Computation skills, as defined in these standards, are more than just the skills needed to make quantitative and precise calculations. Rather, these skills encompass the ability to solve mathematical problems, analyze and interpret data, and apply sound decision-making skills.

The business education curriculum offers multiple opportunities to develop, use, and integrate computation skills into consumer education, economics, personal finance, marketing, management, information technology, accounting, career development, basic business, and entrepreneurship. In addition, specific courses in business and consumer mathematics help students develop the computation skills needed to solve business- and consumer-related problems.

The standards in this section demonstrate a developmental approach to the acquisition of computation skills. The first five standards address the development of general mathematical skills. In the sixth standard, these skills are utilized in problem-solving applications.

Below is an overview of the achievement standards for the computation content area. Each achievement standard states the understanding and competency students should attain. Each achievement standard has corresponding performance expectations. Each performance expectation delineates what students need to do to exhibit the knowledge and the skills required to meet the achievement standard. The corresponding performance expectations for each achievement standard are detailed in the publication.
 

I. Mathematical Foundations
Achievement Standard: Apply basic mathematical operations to solve problems.
 
II. Number Relationships and Operations
Achievement Standard: Solve problems involving whole numbers, decimals, fractions, percents, ratios, averages, and proportions.
 
III. Patterns, Functions, and Algebra
Achievement Standard: Use algebraic operations to solve problems.
 
IV. Measurements
Achievement Standard: Use common international standards of measurement when solving problems.
 
V. Statistics and Probability
Achievement Standard: Analyze and interpret data using common statistical procedures.
 
VI. Problem-Solving Applications
Achievement Standard: Use mathematical procedures to analyze and solve business problems.

From the National Standards for Business Education © 2001 by the National Business Education Association, 1914 Association Drive, Reston, VA 20191.