Here is a brief description of the instructional resources that you will find in these Teaching Notes:

  • • Introductory Workbook (in Excel): Much like a preface to a textbook, this Excel workbook has four tabs or worksheets designed to provide students with an overview of the ABI-WE instructional module. Tab 1 (as presented in Table 1 of the paper) provides students with a description of the set of four assignments they will do in the semester along with specific learning objectives, expectations about prerequisite knowledge about spreadsheets, details about the process to follow in downloading the assignments and submitting them for review, a grading rubric, technical tips, and expectations about academic honesty. Tab 2 (as presented in Table 2 of the paper) is a directory of the 40 Excel functions that will be covered in the four assignments for the semester, along with reference to the path to take in the Excel ribbon to do each function. Tab 3 includes tips on best practices when preparing spreadsheets, and Tab 4 is a set of testimonials from former students who have found this module to be helpful to them in their careers.

  • • Suggested solution for The Case of Superior Log Cabins, Inc. (in Excel): The solution that our teaching assistants use in grading this assignment is provided. The “memo to the manager” is a sketch of some ideas students may come up with as they analyze the data; however, we encourage students to reflect on their analysis and provide creative recommendations to the owner knowing there is not one correct answer.

  • • PowerPoint presentation for the Analyzing Business Issues—With Excel (ABI-WI) instructional module: A presentation prepared for instructors is provided that describes the purpose and process of this instructional module.

  • • Preview Video for The Case of Superior Log Cabins, Inc.: A short 10-minute video prepared for students to introduce them to this case and the Excel functions that are used is presented in these Teaching Notes. The instructor walks students through some of the more advanced Excel functions (e.g., pivot tables) to ensure that students who have a weak background in Excel can still successfully complete the problem.

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