Using Microsoft Excel to Teach Foundational Data Analysis Skills in Online Learning: Evolution of a Time‐Honored Approach to Presenting Career Relevant Skills Into an Uncertain Future

This article examines the use of Excel‐based data analysis assignments in asynchronous online learning, and their continued usefulness despite uncertainty regarding assessment strategies due to generative artificial intelligence (GAI) tools. It presents a case study evaluating a sequence of Excel‐based assignments using health‐related datasets in an online undergraduate health services administration course. These assignments aimed both to introduce career‐relevant Excel skills and to reinforce understanding of substantive concepts covered in the course. Responses from anonymous surveys of students who completed these assignments during Fall 2023 and Spring 2024 indicate that students perceived these assignments as effective for both aims. This case study also explores the revisions to these assignments to address uncertainty regarding the continuing validity of existing asynchronous online learning activities and assessment strategies with broadly available GAI tools.