Instructional usage of the compustat data files

Abstract This paper describes the use of the COMPUSTAT data files in connection with a one-quarter course in financial statement analysis. A description of the programming necessary to prepare the files for student use and the projects undertaken by the students are provided. Some future enhancements planned for subsequent offerings of the course are discussed as well. The results of the exercise were found to be entirely satisfactory and student enjoyment and learning were judged to be high.