Course Description and Competencies

What to Expect

In this course, you will work through four units, which include three modules. Throughout the material, you will find readings and practice questions. You will also find knowledge checks that help you test your understanding. Engaging with these activities reinforces new learning. It also complements the knowledge you bring to this area of study. 

Course Competencies

This course covers the following competencies:

  • The learner explains primary and secondary sources of professional research as used in the accounting field.
  • The learner applies critical thinking and effective writing skills for the professional accountant.
  • The learner researches financial accounting issues with appropriate tools, including research question development, source validation, and sorted and validated data from public databases.

Assessment

The final performance assessment includes two tasks. You must achieve a ranking of Competent on the assessment to pass the course. The assessment provides an opportunity to demonstrate your mastery of the competencies in this course. You may attempt each assessment two times before additional support is necessary. If you require further attempts, please contact your Student Experience Team.

2 Tasks
3 Competency Units

Course Outline

ModuleUpon completion of this module, you will be able to:
Explain Sources of Professional Research in Accounting
  • Describe professional research.
  • Explain the research process.
  • Identify the various organizations that influence accounting research.
  • Explain the methodology in applied professional research.
Apply Critical Thinking and Writing Skills in Accounting Research
  • Demonstrate critical thinking as it applies to accounting research.
  • Apply effective writing skills in accounting research.
Research Accounting Issues Utilizing Public Databases
  • Evaluate alternative solutions for a financial accounting scenario using the FASB codification.
  • Identify the various types of research tools and databases.

Technology Requirements

We want you to have the tools to succeed! Since this course includes at least one proctored test, please be sure to have a working microphone, speakers, and an external webcam. Unfortunately, an internal webcam (built into many laptops) is not acceptable. (Note: The external webcam is required only for exams that have proctors. You do not need one for practice tests and other non-proctored assessments.) If you haven't already, be sure to download the Meazure Learning Guardian browser, which you will need for the proctoring system.

You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader DC. If you haven't already, download this free software. You may encounter an interactive form that contains fields that you can select or fill in. Review how to fill in a PDF form.

For other details about the technology you'll need, review the Computer System and Technology Requirements. If you have questions about your setup, contact support@academy.wgu.edu.

Key Contacts

Course Connect
Check out this online community to take advantage of course resources, including videos and tips from your educators. You can ask and answer questions, provide feedback on your progress, and interact with fellow students. You will find this platform in the Student Resources section of the course. Log on and do some exploring!

Technical Support
If you encounter technical issues, be sure to contact the Help Desk. Just submit a Support Request for assistance.

Program Support
Do you have questions about your account? Student Support has answers. They can help with billing, switching courses, and other requests. You can contact them at (888) 320-0540 or support@academy.wgu.edu.

Accommodations

WGU provides compliant and accessible learning experiences. If you require accommodation, please contact us at the start of the course. You can email disability@academy.wgu.edu.

We are committed to ensuring that all students with disabilities have equal access to WGU's services and materials. We strive to use best practices for accessibility. Our goal is to conform to existing U.S. laws, including the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 and Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act.

Our learning management system (LMS) platform is Open edX. Open edX’s commitment to accessible content is published in their Website Accessibility Policy.