AERD30010 Spreadsheet Modelling and Business Applications

Academic Year 2024/2025

This is an intermediate level module that focuses on spreadsheet modelling techniques in the context of managerial decision making within commercial organisations. The module aims to facilitate students in gaining key computing skills applicable to the business environment. Lectures and practical exercises focus on spreadsheet applications in data analysis and simulation modelling of business decisions. Theory and practice are illustrated with example models in financial analysis and planning, investment appraisal, inventory management and risk analysis.

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Curricular information is subject to change

Learning Outcomes:

On completion of the module students should be able to:
Explain the potential roles of spreadsheet modelling in decision support within an organisation; Discuss the structure, conceptual basis and utility of specific models used to support business decision making; Use spreadsheets in key business applications including data analysis and simulation modelling.

Indicative Module Content:

The module includes the following topics:
(1) Decision support systems and the role of spreadsheet applications
(2) Introductory concepts in modelling with Microsoft Excel
(3) Use of functions: mathematical, financial, logical and statistical
(4) Cost-Volume-Profit model
(5) Analysis of financial data
(6) Investment appraisal model
(7) Inventory management model
(8) Simulation modelling: validation and verification strategies
(9) Stochastic simulation models.

Student Effort Hours: 
Student Effort Type Hours
Specified Learning Activities

20
Autonomous Student Learning

44
Lectures

12
Practical

24
Total

100
Approaches to Teaching and Learning:
The module comprises a mixture of lectures and computer-based practical classes. The practical classes use problem-based learning techniques where students gain the opportunity to apply and practice concepts that have been discussed in lecture classes. 
Requirements, Exclusions and Recommendations
Learning Requirements:

AERD20030 - Business Management (or equivalent)


Module Requisites and Incompatibles
Not applicable to this module.
 
Assessment Strategy  
Description Timing Component Scale Must Pass Component % of Final Grade In Module Component Repeat Offered
Quizzes/Short Exercises: Practical exercises Week 2, Week 3, Week 4, Week 5, Week 6, Week 7, Week 8, Week 9, Week 10 Graded No

25

 No
Practical Skills Assessment: Practical Excel Test Week 12 Graded No

35

 No
Exam (In-person): Theory examination End of trimester
Duration:
1 hr(s)
 Graded No

40

 No

Carry forward of passed components
Yes
 
Resit In Terminal Exam
Spring Yes - 1 Hour
Please see Student Jargon Buster for more information about remediation types and timing. 
Feedback Strategy/Strategies

• Feedback individually to students, post-assessment

How will my Feedback be Delivered?

Assessment for this module comprises 3 components: in-class exercises (25%); practical exam (35%), and a theory exam (40%). In-class exercises are completed throughout the trimester and students will receive prompt feedback on their performance. This formative feedback supports students' preparation for a practical exam in Week 12. Students will receive feedback on their practical test within a target time of 2 weeks after completion. The end-of-trimester written examination is a summative assessment with each student receiving a grade for their exam and overall module performance. Students can receive feedback on their exam by appointment with the lecturer.