We may expect students to be aware of the basic generic applications but to what extent do we formally explain their similarities and differences?  To what extent do we actually teach the broad range of functions of each?  To what extent do some applications remain untaught because no-one has thought to explore the virtues of studying certain applications?  To what extent is regularly observed poor practice the result of 'the blind leading the blind'? or, worse still, hoping that children will learn by themselves!

The list of 13 basic applications is not exclusive. It does not, for instance, specifically identify specialist applications such as Music software, Statistics, CAD/CAM, Visual Basic, Project Management etc although you will find references to these within the headings below. This list, however, is essential reading for all staff - even if you do not use every application every day - you should be aware of their uses and be capable of cross-referencing your usage with that of the other applications.

Such a list is easily made but to what extent can we easily define their special properties?  It is a temptation, far too often adopted, that we tell our students which specific application to use rather than encouraging students to choose an application according to purpose or need and thus failing to reinforce their autonomous 'capability'. 

Or, put another way, we must teach both the functions and functionality of each application.  Please see next page for more on 'Functionality'.

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