Aim, Goals and Foundational Objectives

Aim

The aim of Information Processing is to provide students at the Middle and Secondary Level with the basic skills to process information in four broad areas:

$\bullet$ keyboarding
$\bullet$ computer applications
$\bullet$ communications
$\bullet$ management of information

Goals

Awareness: To develop an awareness and understanding of the various information processing competencies required for problem solving and personal economic decision making.

Business Environment: To respond to learning, productivity, and change when processing information within the business environment.

Personal-Use Skills: To develop work habits, attitudes, communication skills, problem solving skills, and independent thinking skills that will enhance personal, school, and work experiences.

Self-Image and Business Attitudes: To develop a positive self-image and essential business attitudes necessary for the workplace.

Communications: To develop effective social and written communication skills desirable in the business environment.

Employment Skills: To acquire business skills to facilitate success in post-secondary education or the work force.

Foundational Objectives

Foundational objectives are the major, general statements that guide what each student is expected to achieve for the modules of the PAA curriculum guidelines. Foundational objectives indicate the most important knowledge, skills/abilities, attitudes/values for a student to learn in a subject. Both the Foundational Objectives and the Common Essential Learnings (CELs) Foundational Objectives to be emphasized are stated in this document. Some of these statements may be repeated or enhanced in different modules for emphasis.

The student will

$\bullet$ be familiar with hardware and software terminology and features $\bullet$ recognize the importance that computer technology has in our society, and how it has become integral in our everyday lives. $\bullet$ be able to use computer hardware and word processing software to produce simple personal use documents. $\bullet$ develop an appreciation for information processing technology. $\bullet$ develop the ability to use a computer system for personal or business use when the environment requires. $\bullet$ use touch keyboarding skills in the efficient use of the computer keyboard. $\bullet$ apply keyboarding skills to both personal and school situations whenever the opportunity arises. $\bullet$ develop personal goal setting and time management skills. $\bullet$ develop information processing skills that will be helpful in one's personal life. $\bullet$ be able to apply information processing skills and knowledge to other areas of study. $\bullet$ examine the efficiency of information processes, considering efficiency and productivity. $\bullet$ examine ergonomic principles that may be considered in preparing business and personal workspace. $\bullet$ understand the uses of several information distribution systems. $\bullet$ use a variety of computer software applications efficiently and productively. $\bullet$ develop an understanding and appreciation of the capabilities and potential of software integration. $\bullet$ develop communications skills needed for information processing. $\bullet$ demonstrate ability to use word processing and formatting knowledge to produce written business communications for various audiences. $\bullet$ examine the importance and use of records management. $\bullet$ understand the managerial roles, responsibilities, procedures, and methods necessary for the efficient management of common information processing activities. $\bullet$ be able to utilize electronic communication systems effectively. $\bullet$ understand the positive value of business in the community by linking the worlds of school and work. $\bullet$ examine and understand the role of the employee in the processing of business information. $\bullet$ be able to maintain computers and troubleshoot common problems. $\bullet$ prepare for information processing career opportunities. $\bullet$ be aware of the career and development opportunities in the field of information processing that exist in Saskatchewan and other provinces.

Note: Integration of learning from core and optional modules will occur throughout the Information Processing program. Teachers are encouraged to seek opportunities to integrate student learning from the modules chosen for a 100-hour course. Integration that takes place should facilitate student acquisition of the foundational objectives of each selected module.