1.1 Introduction
The introduction of a new curriculum and syllabus for National Diploma in secretarial studies is long overdue because of current treads in information technology. The task of a secretary is beyond typing and using shorthand in order to take fast note. Modern technology such as the use of computers introduced new innovation. The academic in the field of secretarial studies should gear their efforts towards contemporary development in information technology in order to make their products relevant in the modern world.
According to encyclopaedia Britannica, it defines word processing as an operator or recorded information, which is transformed into typing or printed form. Word processing can produce a wide variety of documents including letters, memoranda e.t.c very rapidly and at relatively low cost.
In reference to Arewa (200:38) ‘of course, no course, no one will quarrel with the fact that dictating machines have a definite place in the business office indications are that more and more machines will be used, but to say that they will replace the secretary is to ignore the fact’ Secretaries should be versatile in the user of computer packages that are relevant to their chosen profession so that they can follow the current technological developments.
Word processing is a computer machine, which allows individual to work with letters, word packages and documents it is not just an advance typewriter, it can transfer ideals into readable form of communication through the management of procedures equipment and personnel.
According to Olaleye C.E. (2003:7) A secretary is an executives assistant who possess a mystery of office skills demonstrates the ability to assume skills responsibility without direction or supervision, exercises initiative and judgement and making decision within the scope of assigned authority’. From the foregoing definition, one will agree that a secretary is an executive assistant who should be able to work with less supervision. Based on this premises, it can be argued that today’s secretaries should be taught current developments in information technology.
As a prelude to other parts of this study, this chapter will discuss the background upon which this study was initiated, the statement of problems that led to this study, the Aim and Objectives of the study. Others are Significance of the study, Scope of work, Research hypothesis and questions, Limitation of the study and Definition of technical terms.
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