iGCSE ICT CAIE

This subject is broken down into 64 topics in 14 modules:

  1. Types and Components of Computer Systems 5 topics
  2. Input and Output Devices 4 topics
  3. Networks and the Effects of Using Them 2 topics
  4. The Effects of Using IT 4 topics
  5. ICT Applications 15 topics
  6. The Systems Life Cycle 6 topics
  7. Safety and Security 3 topics
  8. Audience 2 topics
  9. Communication 2 topics
  10. File Management 5 topics
  11. Proofing 4 topics
  12. Data Manipulation 4 topics
  13. Data Analysis 4 topics
  14. Website Authoring 4 topics
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  • 14
    modules
  • 64
    topics
  • 23,623
    words of revision content
  • 3+
    hours of audio lessons

This page was last modified on 28 September 2024.

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ICT

Types and Components of Computer Systems

Hardware and Software

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Hardware and Software

Hardware

  • Hardware refers to the physical components of a computer system. Things that can be physically touched, moved or manipulated.
  • Types of hardware include the CPU, RAM, Motherboard, peripherals; such as mice, keyboards, monitors, printers and storage devices like hard drives.
  • The CPU (Central Processing Unit) is the 'brain' of the computer, executing instructions and managing hardware activities.
  • RAM (Random Access Memory) temporarily stores data that is processed by the CPU. It provides the CPU with quick access to necessary information.
  • The Motherboard is the 'backbone' of the computer, connecting all the hardware components together, enabling them to communicate.
  • Input devices like mice and keyboards allow users to input data to the computer system.
  • Output devices like monitors and printers are used to output data from the computer system.
  • Storage devices like hard drives and SSDs are used to permanently store data.

Software

  • Software refers to the intangible components of a computer; these are programs or applications that tell the hardware what to do.
  • Software can be categorised into two types: operating systems (OS) and application software.
  • The Operating System manages hardware resources and provides an interface for user interaction. Examples include Windows, iOS, Linux, and Android.
  • Application software is designed to help users perform specific tasks. Examples include word processors like Microsoft Word, spreadsheet software like Excel, and web browsers like Chrome.
  • Software can also include utility programs, which help maintain and protect the computer system, such as antivirus software or disk cleanup tools.
  • Software Development tools are used to create programs and apps. These can include programming languages (like Java or Python), IDEs, and debuggers.

Course material for ICT, module Types and Components of Computer Systems, topic Hardware and Software

ICT

The Systems Life Cycle

Development and Testing

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Development and Testing

The Role of Development in the Systems Life Cycle

  • Development follows the design stage in the systems life cycle, involving the actual construction of the new system.
  • It is usually carried out in small units known as modules, which are then integrated to form a complete system.
  • At this stage, coding is usually done where programmers convert system designs into a computer language, such as C++, Python, or Java.
  • The developer creates the physical aspects of the system, including its interface, databases, and all required applications.
  • Furthermore, additional integral parts like data entry screens, output reports and documentation are developed.
  • Development tools like Integrated Development Environments (IDE) or a simple text editor are employed at this stage.

Key Elements of Development

  • Debugging, the process of identifying and resolving coding errors, is an integral part of the development stage.
  • This stage has its clear target to pass the product to the testing phase with as few bugs as possible.
  • It also involves developing user documentation, including user manuals and guides for using the new system.
  • As the functionality of the system takes shape during the development stage, it needs to be evaluated against the system’s expected performance detailed in the System Requirements Specification (SRS).

The Role of Testing in the Systems Life Cycle

  • Once development is completed, the system is subjected to a series of testing activities to confirm its capability to function correctly and meet the identified requirements.
  • Testing is necessary to identify any bugs or glitches that may affect the system's reliability and functionality.
  • Different types of tests are conducted, including unit testing, integration testing, system testing, and acceptance testing.

Key Elements of Testing

  • Test data is used to validate the system under controlled conditions. It should represent possible scenarios that could occur when the system is in use.
  • Beta testing involves providing the software to selected users and getting feedback about any issues encountered when using the system.
  • Documentation is also a crucial part of the testing stage. Test reports provide valuable feedback for the refinement of the system and inform the decision to move forward to the implementation stage.
  • The goal in the testing phase is to reduce the risk of errors when the system is in use and provide a reliability assurance.

Course material for ICT, module The Systems Life Cycle, topic Development and Testing

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