Computer Applications and Operations

The emphasis is placed on the introduction, installation, operation and application of computers. Practical applications include databases, desk-top publishing, graphics, multimedia, networking, electronic communication, spreadsheets, and web pages.

• CA01
  Problem solving with computers: a systematic approach. The role of software. A program as expressing a step-by-step solution to a problem (an ‘algorithm'). The stages in programming: specification, analysis, devising the algorithm, flowcharting, programming, testing and documentation.
• CA02
  Common computer processes: linear and binary searching, internal sorting, 2-way merging, sequential update, direct (on-line) update, calendar dates, times, validation routines, areas, volumes, ratios, percentages, integer division, switches, rogue values.
• CA03
  Testing the logic of processes in flowchart, pseudocode or program form. Selection of comprehensive test data. Construction of effects table (dry run). Correcting faults and re-testing, including syntax and run-time errors.
• CA04
  The features and facilities of a common third generation (high level) programming language. Simple ideas of program organisation, structure and style. Variable declarations. Elementary data structures: numeric, string, one and two dimensional numeric arrays, serial, sequential and direct access data files. Program constants, variables and their identifiers. Arithmetic relational and logical operators; rules of precedence. Expressions, assignment statements. Input and Output. Using control codes (escape sequences) to control peripheral devices.
• CA05
  Control structures in programs: branching, loops, subroutines; nested structures. The use of common functions (such as integer part, type conversion, ASCII codes, string, sub-strings, random numbers) in practical applications.
• CA06
  Program documentation. Detailed practical knowledge of specification, analysis and method, system outline, flowcharts (or alternatives), test plans, program listings (with appropriate comments), test results, input, output and file formats, user notes.
• CA07
  Text Processing Package. Facilities and practical operation. Creating, saving and erasing text files. Entry and amending text. Cursor control: text insertion, over-typing, deletion. Operations on blocks of text: marking, moving and erasing. Simple formatting of text. Searching.
• CA08
  Modes of computer operation: Batch and On-line (transaction processing and real-time systems) methods. Single user operations. Multiprogramming. Multi-access systems. The operating system and its various functions.
• CA09
  A Simple Operating System. Facilities and practical operation. The organisation of a floppy diskette and its formatting. Directories and sub-directories. Copying and wildcard commands. Obtaining information about the system. Simple input and output. Error messages. Re-booting the system. Practical knowledge in the use of common operating systems such as Windows 2000.
• CA10
  The work of computer operators. Comparison of work in small (desk-top) systems and mainframe computers. Distinction between the work of programmers and operators.
• CA11
  The Computer Room. Equipment layout; environmental controls. Operating standards; discipline. Security considerations, including data back-up. The daily log.
• CA12
  Hardware and data media. Routine operation of equipment. Precautions in handling magnetic media. Stationery: continuous, pre-printed, multi-part. Ancillary (off-line) equipment. Hardware faults: preventive and remedial maintenance. Consumables.