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Technical Writing Tools
(PDTO 001)

Students are introduced to the usage of computer tools in Technical writing - from word processing to desktop publishing to operating systems and basics of using a network. They will not be expected to become experts in these areas, but should be able to evaluate tools and understand compatibility issues, and learn to choose and use the appropriate tool for the job.

Course will cover:

  1. Introduction to Word & overview of MS Publisher & Adobe InDesign
  2. Information on platforms, operating systems, networks, & peripherals; how they work & the advantages and disadvantages of various types
  3. Spreadsheets & database overview
  4. Brief introduction to MS Expression Web and Dreamweaver

Note: Minimum System requirements for this course -

Windows or Macintosh computer

Windows:

  • 1.5 GHz or faster processor
  • Microsoft® Windows® XP with Service Pack 2 (or 3); or Windows Vista™ Home Premium, Business, Ultimate, or Enterprise with Service Pack 1; or Windows 7 Home Premium, Professional, or Ultimate
  • 1 GB of RAM
  • 10 GB of available hard-disk space (additional free space required during installation of some software)
  • 1,024x768 monitor resolution with 16-bit video card
  • DVD-ROM drive
  • Access to the following MS Office 2003+ products:
      • MS Word
      • MS Excel
      • MS Access (MS Office Pro required)
  • High-Speed Internet connection recommended

Macintosh:

  • PowerPC® G5 or multicore Intel® Processor
  • Mac OS X v10.4.11-10.5.4 (Leopard)
  • 512MB of RAM (1 GB recommended)
  • 10 GB of available hard-disk space (additional free space required during installation of some software)
  • 1,024x768 monitor resolution with 16-bit video card
  • DVD-ROM drive
    - Access to the following MS Office 2004+ products:
      • MS Word
      • MS Excel
      • MS Access (MS Office Pro required)

Courses are structured to allow students to use trial versions of Adobe InDesign and Adobe Dreamweaver software during the course. Students who wish to purchase receive a substantial student discount while enrolled in Vancouver Island University courses. Purchase software at discounted student prices.

PDTO 001

Julie Clarke/Jessica Colasanto     

F12W01 - 9 weeks: Sep. 4 - Nov 2, 2012*
S13W01 - 9 weeks: Jan. 8 - Mar. 8, 2013*

$399 CAD ($499 CAD for International Students)**

*Note: first week is orientation to the online classroom
**Prices subject to change without notice

Syllabus

Instructor Bios

Julie ClarkeJulie Clarke has an extensive background in computers and computer software, having spent a large part of her working career programming, developing, and maintaining computer software and hardware of all types. Currently responsible for Continuing Education co-ordination for Vancouver Island University's Powell River Campus, she has also taken on responsibility for online courses for several of the university's campuses. With a Masters in Business from the University of Toronto, she is in touch with both the day-to-day functioning of a wide variety of computer software as well as the large picture of how software can be an invaluable tool in Technical Writing applications such as desktop publishing and web development. Julie is keen to share her knowledge of computers and software!

Jessica ColasantoJessica Colasanto has been creating documents for the online environment since the early 1990s. She studied newswriting at the S.I. Newhouse School of Communications at Syracuse University before graduating from McGill University. A native of the Sunshine Coast of British Columbia, she grew up in New York, but now lives in Powell River with her husband and two young children where she currently co-owns and runs a website development company.