Return to SAQA NQF ACCREDITATION page

Microsoft Excel (Advanced) - Level 3

Programme

LP: MS Excel (Advanced) - Level 3

Unit Standards
SAQA ID 116943: Using a Graphical User Interface (GUI)-based spreadsheet application, enhance the functionality and apply graph /charts to a spreadsheet
(NQF Level 4, 3 Credits)

SAQA ID 258878: Ensure spreadsheet integrity to enhance reliability
(NQF Level 4, 3 Credits)

Course Duration

4 x Full Days: 08h30 to 16h30
(including 2 x 15 min Tea Breaks & 1 x 30 min Lunch Break)

This learning programme is intended for all persons who need to:

Use a Graphical User Interface (GUI)-based spreadsheet application, enhance the functionality and apply graph /charts to a spreadsheet.

This Unit Standard is intended for people who need to enhance spreadsheet appearance using a Graphical User Interface (GUI)-based spreadsheet application either as a user of computers or as basic knowledge for a career needing this competency, like the ICT industry.

Ensure spreadsheet integrity to enhance reliability.

This Unit Standard is intended for people who work with spreadsheets and for whom the reliability of the data produced is critical.

Programme entry level requirements

It is assumed that people learning towards this Unit Standard are already competent in:

Mathematical literacy and communication skills at least at NQF Level 3
Use generic functions in a Graphical User Interface (GUI)-environment (ID 117902 - NQF Level 1)
Use a Graphical User Interface (GUI)-based spreadsheet application to solve a given problem (ID 116940 - NQF Level 3)
Communication at NQF Level 3

UNIT STANDARD RANGE

This standard is applicable to any spreadsheet application that runs on any Graphical User Interface(GUI) operating system.

Where spreadsheets are referenced, it refers to a whole spreadsheet, a single page of a spreadsheet, or selected text in a spreadsheet.
Where wording are not exact for the chosen operating system, the learner can choose the equivalent item or option to demonstrate competence in the specific outcome or assessment criteria.

Programme Outcomes

This learning programme is outcomes-based which means we take the responsibility of learning away from the Skills Development Provider and place it in your hands.

In this unit, we will be covering the following learning outcomes:

Use a Graphical User Interface (GUI)-based spreadsheet application, enhance the functionality and apply graph /charts to a spreadsheet.
Ensure spreadsheet integrity to enhance reliability.

During the workshop, the learner will complete several class activities that will form part of their formative assessment. In this, the learner can practise and explore new skills in a safe environment.

The learner should take the opportunity to gather as much information as they can use during their workplace learning and self-study.

The workshop will be followed by summative assessment tasks to be completed in your workplace. In some cases, the learner may be required to do research and complete the tasks in their own time.

Module 1

Create and edit a graph

Duration: Morning Session
(Day 1)

Define the major graph types in terms of their purpose
Create a graph from a given data source
Resize a graph
Change the graph type
Edit a graph
Copy and move a graph based on given specifications
Delete a graph from a spreadsheet

Module 2

Load data from an external data source

Duration: Morning Session
(Day 1)

Check the external data file to ensure that the input into a spreadsheet will achieve the required results
Determine the format of the input file to ensure correct input into a spreadsheet
Copy the data into the spreadsheet
Ensure that the resulting spreadsheet is in accordance with the given spreadsheet result

Module 3

Insert and edit objects into a spreadsheet

Duration: Afternoon Session
(Day 1)

Insert an object into a spreadsheet
Manipulate a selected object in a spreadsheet
Use a drawing tool to draw an object in the spreadsheet

Module 4

Set up a spreadsheet

Duration: Morning Session
(Day 2)

Analyse and state the purpose of the spreadsheet to ensure a spreadsheet is the most appropriate tool
Distinguish the identified requirements of the spreadsheet in order to ensure traceability and currency
Set properties in order to protect the integrity of the file
Set out conventions used in a given scenario
Create a summary or index worksheet to help users navigate and understand the organisation of multiple spreadsheets
Demonstrate a basic understanding of the legal requirements affecting spreadsheet use through evaluating the impact of legal controls and access to information

Module 5

Check input data

Duration: Morning Session
(Day 2)

Place single instances of given constants in separate cells to simplify calculations
Break complex formulas down into smaller components to enhance readability, comprehension and ease of updating
Apply named ranges to make formulas more manageable
Use manual and automatic calculation modes in accordance with a given scenario
Make units of measurement explicit to avoid calculation errors
Examine the value of precision display settings to reflect their impact on readability
Import text files into a spreadsheet and validated for correctness of data type
Reconcile the integrity of data as complete, consistent and correct in accordance with external data sources

Module 6

Apply security

Duration: Afternoon Session
(Day 2)

Apply security measures to ensure the integrity of the file
Protect work by including a password in order to control access
Track changes in order to facilitate the sharing of files
Change and remove security settings in accordance with user requirements

Module 7

Check formulas and totals

Duration: Morning Session
(Day 3)

Check the order of precedence in mathematical operations and correct it to avoid miscalculations
Identify cell referencing errors in functions and correct it to ensure the reliability of the spreadsheet
Substitute formulas with array formulae to facilitate auditing activities
Apply error functions and correct error values in order to enhance the reliability of the data
Create cross-totals as a way to validate calculations and increase reliability
Audit formulas to ensure reliability of spreadsheet

Module 8

Check output data

Duration: Afternoon Session
(Day 3)

Reveal hidden information by changing certain formats in order to determine reliability
Demonstrate an understanding of formatting decimals and rounding off by reflecting their differences
Validate data in order to ensure that the correct information was exported
Present data meaningfully by choosing an appropriate chart type
Check charts and correct it for orientation and data series visibility
Use chart features to enhance chart meaning

Module 9

Audit spreadsheets

Duration: Morning Session
(Day 4)

Analyse spreadsheets for criticality, risk and potential business impact and to determine the review and control requirements
Analyse spreadsheets to reflect the reasons why they should be submitted for independent review and approval before circulation
Discuss periodic review to reflect its need, purpose and impact
Assess the use of advanced features to ensure that the spreadsheet is constructed for ease of use
Review the spreadsheet for data-type mis-entry
Apply conditional formatting to highlight errors

Module 10

Validate and sort data in a spreadsheet

Duration: Morning Session
(Day 4)

Apply data validation to data in a spreadsheet to ensure consistency and integrity
Edit validated data properties in accordance with user requirements
Remove data validation from data in accordance with changing spreadsheet requirements
Perform data sort in order to organise information in order to provide breakdown summaries for ease of access

Debrief & Conclusion

Debrief and conclude the programme by referring to each person’s objective for the course and ask whether they have achieved their objective

Duration: Afternoon Session
(Day 4)

Program Reflection
Program Evaluation
Summative Assessment

Google Sites

Report abuse