Records Management

It is advised that students are familiar with databases such as Access prior to this course.

15 hours

This course is an overview of the roles, responsibilities, terminology, and governing principles of current records management practices. Strategies for implementing a records program in a variety of different organizations will be discussed.

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

• Describe the role of records management in organizations
• Identify differences between vital and non-vital records
• Identify federal and provincial regulatory requirements and standards for RM (federal and provincial privacy, PIPEDA, access to information, evidence, taxation and business corporation acts)
• Conduct a records inventory and appraisal
• Implement a records retention and disposition policy
• Make the business case to implement a RM program

It is advised that students are familiar with databases such as Access prior to this course.

30 hours

Today’s records exist in countless formats—digital or physical, personal or shared. Classifying records allows for systematic identification and coding that results in easy retrieval. You will learn how to code within various classification systems.

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

• Explain the role of classification in managing an organization's records
• Describe advantages and disadvantages of using a business function analysis approach
• Describe advantages and disadvantages of using the subject approach
• Explain "taxonomy" and its role in records management
• Build a records series using a classification structure, including a taxonomy
• Describe the importance of using metadata to describe electronic records
• Explain the difference between indexing and classification in RM
• Apply a classification scheme to a record at various points in its lifecycle

It is advised that students are familiar with databases such as Access prior to this course.

30 hours

This course provides an introduction to records management systems. Topics will follow the life cycle of a record and provide you the guidelines needed to create a records management system from inventory to destruction.

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

• Describe the steps of the lifecycle of a record management system (RM)
• Evaluate filing systems for print and electronic records
• Describe storage systems for print and electronic records
• Describe how classification, indexing and storage for record retrieval
• Describe how enterprise records management (ERM) technology is used to provide better access to information and control costs
• Evaluate ERM software programs
• Create an RM system for an organization: conduct a records appraisal/inventory, create a retention and destruction schedule, draw up a disaster recovery plan
• Describe training and technology resources necessary for successful implementation of an RM program

15 hours

Focus on technical skills needed to work in this digital age. Topics include electronic communications using Microsoft® Outlook, organization and transfer of data, and record security.

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

• Use data management techniques for a variety of storage mediums
• Use Microsoft® Outlook to communicate, manage tasks and contacts, and schedule appointments
• Apply security measures to ensure record integrity

15 hours

Skill development and application of introductory database concepts using Microsoft Access. Topics include building reports and forms; designing, creating, maintaining, editing, and querying a database; and creating reports and forms.

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

• Design and build a database using appropriate tables, fields, and primary keys.
• Create queries to locate, sort, and manipulate database data.
• Maintain the database by updating and filtering records, modifying database structure, and setting validation rules.
• Construct business-ready reports and forms.

15 hours

In this hands-on course, learn about spreadsheet concepts using Microsoft Excel software. The emphasis is on creating and using spreadsheets for business applications.

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

• Design spreadsheets
• Format worksheets
• Use formulas and functions
• Analyze and evaluate business data using Excel statistical tools

15 hours

In this hands-on course, learn how to design and organize documents using Microsoft Word software. The course puts a special emphasis on attention to detail and practical application in preparing business documents and forms.

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

• Prepare business-ready letters, forms, and reports.
• Apply advanced formatting concepts
• Analyze documents for professionalism, ease of navigation, appropriate content, and visual appeal.

15 hours

This course introduces the principles of business communications. Topics covered include the writing process; direct, indirect, and persuasive messages; and adapting messages for specific purposes and audiences.

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

• Compare and contrast different types of workplace communications
• Develop strategies for workplace communications
• Apply the writing process, including planning, drafting, revising, editing, and proofreading
• Adapt messages for tone, diction, coherence, and completeness
• Write direct, indirect, and persuasive messages
• Communicate professionally electronically