Last modified: December 1999.

At the request of the Vice-Principal (Information), this document has been drafted as an interim statement of the University's expectations of student computing skills. It is expected to lead to discussion by ISAC and the Academic Programs Committee.

An issue that has not yet been addressed is whether or not such expectations should apply to students on entry to the University, in the manner of University expectations of English language skills. If not, then the question is how the University can or should address any gaps between the expectations and reality.

1. Operating Systems and File Management.
   Students are expected to understand and effectively use the operating systems of their designated computer and be competent in such areas as file management, local back-ups and file transfers.

2. University Regulations and Ethics Regarding the use of IT Equipment and Systems.
   Students are expected to understand and apply the University regulations regarding the use of computer equipment and services and be aware of the ethical requirements of their use.

3. Structured Document Preparation.
   Students are expected to be able to create complex structured documents using a word processor application recommended by the University, including the use of "Styles", automatic table of contents and index.

4. E-mail
   Students should be able to send and receive electronic mail between any two computers that are connected to the Internet. Those who use a computer outside the University for their studies are expected to have (whether through their own skills or through private IT support arrangements) the ability to configure and use their internet connection, whether it be dial-up or via an office LAN. Students and staff should be aware of: techniques for sending and receiving attachments using electronic mail; operation and function of Mailserver lists; file management and filtering of electronic mail; security and ethical issues of using electronic mail; backup and/or archiving electronic mail for future reference.

5. Presentation Techniques and Skills.
   Students are expected to be competent in the use of presentation applications and related Audio Visual equipment for communication of materials to small and large groups.

6. Keyboard Skills
   Students should develop effective keyboard typing skills as early as possible.

7. Internet
   Students should make effective (example: search strategies) use of the Internet for finding information. Students should be competent in the use of standard WWW browsers and should be able to use information searching techniques, bookmarks, browser configuration options and plug - ins available for Netscape and other browsers.