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Unit 1 Introduction to Computer Systems

This document serves as a facilitating and learning material for the Introduction to Computer Systems course, outlining key learning outcomes such as knowledge of computer systems, health and safety, hardware, software, and digitalization. It emphasizes learner autonomy and includes self-assessment activities to reinforce understanding. The material also discusses the importance of computer systems in daily life and addresses potential health hazards associated with their use.

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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
16 views

Unit 1 Introduction to Computer Systems

This document serves as a facilitating and learning material for the Introduction to Computer Systems course, outlining key learning outcomes such as knowledge of computer systems, health and safety, hardware, software, and digitalization. It emphasizes learner autonomy and includes self-assessment activities to reinforce understanding. The material also discusses the importance of computer systems in daily life and addresses potential health hazards associated with their use.

Uploaded by

philipadamtey27
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 23

FACILITATING AND LEARNING MATERIAL

INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTER SYSTEMS

This facilitating and learning material covers all the Learning Outcomes
for Introduction to computer systems for the National Certificate I
programme

LEARNING OUTCOMES
1. Demonstrate knowledge in Computer System
2. Demonstrate knowledge in Health & Safety in the use of Computer Systems
3. Demonstrate knowledge in Computer Hardware
4. Demonstrate knowledge in Computer Software
5. Demonstrate knowledge in Digitalization

0
Introduction and Preliminary Notes
In this unit, you will be introduced to computer systems. After the learning, you will be able
to demonstrate Knowledge of computer systems, health and safety in the use of computer
system. computer hardware and software
This learning material should be used with the unit specification given as the unit
specification will guide you on the standards stated with all the range statements. You should
also be guided by the evidence requirements so that your learning is relevant to the required
standards.

The way the learning material is written is to encourage learner autonomy and initiative (i.e.,
activities that require the learner to work independently of the facilitator and to make
decisions concerning how he/she might approach a task) so that you as a learner can take
ownership of your own learning. Follow the instructions and the steps indicated in the
learning material and work as independently as possible.

ICONS AND THEIR MEANINGS


Icons Meaning
1 Learning Outcome

2 Self- Assessment

Table 1: Icons and their meanings

The meaning of each icon is provided in Table 1. You will come across these icons in the
material, and you should know what each of them represents. Carefully observe the icons and
their meanings.
Congratulations for going through the icons and their
meanings! We will next look at the activities under
LO 1.

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Table of Contents
LEARNING OUTCOMES.........................................................................................................0
Introduction and Preliminary Notes...........................................................................................1
ICONS AND THEIR MEANINGS............................................................................................1
LO 1: Demonstrate knowledge in Computer System................................................................3
PC (a) Explain the concept of ICT and its related terminologies...........................................3
PC (b) Describe the information processing cycle.................................................................3
PC (c) Outline the various devices used in the Information Processing Cycle......................4
PC (d) Explain Computer Systems.........................................................................................5
PC (e) Classify computer Systems.........................................................................................5
PC (f) Explain the Importance of Computer Systems in our daily lives................................7
Self-Assessment 1......................................................................................................................8
LO 2: Demonstrate knowledge in Health and Safety in the use of Computer Systems s..........9
PC (a) Outline health hazards associated with the use Computer Systems............................9
PC (b) State the threats to Computer Systems.....................................................................10
PC (c) Explain the causes and effects of the threats to Computer Systems.........................10
PC (d) Outline the importance of health and safety in computer systems...........................11
Self-Assessment 2....................................................................................................................13
LO 3: Demonstrate knowledge in Computer Hardware.......................................................13
PC (a) Explain Computer Hardware....................................................................................14
PC (b) Identify Components of a Computer Hardware........................................................14
PC (c) Classify Computer Hardware....................................................................................14
PC (d) Explain the Functions of the Computer Hardware...................................................15
PC (e) Outline types of computer Peripheral Devices.........................................................16
Self-Assessment 3....................................................................................................................17
LO 4: Demonstrate knowledge in Computer Software............................................................19
PC (a) Explain Computer Software......................................................................................19
PC (b) Describe the Basic Input Output System (BIOS) of a computer..............................19
PC (c) Explain Operating System Software.........................................................................20
PC (d) State the types of Operating System Software..........................................................20
PC (e) State the types of Application Software....................................................................21
Self-Assessment 2....................................................................................................................22

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LO 1: Demonstrate knowledge in Computer System
You are welcome to the first learning outcome in this unit. In this learning outcome
you are expected to demonstrate knowledge in computer system. To achieve this, we
will go through PCs (a) – (d).

PC (a) Explain the concept of ICT and its related terminologies


CT stands for Information and Communication Technology. It is a broad term that
encompasses all the technologies that are used to create, store, exchange, and use
information. ICT includes computers, the internet, mobile phones, and other electronic
devices.
Here are some of the related terminologies of ICT:
1. Information technology (IT): IT is a subset of ICT that focuses on the use of
computers and computer networks. IT includes hardware, software, and data.
2. Communication technology (CT): CT is a subset of ICT that focuses on the
transmission of information. CT includes telephones, radios, and televisions.
3. E-learning: E-learning is the use of electronic technologies to deliver education and
training. E-learning can be used to deliver courses, tutorials, and other educational
materials.
4. M-learning: M-learning is the use of mobile devices to deliver education and
training. M-learning can be used to deliver courses, tutorials, and other educational
materials to learners on the go.
5. Data analytics: Data analytics is the process of collecting, cleaning, and analyzing
data to extract insights. Data analytics can be used to improve decision-making,
identify trends, and solve problems.
6. Artificial intelligence (AI): AI is the ability of machines to mimic human
intelligence. AI can be used to automate tasks, make predictions, and create new
products and services.
7. Blockchain: Blockchain is a distributed ledger technology that can be used to record
transactions securely and efficiently. Blockchain can be used to create a trusted digital
record of transactions.

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PC (b) Describe the information processing cycle
the information processing cycle is a sequence of events that takes place to convert data into
useful output:
Input– data is acquired or gathered and entered into the computer system. The data is
validated by checking for completeness and accuracy. Data in this case refers to unprocessed
text, numbers, images, video or audio.
Processing– the operations performed on the data to produce information. The Central
Processing Unit (CPU) in the computer is responsible for processing data.
Output– presentation of the information to the user, and it should in the required format.
Output can be viewed, printed or heard and communicated to those that require it. This can be
in the form of softcopy, hardcopy, audio or video output.
Storage– saving data or output for future use. Data and information stored on secondary
storage (external memory) is not lost when the computer is switched off.
Communication– computers are able to communicate with other computers and so can
receive and send information. This communication can be in the form of e-mails, instant
messaging (IM), Short text messaging (SMS), multi-media service (MMS), video
conferencing, blogs or social networking.

Figure 1 Information Processing Cycle

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PC (c) Outline the various devices used in the Information Processing Cycle
The information processing cycle, also known as the data processing cycle or data processing
flow, is a series of steps that describe how data is collected, processed, and transformed into
useful information. This cycle is a fundamental concept in computer science and information
technology, guiding how computers and systems handle data to produce meaningful results.
The information processing cycle typically involves the following stages:

Here are the various devices used in the Information Processing Cycle:
 Input devices: Input devices are used to enter information into the computer. Some
common input devices include keyboards, mice, scanners, and webcams.
 Processing devices: Processing devices are used to perform operations on the
information. The central processing unit (CPU) is the main processing device in a
computer.
 Output devices: Output devices are used to send information out of the computer.
Some common output devices include monitors, printers, and speakers.
 Storage devices: Storage devices are used to store information for future use. Some
common storage devices include hard drives, flash drives, and optical discs.
 Control devices: Control devices are used to direct the flow of information through
the computer. The control unit is the main control device in a computer.
The specific devices used in the information processing cycle will vary depending on the
application. For example, a video game might use a keyboard and mouse for input, a graphics
card for processing, a monitor for output, and a hard drive for storage.

PC (d) Explain Computer Systems


A computer system is a collection of hardware and software that works together to perform
tasks. The hardware is the physical components of the computer, such as the central
processing unit (CPU), memory, and storage devices. The software is the instructions that tell
the hardware what to do, such as the operating system, applications, and utilities.
Computer systems can be classified into different types based on their size, purpose,
architecture, and operating system.

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PC (e) Classify computer Systems
Computer systems can be classified based on various criteria, such as their size, purpose,
architecture, and usage. For the sake of our learning process, we will Here are some
common classifications of computer systems:
By size: Computer systems can be classified by their size, which is typically measured by the
number of processors they have.
1. Microcomputers: Microcomputers are small, single-user computers that are typically
used by individuals or small businesses. They are also known as personal computers
(PCs).
2. Minicomputers: Minicomputers are larger than microcomputers and can be used by
multiple users at the same time. They are typically used by businesses and
organizations.
3. Mainframes: Mainframes are the largest type of computer system and can be used by
hundreds or even thousands of users at the same time. They are typically used by
large businesses and organizations.
4. Supercomputers: Supercomputers are the most powerful type of computer system
and are used for scientific and engineering applications. They can process billions or
even trillions of instructions per second.

By purpose: Computer systems can also be classified by their purpose, which is typically
determined by the tasks they are designed to perform.
1. General-purpose computers: General-purpose computers are designed to perform
a variety of tasks, such as word processing, spreadsheets, and gaming. They are
the most common type of computer system.
2. Special-purpose computers: Special-purpose computers are designed to perform a
specific task, such as controlling a machine or processing scientific data.

By operating system: The operating system is the software that controls the computer
hardware and software. It is responsible for tasks such as memory management, task
scheduling, and file management.
1. Windows: Windows is the most popular operating system in the world. It is used by
personal computers, laptops, and tablets.
2. MacOS: macOS is the operating system used by Apple computers. It is based on the
Unix operating system.
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3. Linux: Linux is a free and open-source operating system. It is used by servers,
desktops, and embedded systems.
4. Android: Android is a mobile operating system developed by Google. It is used by
smartphones, tablets, and other mobile devices.
5. iOS: iOS is the operating system used by Apple mobile devices. It is based on the
Unix operating system.
PC (f) Explain the Importance of Computer Systems in our daily lives
Computer systems are an essential part of our lives. They are used in homes, businesses, and
schools. They are used to communicate, entertain, and learn. Computer systems are
constantly evolving and becoming more powerful. They are playing an increasingly
important role in our world.
Here are some of the ways that computer systems are important in our daily lives:
 Communication: Computer systems are used to communicate with others. We use
them to send emails, text messages, and social media posts. We also use them to make
phone calls and video calls.
 Entertainment: Computer systems are used to entertain us. We use them to watch
movies, listen to music, and play games. We also use them to read books and browse
the internet.
 Learning: Computer systems are used to learn new things. We use them to take
online courses, research topics, and read articles. We also use them to create
presentations and projects.
 Work: Computer systems are used to work. We use them to create documents,
spreadsheets, and presentations. We also use them to send emails, manage projects,
and track our progress.
 Transportation: Computer systems are used to control transportation systems. We
use them to track flights, manage traffic, and control trains and buses.
 Healthcare: Computer systems are used in healthcare. We use them to diagnose
diseases, track patient records, and manage medical supplies.
 Manufacturing: Computer systems are used in manufacturing. We use them to
control robots, automate processes, and track inventory.
 Scientific research: Computer systems are used in scientific research. We use them
to analyze data, simulate experiments, and create models.

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Self-Assessment 1
This learning outcome (LO) has a little quiz at the end. I recommend you take this
whole quiz without looking back for any of the answers. This is meant to help you
determine how well you have understood this learning outcome. Now assess yourself with the
questions below.

1. Explain the basic concept, and terminologies of internet connectivity.


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Describe the information processing cycle.

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2. Outline the various devices used in the information processing cycle.


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3. Explain computer system.

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4. List the Classification of computer system.

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5. Explain the importance of computer systems.


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LO 2: Demonstrate knowledge in Health and Safety in the use of
Computer Systems s
You are welcome to the fourth and final learning outcome of this unit where you have
to explore PC (a) – (e) which talks about Health & Safety in the use of Computer
Systems.

PC (a) Outline health hazards associated with the use Computer Systems

The use of computer systems is an integral part of modern life, but it can also lead to various
health hazards if not managed properly. These hazards can affect physical, mental, and
emotional well-being. Here's an outline of common health hazards associated with the use of
computer systems:

1. Ergonomic Hazards
 Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs): Prolonged computer use with poor posture can lead to
conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome, back pain, and neck strain.
 Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSIs): Repeated movements, such as typing and using a mouse,
can cause RSIs like tendonitis and bursitis.
2. Visual Hazards
 Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS): Extended screen time can lead to symptoms like eye
strain, dry eyes, headaches, and blurred vision.
 Digital Eye Strain: Excessive exposure to screens can disrupt sleep patterns due to blue light
emissions affecting melatonin production.
3. Physical Hazards:
 Electromagnetic Radiation: Prolonged exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMFs) from
devices like monitors can raise concerns about potential health effects.
 Heat Generation: Laptops and computers can generate heat, potentially leading to
discomfort and skin issues with prolonged contact.
4. Radiation Hazards:
 Ionizing Radiation: CRT monitors emit low levels of ionizing radiation, which can be a
concern for long-term exposure.
5. Cybersecurity and Privacy Hazards:
 Stress and Anxiety: Concerns about online security and privacy can lead to stress and
anxiety.
 Phishing Attacks: Falling victim to phishing scams or online fraud can have emotional
and financial consequences.

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6. Addiction Hazards:
 Internet Addiction: Excessive use of computers and the internet can lead to addiction-like
behaviors, affecting mental and emotional well-being.
7. Electrical Hazards:
 Electric Shock: Faulty wiring or equipment can pose a risk of electric shock.
It's important to address these hazards by adopting proper ergonomic practices, taking regular breaks,
managing screen time, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and using protective measures like blue light
filters and ergonomic accessories. Organizations should also provide training on safe computer usage
to minimize health risks for their employees.

PC (b) State the threats to Computer Systems


Computer systems are vulnerable to various threats that can compromise their integrity,
confidentiality, and availability. These threats can originate from malicious actors, software
vulnerabilities, hardware failures, or even natural disasters. Here are some common threats to
computer systems:
1. Viruses
2. Malware
3. Phishing and pharming
4. Spoofing
5. DoS attacks
6. DDoS attacks
7. Zero-day attacks
8. Cyberwarfare

PC (c) Explain the causes and effects of the threats to Computer Systems
ure. Here are some of the causes and effects of the threats to computer systems:
Causes:
1. Human error: Human error is one of the most common causes of computer security
breaches. This can include clicking on malicious links in emails, opening infected
attachments, or using weak passwords.
2. Software vulnerabilities: Software vulnerabilities are flaws in software that can be
exploited by attackers. These vulnerabilities can be found in operating systems, web
applications, and other software.

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3. Social engineering: Social engineering is a technique that attackers use to trick
victims into giving up their personal information or clicking on malicious links. This
can be done through phishing emails, phone calls, or other forms of communication.
4. Insider threats: Insider threats are posed by people who have authorized access to
computer systems. These threats can be intentional, such as when an employee steals
data, or unintentional, such as when an employee clicks on a malicious link.
5. Physical attacks: Physical attacks can be used to damage or destroy computer
systems. This can be done by stealing hardware, tampering with cables, or disrupting
power.
Effects:
1. Data breaches: Data breaches can expose sensitive information, such as personal
data, financial data, or intellectual property. This can lead to identity theft, financial
fraud, and other problems.
2. System downtime: System downtime can occur when computer systems are attacked
or when they are damaged by physical attacks. This can disrupt businesses and
organizations and can lead to financial losses.
3. Loss of reputation: If a company's computer systems are attacked, it can damage the
company's reputation. This can make it difficult for the company to attract customers
and partners.
4. Legal liability: Companies that are responsible for data breaches can be held legally
liable for the damages that are caused. This can include financial losses, legal fees,
and reputational damage.
5. National security threats: Cyberattacks can also pose national security threats. This
is because they can be used to steal sensitive information, disrupt critical
infrastructure, or launch attacks against government systems.

PC (d) Outline the importance of health and safety in computer systems


Here are some of the reasons why health and safety is important in computer systems:
To protect users from injury: Computer systems can be used for a variety of tasks, some of
which can be hazardous. For example, using a computer for extended periods of time can
lead to musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs). By following health and safety guidelines, users
can help to protect themselves from injury.
To prevent accidents: Computer systems can also be used to store and process sensitive
information. If this information is not properly protected, it could be accessed by
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unauthorized users. By following health and safety guidelines, organizations can help to
prevent accidents and protect their data.
To comply with regulations: Many organizations are required to comply with regulations
that govern the use of computer systems. For example, the Health Insurance Portability and
Accountability Act (HIPAA) requires healthcare organizations to protect the privacy of
patient information. By following health and safety guidelines, organizations can help to
ensure that they are complying with regulations.
To improve productivity: By following health and safety guidelines, users can help to
improve their productivity. For example, taking breaks from using a computer can help to
prevent fatigue and improve concentration.
 To create a positive work environment: A positive work environment is one
where employees feel safe and comfortable. By following health and safety
guidelines, organizations can help to create a positive work environment for their
employees.

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Self-Assessment 2
This learning outcome (LO) has a little quiz at the end. I recommend you take this
whole quiz without looking back for any of the answers. This is meant to help you
determine how well you have understood this learning outcome. Now assess yourself with the
questions below.
1. Outline health hazards associated with the use of computer systems
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2. State the threats to computer systems

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3. Explain the causes and effect of threats to computer systems


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4. Outline the importance of health and safety in computer systems

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LO 3: Demonstrate knowledge in Computer Hardware
You are welcome to the Second learning outcome in this unit. In this learning
outcome you are expected to demonstrate knowledge in computer system. To achieve
this, we will go through PCs (a) – (e).

PC (a) Explain Computer Hardware


Computer hardware is the collection of physical parts of a computer system. This includes
the computer case, monitor, keyboard, and mouse. It also includes all the parts inside the
computer case, such as the hard disk drive, motherboard, video card, and many others.
Computer hardware is what you can physically touch.

PC (b) Identify Components of a Computer Hardware


Components of Computer Hardware includes System unit, Monitor, Keyboard, Mouse

Figure 2 Components of Computer Hardware

We hope you have been able to identify Components of the Computer Hardware, lets now
classify them.

PC (c) Classify Computer Hardware


Computer Hardware are often categorized as being either
1. Input Devices
2. Output Devices
3. Storage Devices
4. Processing Devices (processor)

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Figure 3 Hardware components of a computer system

PC (d) Explain the Functions of the Computer Hardware


Computer hardware refers to the physical components of a computer system that you can
touch and interact with. These components work together to enable the computer to perform
various tasks and operations. The functions of computer hardware can be categorized into
different areas:

Input devices
Input devices are hardware devices that takes information from the user of the computer
system, convert it into electrical signals and transmit it to the processor. The primary function
of input devices is to allow humans to interact with the computer system. For instance, a
mouse allows the user to control the movement of the pointer (a common element in user
interface design).

Output devices
Output devices take data from the computer system and convert it to a form that can be read
by humans. For instance, a monitor creates a visual electronic display to output information
created by the processor to the user.

Processing devices
Processing devices are the components responsible for the processing of information within
the computer system. This includes devices such as the CPU, memory and motherboard.

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Storage devices
Storage devices are components which allow data to be stored within a computer system.
This includes devices such as hard disk drives, flash drive and compact disk drives.
PC (e) Outline types of computer Peripheral Devices
There are many different peripheral devices, but they fall into three general categories:
Input devices, e.g., a mouse, keyboard, scanner, camera
Output devices, e.g., a monitor and a printer
Storage devices, e.g., a hard drive or flash drive

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Self-Assessment 3
This learning outcome (LO) has a little quiz at the end. I recommend you take this
whole quiz without looking back for any of the answers. This is meant to help you
determine how well you have understood this learning outcome. Now assess yourself with the
questions below.

1. Computer hardware includes


a.) ………………………………………………………………………………
b.) ………………………………………………………………………………
c.) ………………………………………………………………………………
d.) ………………………………………………………………………………

2. Name FOUR components of Computer Hardware


a.) ………………………………………………………………………………
b.) ………………………………………………………………………………
c.) ………………………………………………………………………………
d.) ………………………………………………………………………………
3. Computer Hardware are classified into
a.) ………………………………………………………………………………
b.) ………………………………………………………………………………
c.) ………………………………………………………………………………
d.) ………………………………………………………………………………
4. Explain the function of the following computer hardware components
a.) Input components:
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b.) Storage components:
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5. Computer peripherals is defined as ……………………………………………..

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…………………………………………………………………………………
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6. Name any TWO (2) categories under which computer peripherals fall
a.) ………………………………………………………………………………
b.) ………………………………………………………………………………

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LO 4: Demonstrate knowledge in Computer Software
Dear learner you are welcome to the third learning outcome of this unit. We have
learnt a lot about computer Hardware. Let us start with PC (a) through to
PC (f) to explore Computer Software

PC (a) Explain Computer Software


Computer Software is a set of programs, which is designed to perform a well-defined
function. A program is a sequence of instructions written to solve a particular problem.
There are two types of Computer software
1. System Software
2. Application Software

PC (b) Describe the Basic Input Output System (BIOS) of a computer


Sure. The Basic Input Output System (BIOS) is a software program that is stored on a chip on
the motherboard of a computer. It is responsible for initializing the hardware components of
the computer and loading the operating system.
The BIOS is a firmware program, which means that it is stored in read-only memory (ROM).
This means that the BIOS cannot be changed or updated without physically modifying the
ROM chip.
The BIOS performs the following tasks:
 Initializes the hardware components of the computer: The BIOS initializes the
CPU, memory, and other hardware components of the computer. This includes
setting the clock speed, enabling memory, and configuring the devices.
 Loads the operating system: The BIOS loads the operating system into memory.
This allows the user to start using the computer.
 Provides a basic user interface: The BIOS provides a basic user interface that
allows the user to configure the computer's settings. This includes setting the boot
order, configuring the keyboard, and setting the date and time.
The BIOS is a critical part of the computer's operating system. Without the BIOS, the
computer would not be able to start up or load the operating system.

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PC (c) Explain Operating System Software
An operating system (OS) is a software program that manages the computer's hardware and
software resources and provides common services for computer programs. It is the most
important software on a computer, and without it, the computer would not be able to function.
The operating system performs the following tasks:
 Manages hardware resources: The operating system manages the computer's hardware
resources, such as the CPU, memory, and storage. This includes allocating resources
to programs, ensuring that no program uses more resources than it needs, and
preventing conflicts between programs.
 Provides common services: The operating system provides common services for
computer programs, such as file management, device drivers, and networking. This
allows programs to access the hardware and other resources without having to know
how to do it themselves.
 Creates a user interface: The operating system creates a user interface that allows
users to interact with the computer. This includes the graphical user interface (GUI)
and the command-line interface (CLI).
 Provides security: The operating system provides security for the computer's
resources. This includes features such as user accounts, passwords, and file
permissions.
 There are many different operating systems available, each with its own strengths and
weaknesses. Some of the most popular operating systems include Windows, macOS,
Linux, and Android.
The operating system is a critical part of the computer's software. Without it, the computer
would not be able to function. By understanding the operating system, you can better
understand how your computer works.

PC (d) State the types of Operating System Software


The most common operating systems for personal computers are
1. Microsoft Windows
2. Mac OS X
3. Linux.
4. Android

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PC (e) State the types of Application Software
Let’s now explore the different kinds of application software’s
1. Word Processing software
2. Spreadsheet software
3. Communications software
4. Database software
5. Presentation software
6. Internet Browsers

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Self-Assessment 4
This learning outcome (LO) has a little quiz at the end. I recommend you take this
whole quiz without looking back for any of the answers. This is meant to help you
determine how well you have understood this learning outcome. Now assess yourself with the
questions below.

1. The two types of Computer software are


a.) ………………………………………………………………………………
b.) ………………………………………………………………………………
2. Write the full meaning of the acronym BIOS
…………………………………………………………………………………
3. The operating system (OS) is the most important program that runs on a computer.
True/False
4. Name TWO types of Operating system software
a.) ………………………………………………………………………………
b.) ………………………………………………………………………………
5. Application software enables the user to complete tasks, such as creating documents,
spreadsheets, databases and publications, doing online research, sending email,
designing graphics, running businesses, and even playing games. True/False
6. List TWO types of Application Software
a.) ………………………………………………………………………………
b.) ………………………………………………………………………………

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