Concepts of Information Technology

General Concepts

Hardware, Software, Information Technology

Understand the Terms Hardware, Software, Information Technology (IT)

Types of Computer

Understand and Distinguish Between Different Types of Computer

Main Parts of the Computer

Know the Main Parts of a Personal Computer

Computer Performance

Know Some of the Factors That Impact on a Computer's Performance

Hardware

Central Processing Unit

Understand Some of the Functions of the CPU

Memory

Understand Different Types of Computer Memory and Distinguish Between Them
Know How Computer Memory is Measured

Input Devices

Identify Some of the Main Devices for Inputting Data into a Computer

Output Devices

Identify Common Output Devices

Input/Output Devices

Understand Some Devices are Both Input and Output

Storage Devices

Compare the Main Types of Memory Storage Devices
Understand the Purpose of Formatting a Disk

Software

Types of Software

Distinguish Between Operating Systems Software and Applications Software

Graphical User Interface

Understand the Term Graphical User Interface (GUI)

Systems Development

Understand How Computer-Based Systems are Developed

Information Networks

LAN, WAN

Understand the Terms Local Area Network, Wide Area Network and Client/Server

Intranet, Extranet

Understand What an Intranet and Extranet is

The Internet

Understand What the Internet and World Wide Web is

The Telephone Networking in Computing

Understand the Abbreviated Terms PSTN, ISDN and ADSL
Understand the Terms Analogue, Digital, Modem and Transfer Rate

The Use of IT in Everyday Life

Computers at Work

Know Some of the Uses of Large-Scale Computer Applications
Understand the Term Telenetworking

Electronic World

Understand the Term Electronic Mail (E-mail)
Understand the Term E-Commerce

Health and Safety, Environment

Ergonomics

Understand What Elements/Practises Can Help Create a Good Working Environment

Health Issues

List Some Common Health Problems Which Can Be Associated With Using a PC

Precautions

List Some Safety Precautions When Using a Computer

The Environment

Be Aware of Factors That Can Help the Environment

Security

Information Security

Understand the Terms Information Security and Access Rights
Know About the Purpose and Value of Backing Up Data
Be Aware of the Possible Implications of Theft

Computer Viruses

Understand the Term Virus
Know About Anti-Virus Measures and Disinfecting Files
Understand Good Practice When Downloading Files

Copyright and the Law

Copyright

Understand the Concept of Copyright
When Applied to Data
Understand Copyright Issues Associated With Using and Distributing Data
Know How to Check a Product ID Number
Understand the Terms Shareware, Freeware and End-User Licence Agreement

Data Protection Legislation

Know About Data Protection Legislation in Your Country