Advanced Report Writing

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this subject the student will be able to:

1. 1. Develop competence in the following areas:

   • analytical skills through accounting case analysis

   • written, oral, and interpersonal skills

   • business communication, report writing and presentation skills

   • additional experience in microcomputer applications

2. Students will specifically develop and demonstrate their competence in analyzing financial accounting, managerial accounting, business ethics and relationship management case studies so as to:

   • identify and prioritize the relevant issues

   • identify and evaluate alternative courses of action

   • identify appropriate recommendations and implementation plans

3. Students will specifically develop and demonstrate their competence in written expression, reading, and oral expression by:

   • analyzing message, audience, and purpose in a business writing situation

   • applying this analysis in the planning and writing of business reports

   • adapting the general characteristics of good writing to specific business situations

   • enhancing their writing ability through planning, drafting, editing, and rewriting

   • using language that is clear, precise, and appropriate

   • editing and proofreading all drafts of writing so as to produce a coherent, meaningful, relatively error-free text

   • listening effectively and speaking clearly and directly as participants in class activities

   • developing an analysis of a case study for oral presentation using overheads, computer software or other visual means to inform or persuade an audience

Sample Answer

Advanced Report Writing: EAC694

The subject Advanced Report Writing (EAC694) is designed to enhance the communication, analytical, and accounting skills that students have developed in prior courses. Positioned within the third year of the Accounting and Finance programme, the course equips students with advanced competencies in business reporting, case analysis, and professional presentation, while also introducing foundational elements of business ethics and relationship management.

The learning outcomes of the course are structured to develop competence across multiple domains. Firstly, students refine their analytical abilities by examining accounting case studies, which include both financial and managerial accounting contexts. This analysis requires students to identify and prioritise relevant issues, evaluate alternative courses of action, and propose suitable recommendations alongside implementation strategies. By engaging with real-world scenarios, students are able to bridge theoretical knowledge with practical decision-making.

Secondly, the course emphasises the development of written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills. Students practice business report writing techniques, ensuring clarity, precision, and appropriateness for a professional audience. The curriculum encourages iterative writing processes, including planning, drafting, editing, and rewriting, to produce coherent and error-free reports. Critical evaluation of message, audience, and purpose is central to the course, ensuring that reports are tailored effectively to specific business contexts.

In addition to writing skills, the course incorporates the use of microcomputer applications to support financial analysis, report creation, and visual presentations. Students learn to utilise technology to enhance the communication of complex information, creating professional reports and presentation materials that are both informative and persuasive. Group presentations form a core component of the learning experience, allowing students to practice oral delivery, visual communication, and audience engagement. Tools such as presentation software, visual aids, and collaborative platforms are used to convey findings in a professional and impactful manner.

Furthermore, EAC694 introduces key principles of business ethics and relationship management, equipping students with the skills to navigate ethical considerations and stakeholder dynamics in professional settings. This dimension ensures that reporting and analysis are not only technically sound but also socially responsible and aligned with professional standards.

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