AS Unit G061: Information, Systems and Applications

3.1.1

Data, information and knowledge

data, information and knowledge

methods used to convey information

types of data

sources of data

static and dynamic data

quality of information

coding data

validation and verification

back-up and archive

cost of information

input-process-output-feedback loop

3.1.2

Software and hardware components of an information system

a. difference between hardware and software

b. input devices

b. output devices

b. storage devices

c. specialist hardware devices

d. specialist software devices

e. types of software

f. user interfaces

3.1.3

Characteristics of standard applications software and application areas

types of software used for basic tasks

characteristics of applications

wizards, style, templates and macros

design considerations for tailored data entry screens

buttons, form controls, menus, templates

house style

master documents, slides, styles for house style

transfer of data between applications

needs of different users

3.1.4

Spreadsheet concepts

financial modelling

object modelling

variables, formulae, functions and rules

worksheets, workbooks, rows, columns, cells, ranges

absolute and relative referencing

Validation

3.1.5

Relational database concepts

database terminology

database notation

attributes, entites and E-R diagrams

advantages and disadvantages of normalisation

characteristics of first, second and third normal form

data dictionary

select data types

queries

setting up a database - practical task

3.1.6

Applications software used for presentation and communication of data

characteristics of documents

mail merge

reformatting documents to meet the needs of an application

clip art and thumbnail images

vector and bitmap graphics

graphic libraries

features of presentation software

OHPs vs electronic presentations

Modes of navigation

Linear, non-linear and hierarchical presentations

3.1.7

The role and impact of ICT

impact of ICT

Capabilities and limitations of ICT

future developments of ICT

legal aspects of ICT - Data Protection Act (1998)

legal aspects of ICT - Computer Misuse Act (1990)

legal aspects of ICT - Copyright, Designs and Patents Act (1988)

legal aspects of ICT - Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act (2000)

legal aspects of ICT - Electronic Communications Act (2000)

legal aspects of ICT - Freedom of Information Act (2000)

combating ICT crime and protecting ICT systems

networking computers

standards in ICT

health and safety