Definition

Integrated software applications or packages are usually composed of three different programs:

• Word processing
• Spreadsheets
• Databases

Although each of the programs are separate, the products of each program may be ‘cut and pasted’ from one to another.

Overview of Word Processing

• Word processing software is probably the most common type of program used in classrooms today.
  
• A word processor allows you to enter text, data and other information through the use of the keyboard and mouse.
  
• Word processing files can easily be edited, printed, and integrated into other applications.
  

Steps for document design

• Establish your objectives for the document
  
• Sketch out your document
  
• Gather resources for the document
  
• Construct the document
  
• Print the document
  
• Edit the document
  
• Revise and print the final copy
  

Advantages of Using Word Processing Software

• Easy to edit, revise and print
  
• Formatting and page setup options
  
• Page Count
  
• Easy to save to other formats
  
• Easy to use in other types of applications
  
• Ability to insert pictures, headers and footers
  
• Automatic spell checking
  

Examples of Word Processing Applications

• Microsoft Word
  
• Microsoft Works
  
• WordPerfect
  
• ClarisWorks
  
• NotePad, WordPad, SimpleText
  

Basic Word Processing Skills

You should be able to perform all of the following functions on a word processing program:

• Changing font appearance
  
• Alignment
  
• Spacing
  
• Tabs
  
• Indent
  
• Insert
  
• Columns
  
• Header/footer
  
• Page break
  
• Spell check
  

Overview of Databases

• Database programs store information so that it can be collated, compared, and retrieved easily.
  
• Databases can easily be integrated into lesson plans because their use develops students critical thinking skills.
  
• The structure of the database makes it easy to learn and use.
  

Steps to Designing a Database

• Set the objectives for the database
  
• Organize the information into well defined fields
  
• Enter the information into each field
  

Advantages To Using Databases

• Extensive table organization and formatting
  
• Easy to import ant export information
  
• Easy to edit
  
• Fast and easy calculating and sorting features
  
• Ability to store, organize and sort large amounts of information in a small file
  

Examples of Database Applications

• Microsoft Access
  
• ClarisWorks
  
• Microsoft Works
  
• Filemaker PRO
  
• Claris Paradox
  

Basic Database Skills

You should be able to perform the following functions using a database program:

• Design fields and records
  
• Enter data into data files
  
• Sort data
  
• Search by keywords
  
• Analyze information given a specific question or problem
  

Overview of Spreadsheets

• Spreadsheets are multiple rows and columns of data that can be analyzed in various ways.
  
• Data in a spreadsheet can easily be converted into graphical charts.
  
• Spreadsheets are a useful way to create simulations, explore numerical relationships and analyze data.
  

Steps to Designing a Spreadsheet

• Establish your objectives
  
• Define the output
  
• Construct the spreadsheet
  
• Test and use the spreadsheet to answer a question or solve a problemt
  

Advantages to Using a Spreadsheet

When compared to manual spreadsheets, electronic spreadsheets done on the computer offer the following advantages:

• row and column count
  
• easy to convert to other formats
  
• easy to edit
  
• accurate calculations
  
• ability to perform complex statistical analysese
  

Examples of Spreadsheet Programs

• Microsoft Excel
  
• Microsoft Works
  
• ClarisWorks
  
• Lotus 1-2-3
  
• Quattro Pro
  

Basic Database Skills

• Create a new spreadsheet
  
• Enter data
  
• Type in column and row headings
  
• Create formulas
  
• Perform calculations
  
• Manipulate data to solve a problem
  
• Create a graph from the spreadsheet data