kansas: Prepublication Printing, 1998.

Learning Macromedia Flash 5. New York, NY: DDC Publishing, distributed by Monarch Books, 2001. ISBN 1585771473

Kitto, Rick and Rob Scott. Hyperstudio. London, ON: KS Publications, 1998.

Kitto, Rick and Rob Scott. Internet Web Pages for Teachers and Students with JavaScript. London, ON: KS Publications, 1997.

Kitto, Rick and Rob Scott. Easy Web Pages With Netscape Communicator. London, ON: KS Publications, 1999.

Norton, Peter. Peter Norton’s Essential Concepts. Toronto: Glencoe/McGraw-Hill, 1999.

O’Hara, Shelley. Learning Computer Concepts. New York, NY: DDC Publishing Inc., distributed by Monarch Books, 2001. ISBN 1-58577-047-7

Parsons, June Jamrich and Dan Oja. Computer Concepts, 3rd ed. Cambridge, MA: Thompson Learning, 2000. ISBN 0-619-01732-5

Perkins, Joyce and Jernigan. Activities for the Internet: An Introduction. Cincinnati: South-Western Educational Publishing, 1998.

Poindexter, Sandra. E-Course Netscape Navigator. Cambridge, MA: Course Technology, 1997.

Robbins, Curt. Learning HTML 4.0. New York, NY: DCC Publishing Inc., 2001. ISBN 1562439618

Stevenson, Nancy. Learning E-Commerce: Business Analysis & Design. New York, NY: DDC Publishing Inc., distributed by Monarch Books, 2001. ISBN 1585770574

How to Prepare a Business Plan for Service Businesses. Toronto: Ministry of Industry, Trade and Technology, 1989.

Business Plans

BDO Dunwoody – www.smallbusiness.ca

Business Development Bank of Canada – www.bdc.ca/bdc/home/Default.asp

Business Plan, Queen’s University – http://qged.com/research/cases/sample.

The Canada-Ontario Business Service Centre (COBSC) – http://www.cbsc.org/ontario/

CanadaOne – www.canadaone.com (interactive business plans, business plan links, and checklists to assist in assessing each point against your business plan)

Canadian Franchise Association – www.cfa.ca/members_index.html

Home Business Report – www.homebusinessreport.com

Industry Canada’s extensive online business – www.stratgis.ic.ca (Access Strategis)

Management – www.managementmag.com

Profit Magazine – www.profitguide.com

Unit 6: Preparing for Careers in Information Technology

Print

Murphy, T., D. Notman, and J. Wilson. The World of Business. Scarborough: Thomson Learning, 2001. ISBN 0-17-620140-8

O’Hara, S. Learning Computer Concepts. New York, NY: DDC Publishing, distributed by Monarch Books, 2001. ISBN 1-58577-047-7

OSSTF/FEESO. Quality Assessment: Fitting The Pieces Together. Toronto: OSSTF Educational Services Committee, 1999. ISBN 0-920930-47-6 (pp. 150-156 for portfolio management)

Electronic

Canada Work InfoNet, The Interview – www.workinfonet.ca/cwn/english/index.cfm?cat=1&sub=5

Canadian Youth Foundation – www.cyfa.ca

Canjobs.com – www.canjobs.com (Canadian employment search network)

Career Circuit – www.theccircuit.org

Career Competency – www.psychometrics.com/onlinetesst/onlinetesting
(questionnaire and work styles inventory)

Career Cruising – www.careercruising.com

Career Journal – http://jobstar.org/tools/resume/

Career Plan Information – www.mapping-your-future.org/planning/careerpl.htm

Career Span – www.careerspan.com/

Careerclick.Com – www.careerclick.com (career resources, job postings, and company profiles)

Conference Board of Canada
– www2.conferenceboard.ca/education/learning-tools/employability-skills.htm

Cx Bridges Canada – http://cdn.cx.bridges.com (general career information)

Entrepreneurship and Self Employment – www.on.hrdc-drhc.gc.ca/hamilton/english/work/entre.html

Human Resource Development – www.hrdc-drhc.gc.caanada

Human Resources Development Canada, job futures 2000
– www11.hrdc-drhc.gc.ca/doc/jf/part2 (labour market trends and information on careers)

Ministry of Education: Resume Writing / Careers / Job Search
– www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/career/resume.html
– http://www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/career/intervie.html

National Lifework Center Blue Print for Life/Work Designs
– http://lifework.ca/blue_2000/pr_blue_draft.htm

Ontario College Application Service – www.ocas.on.ca (links to all colleges in Ontario)

Portfolio.ca – www.portfolio.ca/ (examples)

The University Application Service – www.ouac.on.ca (links to all universities)

US Career – www.careerbuilder.com (resume writing and career sites)

Workopolis – www.workopolis.com (technology career information and job postings)

Youth Employment Information – www.youth.gc.ca/index_e.shtml

Youth Resource Network of Canada – http://207.61.100.12/jobsearc/interv_e.shtml
(interview techniques)

Videos

Teacher’s Video Company (1-800-262-8837)

Using the Internet for Research. 35 min. Item#utif.

Careers, Preparing for Your Future. 25 min. Item#cpff.

How Computers Work. 26 min. Item#hcwo.

Technology Unplugged. 17 min. Item#tunp.

The Skills You Need to Get a Job. 22 min. Item#sngj.

Criminals in Cyberspace. 50 min. Item#cicy.

The Future of the Internet. 60 min. Item#tweb.

OSS Considerations

The Ontario Curriculum, Grades 11 and 12, Business Studies, 2000.

The Ontario Curriculum, Grades 9 to 12, Choices Into Action: Guidance and Career Education Program Policy for Ontario Elementary and Secondary Schools, 1999.

The Ontario Curriculum, Grades 9 to 12, Program Planning and Assessment, 2000.

Ontario Secondary Schools, Grades 9 to 12, Program and Diploma Requirements, 1999.


Appendix 1

The Portfolio

 

The Working Portfolio

The working portfolio is not just a collection of the student’s work. The portfolio has a clear purpose: to store and organize student work for subsequent units or the Culminating Project. Students need teacher direction on the pieces of work to be stored or used in future units. The teacher and students establish the form of the portfolio and select the contents of the portfolio (rough drafts, best work, work that needs revisions, school material, or material from outside the school). Rubrics and other assessment tools are maintained in the portfolio. At the end of each unit, the teacher/students determine the work to be placed in the portfolio. Students attach the cover sheet.

Portfolio Item Cover Sheet

Date:

Item:

Why I chose this item for my portfolio:

Strengths shown:

How I could improve:

Assessed by:

Assessment tool used:

Other options are a working portfolio that progresses to either a showcase portfolio used to display the best work or an assessment portfolio used to document achievement of learning expectations.

 

Portfolio Checklist

(The checklist becomes a formative assessment tool for the student).

Superior Portfolio Performance

 

Extensions of assigned activities are done.

 

Applications of concepts are enhanced wherever possible.

 

Portfolio is stored in more than one medium.

Proficient Portfolio Performance

 

Extensions of assigned activities are done with assistance.

 

All errors are corrected.

 

Applications of concepts are occasionally enhanced.

Adequate Portfolio Performance

 

Assigned activities are completed.

 

Initial errors are corrected.

 

Applications of concepts are evident.

Limited Portfolio Performance

 

Assigned activities are not completed.

 

Initial errors, which have been pointed out, are not corrected.

 

Gaps exist in the applications of concepts.

Portfolio inspection/assessment should be an ongoing process. The assessment tools should be kept in an archive that reflects progress. The Portfolio Archive tracks the ongoing portfolio assessment


Appendix 1  (Continued)

 

Portfolio Inspection/Assessment Tool starts with the highest category. The hope is that the student will aspire to the first set of criteria. The tool can be used for both formative and summative assessment, but the items do not tie to expectations, rather they apply only to learning skills.

 

Portfolio Inspection/Assessment Tool

Superior Portfolio Performance

 

The portfolio is clearly organized and exciting to look through.

 

The work demonstrates creative and insightful mastery of concepts and tools.

 

Unique techniques are used to store the portfolio.

 

Makes elegant and precise correction of all errors.

 

Self-evaluation reflects a desire to excel in the subject.

Proficient Portfolio Performance

 

The portfolio is organized and easy to look through.

 

The work demonstrates perceptive use and comprehensive mastery of concepts and tools.

 

Storage method is clean and attractive.

 

All errors are corrected.

 

Self-evaluation reflects a desire to succeed in the subject.

Adequate Portfolio Performance

 

The portfolio is complete and organized.

 

The work demonstrates appropriate use of concepts and tools.

 

Basic requirements are met for the storage method.

 

Most of the errors are corrected.

 

Self-evaluation reflects a desire to succeed some of the time.

Limited Portfolio Performance

 

The portfolio is unorganized, messy, or hard to look through.

 

The work demonstrates limited mastery of concepts and tools.

 

Storage method problems are not solved.

 

Few errors are corrected.

 

Self-evaluation does not reflect a desire to improve in the subject.

 

Comments:

Assessed by:

Date:


Appendix 2

Bibliography for Internet Sources

 

MLA Style and APA Style are two accepted methods of citing online reference databases, such as eLibrary Canada, as well as professional and personal websites.

 

MLA Style (Modern Languages Association)

Source Type

Format

Example

Magazine Citation from eLibrary Canada

Author. “Title.” Publication. Version Number (if Provided) Date Published. Name of Subscription Service. Name and City of Library. Date Retrieved URL.

Cox, Cindy. “Ozone – Solution to Indoor Air Quality Problems? (Panel Discussion).” Journal of Environmental Health 61 September 1998:1. ELibrary Canada. Mowat High School Lib, Toronto, ON. 10 July 2001 <http://www.elibrarry.ca/education>.

Professional Website

Title of Professional Website. Information Supplier. Date Retrieved URL.

Faculty of Arts and Science Page. University of Toronto. 25 May 1999 <http://artsandsciences.utoronto.ca/>

Personal Website

Author. Title of Personal Website. Date Retrieved URL.

Severson, Larry. Optimizing National Education. 5 May 1999 <http://www.opnated.org/>.

 

 

 

APA Style (American Psychological Association)

Source Type

Format

Example

Magazine Citation from eLibrary Canada

Author. Date Published. Title. Publication. Version number (if provided. Date retrieved name of Subscription Service: URL.

Benady, S. (1998). Drug cost sharing can aggravate patient non-compliance. Medical Post, 22-23. Retrieved October 2, 2000 from elibrary Canada: http://www.elibrary.ca/educcation.

Professional and Personal Websites

Author. Date Published. Title. Date Retrieved URL.

Tom, J. (1999). ABC Report on Internet Usage. Retrieved March 8, 2001 from http://www.usagereports.com.

Teacher Note on Preferred Style:

 


Coded Expectations, Information Technology in Business, Grade 12, Workplace Preparation, BTX4E

The Electronic Workplace Environment

Overall Expectations

EWV.01 · assess new developments in core technologies, global communication networks, and electronic business;

EWV.02 · analyse ways in which current information technology has changed personal and business relationships from the local level to the global level;

EWV.03 · demonstrate an understanding of the impact of information technology on a company’s management functions;

EWV.04 · create a strategic plan related to the use of information technology in business.

Specific Expectations

New Developments in Information Technology

EW1.01 – describe new developments in core technologies, global communication networks, and electronic business;

EW1.02 – summarize the impact of new developments in information technology on business operations (e.g., on production, information management, data warehousing) and the workplace;

EW1.03 – forecast innovations in information technology that will have an impact on business operations and environments within the next five years.

The Impact of Information Technology on Business

EW2.01 – describe situations in which information technology has created opportunities for businesses to expand globally;

EW2.02 – explain how information technology has affected the way in which individuals obtain information and transact business;

EW2.03 – summarize the advantages and disadvantages of conducting business electronically.

The Impact of Information Technology on Management

EW3.01 – demonstrate the use of appropriate software (e.g., flowchart, drawing, design) to illustrate a variety of organizational structures;

EW3.02 – describe the management functions of a company;

EW3.03 – summarize the impact of information technology on the management functions of a company;

EW3.04 – demonstrate an understanding of how business uses information technology for management purposes;

EW3.05 – compare, electronically, the different uses of information technology in high- and low-technology businesses.

The Strategic Plan

EW4.01 – explain the purpose of a strategic plan;

EW4.02 – summarize the methods that businesses use to manage information technology;

EW4.03 – describe the obstacles (e.g., outdated technology, slow pace of change, resistance from employees) to creating a long-range strategic plan incorporating information technology;

EW4.04 – create, electronically, an information technology plan for a small enterprise (e.g., identify appropriate components and describe their functions within the business).

Software Applications and Information Management

Overall Expectations

SIV.01 · demonstrate the appropriate use of integrated software to produce customized business documents;

SIV.02 · manage, electronically, information and business files;

SIV.03 · demonstrate the appropriate use of electronic financial planning tools for personal and workplace applications.

Specific Expectations

Software Applications

SI1.01 – describe the business documents required for a particular task (e.g., a business report requiring text, a flowchart, graphics, tables, and graphs);

SI1.02 – select the most appropriate integrated software application for creating customized business documents;

SI1.03 – demonstrate how to produce customized business documents (e.g., formatted and integrated documents, graphics, graphs, reports, presentations).

Electronic File Management

SI2.01 – demonstrate the appropriate use of software to manage their time (e.g., use of a to-do list, electronic calendar, electronic planner);

SI2.02 – demonstrate the appropriate use of software to maintain a “client list” (e.g., use of a database, electronic address book, electronic agenda);

SI2.03 – organize their computer files into appropriately named folders.

Financial Planning

SI3.01 – describe, electronically, the financial planning tools (e.g., budget data, information about loan and interest rates or share values) available on a global network (e.g., the Internet);

SI3.02 – produce financial documents (e.g., balance sheets, sales summaries, expense reports, customer quotes, budgets) using appropriate software;

SI3.03 – demonstrate the appropriate use of software in preparing a personal income tax return (e.g., the use of software templates).

Electronic Research and Communication

Overall Expectations

ERV.01 · conduct electronic research for a specific business task;

ERV.02 · communicate research results in a multipage business report that integrates a variety of software applications;

ERV.03 · demonstrate the use of appropriate electronic tools to communicate with others.

Specific Expectations

Electronic Research

ER1.01 – demonstrate the use of a variety of search engines (e.g., educational, single, multiple, utility) to locate websites for specific purposes;

ER1.02 – access a variety of electronic media (e.g., newsgroups, CD-ROMs, intranets) to gather information for specific purposes;

ER1.03 – analyse information gathered from a variety of electronic media and evaluate it for validity, bias, appropriateness, accuracy, and confidentiality;

ER1.04 – summarize, electronically, electronic media resources that require continuous updating (e.g., electronic calendar, electronic address book, bookmarks, virus checks).

Preparation of Business Reports

ER2.01 – select the appropriate integrated software for the preparation of a multipage business report;

ER2.02 – demonstrate the appropriate use of software features and functions (e.g., headers, footers, footnotes, endnotes, headings) required for multipage business reports;

ER2.03 – produce, electronically, a multipage business report that includes a cover page, table of contents, bibliography, chart, table, graph, clip art, and enhanced font styles and details.

Electronic Communication

ER3.01 – describe the appropriate type of document (e.g., presentation, minutes, chart) for communicating a specific message;

ER3.02 – select appropriate electronic tools (e.g., multimedia, e-mail, website) to communicate a message to a specific audience;

ER3.03 – transmit documents electronically by using various electronic tools (e.g., multimedia, e-mail, website).

Electronic Project Management and Teamwork

Overall Expectations

PMV.01 · analyse the team process in an electronic environment;

PMV.02 · demonstrate, as a member of a team, the production of an electronic product that will be shared externally;

PMV.03 · demonstrate the use of project management strategies and teamwork skills when working in different locations.

Specific Expectations

The Team Process

PM1.01 – explain why businesses form teams to complete specific projects;

PM1.02 – explain the concept of project management and teamwork;

PM1.03 – compare the ways in which the project team process differs in electronic and non-electronic environments;

PM1.04 – describe an individual’s role within a project-based team;

PM1.05 – demonstrate the skills needed to work collaboratively and manage project resources in an electronic environment.

Electronic Presentation

PM2.01 – determine the presentation tools (e.g., slide shows, animation and sound, video projection) that are commonly used in business;

PM2.02 – demonstrate the use of a project management–multitask software package (e.g., joint document production and project tracking; use of word processor, spreadsheet, and database in one document);

PM2.03 – create an electronic presentation for a specific purpose.

Distance Communication

PM3.01 – explain ways in which team members can communicate electronically when working in different locations by using various electronic tools (e.g., fax, e-mail, voice mail, newsgroups, extranets);

PM3.02 – determine the criteria (e.g., time lines, schedules, communication customs) and software standards needed to facilitate project management and teamwork when team members work in different locations;

PM3.03 – demonstrate the use of electronic tools (e.g., file sharing, fax, e-mail) that facilitate the joint production of documents by team members in different locations;

PM3.04 – communicate the results of the team project to an external audience.

Preparation for Employment

Overall Expectations

PEV.01 · apply the steps required to complete a job search;

PEV.02 · assess their information technology skills and competencies;

PEV.03 · create, electronically, a career plan.

Specific Expectations

The Job Search

PE1.01 – identify employment opportunities in the information technology sector, and in other occupations that require information technology skills, by conducting a search using electronic research tools (e.g., the Internet, CD-ROMs, newsgroups);

PE1.02 – demonstrate the use of software to prepare a résumé, letter of application, and interview follow-up letter;

PE1.03 – determine the components of the interview and presentation processes by conducting a search on a global computer network (e.g., the Internet);

PE1.04 – create, electronically, a multimedia interview presentation.

Assessment of Skills and Competencies

PE2.01 – demonstrate an understanding of employability skills, after researching the Conference Board of Canada Employability Skills Profile, the National Guideline for Youth Entrepreneurship Education and Training, and the Blueprint for Life/Work Designs;

PE2.02 – classify, by skill, their information technology skills and summarize them electronically (e.g., skills in web-page design, creating presentations, formatting, project management, teamwork);

PE2.03 – demonstrate information technology skills in samples of their work;

PE2.04 – demonstrate an understanding of the importance of keeping records and samples of exemplary work (e.g., desktop publishing, presentations) in a portfolio for interview purposes.

The Career Plan

PE3.01 – describe the components of a career plan (e.g., statements of short- and long-term goals, plans for continuing education and work experience);

PE3.02 – create, electronically, a career plan;

PE3.03 – explain the importance of continuing education as it relates to career areas that use information technology (e.g., to stay current with rapidly changing software, new equipment, evolving technology).

 

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