Audit Evidence and Documentation Course

Module 1: Role of Evidence in Auditing

• Learning Objectives
• Evidence—the Foundation of Auditing
• Two Things Distinguish Auditors
• Performance Auditing Fundamentals
• Fundamentals—Adherence to Auditing Standards
• Fundamentals—Approaches for Doing Performance Audits
• Fundamentals—Focus on Specific Aspects of Performance
• Fundamentals—Application of Finding Concept
• Element Definitions—Traditional Findings
• Element Definitions—Impact Findings
• Rival Causes

Module 2: Evidence Types and Sources

• Learning Objectives
• Types of Evidence
• Audit Classification
• Physical Evidence
• Documentary Evidence
• Testimonial Evidence
• Other Classifications of Evidence
• Evidence can be Classified as Quantitative or Qualitative
• Evidence can be Classified as Views and Fact
• Evidence can be Characterized as Expert Opinion
• Data Sources

Module 3: Evidence Tests

• Learning Objectives
• Tests of Evidence
• Sufficiency Test
• Evidence Sufficiency and Audit Scope
• Appropriate Test – Relevance
• Appropriate Test—Validity and Reliability
• Exercise/Discussion: Selecting Audit Scope
• Exercise 3-1: Deciding Relevance
• Exercise 3-2: Selecting Reliable Evidence
• Exercise 3-3: Reinforcement Quiz

Module 4: Evidence Collection Methods

• Learning Objectives
• Conducting Fieldwork
• Data Collection and Recording Methods
• Collecting Physical Evidence
• Collecting Documentary Evidence
• Collecting Testimonial Evidence
• Collecting Data with Data Collection Instruments
• Using a DCI to Collect Documentary Evidence
• Using a DCI to Collect Evidence on Physical Conditions
• Using a DCI with a Graduated Rating Scale
• Using a DCI to Collect Data on Physical Quantities
• Using a DCI to Collect Testimonial Evidence
• Exercise 4-1: Selecting Data Needed, Type, Source, and Collection Method

Module 5: Assuring Evidence Reliability

• Learning Objectives
• Assuring Evidence Reliability in Collection
• Determinants of Reliability
• Steps to Assure Reliability
• What to Do When Evidence has Limitations or Uncertainties as to its Reliability
• Assuring Reliability of Physical Evidence
• Exercise 5-1: Dealing with Conflicting Requirements