Fundamentals of Computer Science Unit 1 Review

Fundamentals of Computer Science Unit 1 Review Key

Sample Questions to Consider

  1. What is Computer Science?

    • Definition of Computer Science: The study of computers, their design, and their applications, including the theoretical foundations of information and computation, as well as practical techniques for the implementation and application of computer systems.

  2. Describe the 5 Main Areas of Computer Science:

    • Networks and the Internet:

      • Definition: A group of connected devices that share information and resources.

      • Importance: Facilitates communication and data exchange across geographical barriers.

    • Algorithms and Programming:

      • Definition: Programs (code) that instruct computers on how to perform tasks.

      • Relevance: Algorithms are essential for problem-solving and optimizing processes in computing.

    • Computing Systems:

      • Definition: Machines that run programs and perform computations.

      • Examples: Personal computers, servers, and embedded systems.

    • Data and Analysis:

      • Definition: The process of collecting, storing, organizing, and studying facts to understand data.

      • Role: Critical for informed decision-making and insights in various fields.

    • Impacts of Computing:

      • Definition: Examines how computers influence our lives, culture, safety, laws, and behavior.

      • Ethical Considerations: Includes discussions about privacy and societal changes due to technology.

  3. Computer Science is / is not… what?

    • Students should refer to Chapter 1 notes, Section 01 of the PAT List, or Chapter 1 of the text for precise definitions and context.

  4. Positive and Negative Impacts of Technology on Society:

    • Positive Impacts:

      • Improves efficiency in various tasks and processes.

      • Enhances communication across distances and cultures.

    • Negative Impacts:

      • Can impose high costs for individuals and organizations.

      • Requires ongoing maintenance and updates, potentially leading to waste or obsolescence.

Ethical Practices

  1. Examples of Ethical Behavior When Working with Technology:

    • Ensuring correct use of personal information.

    • Not misrepresenting the truth or creating fakes.

    • Engaging in the moral use of data and respecting user privacy.

    • Responsible use of autonomous technology.

  2. Difference Between Copyright, Patent, and Trademark:

    • Copyright:

      • Definition: A legal right of the owner of intellectual property, protecting original works of authorship (example: song lyrics).

    • Trademark:

      • Definition: A word, phrase, design, or combination that identifies goods or services (example: Coca-Cola®).

    • Patent:

      • Definition: Protects technical inventions and provides the inventor exclusive rights (example: type of hybrid engine).

  3. Acceptable Use Policy (AUP) Contents:

    • Examples of acceptable use guidelines include the rules or expectations for the use of an organization's equipment, services, network, etc.

    • Example: Prohibiting eating while working near a computer.

Cybersecurity

  1. Ways Computers Might Be Infected with Malware or a Virus:

    • Infection Sources:

      • Downloading infected files or software.

      • Opening malicious files through emails, applications, or social media posts.

  2. Difference Between Spyware, Ransomware, and Adware:

    • Spyware:

      • Definition: Programs that track browsing history, record keystrokes, and steal usernames/passwords.

    • Ransomware:

      • Definition: Software that locks users out of their computers until payment is received for access restoration.

    • Adware:

      • Definition: Software that displays unwanted advertisements on user devices.

  3. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA):

    • Definition: A type of authentication that requires multiple steps to unlock devices or access services.

    • Example: Using a fingerprint, a key fob, or a PIN to access a bank account.

  4. Dangers of Social Engineering:

    • Definition: Techniques used to deceive individuals into revealing confidential information.

    • Access Methods:

      • Impersonation or Spoofing: Pretending to be a known and trusted individual.

      • Phishing: Sending emails or messages that appear to come from legitimate sources, such as institutions or companies.

      • Keylogging: Recording the keystrokes made by a user on their device without their consent.

Computer Technology

  1. Difference Between Computer Applications and System Software:

    • System Software:

      • Definition: Software that manages and controls hardware components, typically exemplified by operating systems (e.g., Windows, macOS).

    • Application Software:

      • Definition: Software designed to allow users to perform specific tasks (e.g., word processors, web browsers).

  2. Examples of Peripheral Devices:

    • Examples include:

      • Mouse

      • Keyboard

      • Scanners

      • Speakers

      • Webcam

      • Digital Camera

      • Printer

  3. Purpose of File Management:

    • Definition: File management is the practice of creating an organized structure for the efficient storage and retrieval of information.

  4. Advantages of Popular Operating Systems:

    • Windows:

      • Strong support from a large number of hardware and software vendors for peripherals and applications.

    • macOS:

      • Emphasizes ease of use and reliability as core features of the operating system.

    • Linux:

      • Open-source software that is free to use, modify, and distribute, fostering a collaborative development environment.

  5. What is a Virtual Machine and Its Advantages:

    • Definition: A virtual machine is a program that runs on a computer and simulates an entire computing environment.

    • Advantages Include:

      • Allows for testing of operating systems without altering existing systems.

      • Enables utilization of powerful hardware more efficiently across multiple virtual environments.

      • Provides the ability to take snapshots of systems to deploy identical configurations across devices.

  6. Comparison of Software and Hardware:

    • Software:

      • Definition: Instructions and programs that tell hardware how to perform tasks.

    • Hardware:

      • Definition: The physical components of a computer system (e.g., motherboard, CPU).

    • Interaction: Software and hardware work together to carry out functions they were designed to execute.

  7. Key Hardware Components Found in a PC:

    • Case:

      • Definition: The enclosure that houses the physical components of the computer.

    • Motherboard:

      • Definition: The central circuit board where all other components connect.

    • CPU (Central Processing Unit):

      • Definition: Executes instructions and processes data.

    • RAM (Random Access Memory):

      • Definition: Temporary storage for active data that the CPU needs while performing tasks.

    • Storage Devices:

      • Hard Disk Drive (HDD): Traditional storage device that uses magnetic disks.

      • Solid State Drive (SSD): Faster storage device using flash memory.

  8. Binary to Decimal Conversion Table:

    • | Binary | Decimal |
      |------------|--------|
      | 00010000 | 16 |
      | 00010110 | 22 |
      | 00011101 | 29 |
      | 00001100 | 12 |
      | 00011001 | 25 |
      | 00100001 | 33 |

  9. Micro:bit Input and Output Devices:

    • Input Devices:

      • Buttons

      • Accelerometer

      • Radio

    • Output Devices:

      • LED Display

      • Radio

      • Speaker for sound.

  10. Program Design on Microsoft Makecode using the Micro:bit:

    • Purpose of the Program: Clearly define what the program aims to accomplish (e.g., educational game, data logger).

    • Link to the Program: Include a shareable link to the design for others to explore and use.