A model for teaching technology: Using Excel in an accounting information systems course. (September 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Willis, Veronda F.
• Is Part Of: Journal of accounting education. Volume 36(2016:Sep.)
• Page Start: 87
• Page End: 99
• Publication Date: 2016-09
• Subjects: Microsoft Excel -- Accounting Information Systems -- Accounting education -- Peer teaching -- Instructional resources/projects; Accounting -- Study and teaching -- Periodicals; Accounting -- Study and teaching -- United States -- Periodicals; Comptabilité -- Étude et enseignement -- Périodiques; Comptabilité -- États-Unis -- Étude et enseignement -- Périodiques; 657.0711
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jaccedu.2016.05.002
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0748-5751

Abstract

Highlights: At a minimum, employers expect accounting students to possess basic Excel skills. This project allows students to learn new functions in Microsoft Excel while teaching students how to learn new technology. Students also re-inforce and communicate their understanding of Excel via peer teaching. Students enjoy this project and immediately begin using their newly acquired skills outside of the classroom. Abstract: In response to recommendation #4 of the Pathways Commission Report, this teaching note describes an instructional project that allows students to learn new functions in Microsoft Excel. While this project is used in a small undergraduate Accounting Information Systems course, it can be used in larger classes and in any class where students learn technology. In addition to strengthening their understanding of Excel, students are given an opportunity to communicate their understanding of Excel via peer teaching. Since accountants use Excel frequently, students need to be exposed to the vast array of functions and capabilities in Excel in order to enhance student success in the accounting profession. Students enter the course with varying degrees of Excel experience potentially making teaching and developing projects that meet the needs of all students a daunting and challenging task. This paper explains how the experience level problem is overcome in order to help students learn Excel in an environment that not only allows them to learn how to use selected Excel skills but also allows them to learn why and when these skills are useful for accountants.