Cat Term 1

Grade 12 Term 1 CAT Study Notes

Page 1: General Concepts

  • Uses of Different Computer Systems

    • The choice of computer system is task-dependent.

    • Components: Hardware, System Software, Application Software.

  • Different Types of Users

    • Personal

    • Small Office/Home Office

    • Mobile

    • Power Users

  • Roles and Uses of Computer Systems

    • Data

    • Information

    • Knowledge

    • Conclusion/Decision

Page 2: Role and Use of Data

  • Business Data Role

    • Assists in gathering information for business analysis.

    • Information aids in analyzing business dealings and transactions.

    • Knowledge is used for strategic planning for sustainability and performance.

    • Conclusions and decisions are based on processed information.

  • Why Computers?

    • Efficiency

    • Accuracy

    • Reliability

Page 3: Communication and Convergence

  • Technological Convergence

    • Merging of technologies into new systems.

    • Examples: Telephone lines, computers, televisions, gaming consoles.

  • System Technology and Hardware

    • Inputs: Data entry via devices (keyboards, mice, scanners).

    • Processing: Raw data processed by CPU.

Page 4: Storage and Output

  • Storage

    • Data saved in soft/physical form.

    • Processed data becomes useful information.

    • Storage mediums: hard disks, pen drives, micro SD cards.

  • Output

    • Results yield valuable information.

  • Buying a Computer: Hardware Considerations

    • Input, processing, storage, output, and communication devices.

    • Risks: Security and health concerns.

Page 5: Central Processing Unit (CPU) and RAM

  • CPU

    • The brain of the computer; speed affects data processing.

  • Random Access Memory (RAM)

    • Temporary storage for quick access; larger RAM improves performance.

  • Storage Considerations

    • Processor speed/type, primary storage needs, device capabilities, intended use.

Page 6: Communication Devices and Software

  • Communication Devices

    • Modem, wireless router, hub.

  • Software Needs

    • Dependent on hardware components.

    • Input mode integration enhances productivity.

  • Accessibility Features

    • Designed for users with disabilities (e.g., Windows accessibility features).

Page 7: Software Applications

  • Types of Software Applications

    • Word processing, presentations, spreadsheets, reference software, e-mailing, document management, web browsers.

Page 8: Web-based vs Installed Applications

  • Comparison

    • Web-based: Live updates, no disk space needed, automatic backups.

    • Installed: Manual updates, requires disk space, needs scheduled backups.

Page 9: System Requirements and Software Issues

  • System Specifications

    • Minimum hardware requirements for software applications.

  • Common Software Problems

    • Unsuccessful updates, risks of flawed software.

  • Choosing Appropriate Software

    • Consider cost, reputation, and trial options.

Page 10: Task-Specific Software

  • Software for Specific Tasks

    • Use applications suited for letters, spreadsheets, presentations.

  • Social Implications

    • Consider user expectations, design consistency, and environmental impact.

Page 11: Database Software Applications

  • Advantages of Databases

    • Store and organize large data, easy data manipulation, quick queries, data validation, report generation.

  • Database Components

    • Tables, forms, reports, queries.

Page 12: Report Contextual Tabs

  • Report Features

    • Design, arrange, formal tab, page setup.

  • Grouping and Calculations

    • Grouping data for logical order, summary calculations.

Page 13: Data Validation Techniques

  • Validation Methods

    • Assign data types, set character limits, add default values.

  • Queries

    • Use wildcards for uncertain data searches.

Page 14: Spreadsheets

  • Excel Functions

    • 340 programmed functions, error messages, revision functions.

Page 15: Nested IF and VLOOKUP

  • Nested IF Function

    • Logical tests with multiple conditions.

  • VLOOKUP Function

    • Vertical lookup rules and requirements.

Page 16: Rounding and Date Functions

  • Rounding

    • Simplifying numbers for easier estimation.

  • Date and Time Functions

    • Various functions for formatting and calculations.

Page 17: Word Processing Features

  • Bookmarks and Review

    • Track changes, pagination, and line breaks.

Page 18: Exporting and Importing Data

  • Exporting Data

    • Create forms, save as templates, and manage data.

  • Importing Data

    • Steps to import data into spreadsheets and databases.

Page 19: Managing Data and Information

  • Data Processing

    • Importance of quality data for meaningful research.

  • Gathering Data

    • Techniques for effective data collection.

Page 20: Setting Questionnaires

  • Questionnaire Design

    • Types of questions, tips for effective questionnaires.

  • Target Audience

    • Importance of a representative sample size.

Page 21: Writing Reports

  • Report Structure

    • Cover page, table of contents, executive summary, body, conclusions, references, appendix.

  • Using Spreadsheets and Databases in Reports

    • Presenting data and supporting evidence effectively.

Page 22: Solutions Development

  • Final Notes

    • Importance of structured data management and reporting.