Describe what is meant by a MAC address.
What situations are likely to call for the use of Direct Changed Over?
State advantages and disadvantages of the following system implementation strategies
Phased:
Advantages:
Disadvantages:
Pilot:
Advantages:
Disadvantages:
Direct:
Advantages:
Disadvantages:
Parallel:
Advantages:
Explain two computer hardware features that may be considered when selecting a laptop computer to be used in developing a KCSE computer studies project (4mks)
Multimedia Capability - A laptop with strong multimedia capabilities is essential for a computer studies project submitted on CD-RW. This ensures that the laptop can efficiently handle multimedia content, providing a seamless experience in creating and presenting project materials.
Processor Speed - Opting for a laptop with a high processor speed is crucial. This feature enables the smooth execution of multiple applications simultaneously, enhancing overall project efficiency and reducing processing delays.
Hard Disk Capacity - Consider a laptop with ample hard disk capacity, as the Microsoft Office suite used in computer projects requires significant space for the installation and storage of project files. A spacious hard drive ensures that there is sufficient room for data and applications.
Main Memory Capacity - Given that students often work with multiple programs concurrently during a project, it's important to choose a laptop with an adequate main memory size. A smaller main memory may result in performance issues, hindering the seamless operation of various software applications during project development.
A company is developing a computer for use in schools.
(a) All computers have a CPU, memory and storage.
(i) Identify the type of physical storage that uses electronic circuits.
Solid state
A company has decided to use a computer for stock control. Describe the process of systems development from the time the decision was made to proceed with computerisation until final testing.
specify output requirements
design documents/screen displays
data for input/storage
form design
storage devices
file structures/access/design
data security/back up files
systems flowchart etc.
implementation i.e. pilot/intermediate/parallel running
testing strategy
training
hardware/software
programming/algorithms
validation
user manual
technical documentation
entering data into system
Xpat ICT has been tasked to construct a network for an organisation. Explain three factors that the company should consider when selecting the medium for the connectivity (KCSE 2021 Computer Studies Q19c)
List two types of network software
Explain why the organization's management and the analyst need to work together to define the problem accurately during system development
KCSE 2016 COMPUTER STUDIES PAPER MARKING SCHEME
State the function of each of the following keys on the computer keyboard : (2mks)
Backspace;
Insert
An organization intends to replace an existing system by carrying out the process in stages .
Name the implementation strategy ; (1mk)
Give two reasons why the organization is opting to use the implementation strategy in (a) above (2mks)
A manager wishes to replace the current manual system with a computerized one. Describe three areas that must be evaluated to justify the replacement (6 marks)
Headache, back and neck pain may result from the use of computers. State how each of them can be minimized (2mks)
Students of a school intended to elect their school Captain by secret ballot. State three ways in which computers can be used to improve the election process (3mks)
Explain why intranet is a more secure way to share files within an organization compared to internet (2mks)
List two career opportunities directly associated with computer networking (2mks)
Distinguish between a formula and a function as used in spreadsheets
The C directory of a computer has folders named Form 1, Form 2, Form 3 and Form 4. Each class has students’ folder named according to their admission number. The student created their own folder for subjects they are studying based on the table below:
With the aid of an example, explain the term multilevel list as used in word processing
1. Chapter 1
1.1. Introduction
1.1.1.Definition of terms
State any four applications of electronic spreadsheets
A company has decided to deliver its products online to international customers. It has employed you as a project manager to determine whether this is a viable business decision. You choose to conduct a feasibility study. Outline the purpose of a feasibility study using two components associated with this process.
Journalists are issued with laptops when they start working at a magazine publishing company. The company only uses free open-source software (FOSS).
The laptops are equipped with either an HDD or an SSD.
The journalists can access their data remotely using virtualisation or Software
as a Service (SaaS).
2.3.1 Define the term virtualisation. (1)
2.3.2 Office365 is an example of SaaS.
(a) Except for remote data access, state TWO benefits of using
SaaS. (2)
(b) Describe how the license model of SaaS works. (2)
2.1.1 Explain the concept of open source in the context of FOSS. (2)
Give ONE example of a free operating system the company could install on a laptop. (1)
2.1.3 State TWO disadvantages of using free open-source software.
Describe how the CPU and main memory work together.
Data and instructions are fetched from main memory, from addresses requested by the CPU on the address bus. (Data and instructions are sent) using the data bus. (Data and instructions are then) decoded and executed in the CPU.
Results of operations are sent back to the memory on the data bus
5 Artificial intelligence is an emerging trend in computer science.
(a) Discuss the use of artificial intelligence by describing some of its characteristics, the ways in which it may be used and the ethical issues associated with its use.
Branch of computer science based on enabling computers to
behave like humans/mimic aspects of human intelligence
• AI is implemented in software.
• Combines psychology, biology, linguistics, mathematics, neuroscience,
and philosophy (ethics)
• AI is not the same as the general intelligence of human beings
Uses – Any of the following:
• Game playing (chess, quiz, video games)
• Analytics (analyse buying patterns, predicting behaviours, predictive
text, financial markets)
• Image processing (recognising objects/patterns)
• Logistics (scheduling, order fulfilment)
• Control systems (cars, manufacturing, weapons, navigation)
• Expert systems (medical, mechanical, electrical diagnosis)
• Neural networks (simulating neuron behaviours as in brains)
• Natural languages processing (chatterbots, chatbots, speech
recognition)
• Robotics (dangerous situations, help aged or disabled)
Ethical issues – Any of the following:
• Take the work of humans, thereby affecting employment rates
• Is a computer to be trusted to make decisions (life-death)?
• If a computer discovers something that humans can’t prove, should it be
accepted as truth?
• Do AI machines have rights?
• Will people be comfortable interacting with machines that are
considered intelligent?
6 Programmers write software that controls hardware and interacts with users. Some of this software ensures that networks function properly.
(a) Compilers and interpreters translate source code written in programming languages.
State four other features of a compiler.
A single executable file is produced
The executable program is portable between machines
The program source code is not available
Code can be optimised/made more efficient
Entire source code file is converted at once
No special environment is needed to execute the code
It creates object/machine code
Error report is provided at the end of the compilation
State advantages and disadvantages of video conferencing
Advantages
– immediate response to questions/queries
– can see each other watch body language etc.
– easier to have several participants (would be difficult using instant messaging if
several people involved)
Disadvantages
– need for expensive equipment/high set up costs
– sometimes synchronisation problems make it difficult for delegates
– need to train people to use the new technology
– greater use of bandwidth
State the seven layers of the OSI model
(a) Name two pieces of hardware needed to enable video-conferencing to take place using a standard computer system.
(b) State one piece of specialist software needed to carry out video-conferencing.
(a)
– webcam
– speakers
– microphone
– broadband modem
(b)
– use of CODEC (converts/compresses analogue data into digital data)
– echo cancellation s/ware (allows talking in real time/keeps everything in sync)
– compression s/ware for video/audio
– s/ware to access broadband/networking