Cash Flow Calculator is one of several free, online financial calculators offered on this web site. It focuses on calculating cash flow based on sources and uses of cash from operating, financing, and investing activities. The interactive graph demonstrates the beginning and ending amounts of cash.
Type of Material:
Simulation
Recommended Uses:
Provides a readily accessible and easy to use calculator for classroom demonstrations or homework.
Technical Requirements:
Java enabled Internet browser. However, the use of java applets and popup windows might create problems for some browers with high security restrictions.
Identify Major Learning Goals:
This module will assist users in learning the impact of various operating, investing, and financing activities on cash. In addition, the learner will focus on the direct method for preparing the operating activities section rather than the indirect method.
Target Student Population:
High School or College students taking an accounting, finance, or management class in which it is necessary to calculate cash flows.
Prerequisite Knowledge or Skills:
Although the site provides definitions, it would be useful to have at least a rudimentary understanding of accounting and cash flow statements, which is usually covered in an Introductory Financial Accounting course.
Content Quality
Rating:
Strengths:
The calculator is clear, concise, and very flexible. The calculator can be used to demonstrate a core concept that is current and relevant. It provides definitions of the key terms used in the calculations. It is well-designed with a clean, uncluttered layout.
Concerns:
Although definitions appear on the page with the calculator, no demonstrations are included. The user must make up numbers. Once concern involves terminology. Each section uses the phrase net available which is misleading. More appropriate terminology would be to use the phrase cash provided or used by ... Also, it is unclear under the financing section as to what the difference is between stock issuing and capital contributions?
Potential Effectiveness as a Teaching Tool
Rating:
Strengths:
The module has great potential as an effective teaching tool. It could be used in various classes to achieve different learning goals. It also uses graphs that illustrate the impact of changes in the numbers. Important terms are explained. Reaching a solution, and perhaps, an understanding of relationships among the various components of cash flow could be achieved in a short time.
Concerns:
The module does not provide a demonstration or explanation of how the results could lead to better cash management. It would not be as appropriate for an accounting course where the presentation of the information might be stressed.
Ease of Use for Both Students and Faculty
Rating:
Strengths:
The module is easy to use, has clear instructions, is engaging, and visually appealing giving that it is a calculator.
Concerns:
The calculator would be enhanced if it had more interactive components and provided suggestions for how to improve overall cash flow.
Other Issues and Comments:
This module is very appealing as a tool to help illustrate concepts related to cash flows.
Creative Commons:
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