Introduction to the module

A candidate who satisfactorily completes this module will have the competence to identify the components of a computer system, the stages of software development and the languages involved, and to use wordprocessing, database and spreadsheet software for business applications.

Candidate eligibility

The selection of candidates is at the discretion of centre.  No previous knowledge of computers or computing is assumed.

Resource requirements

In order to undertake this module a candidate will require access to a computer installation and the following software packages: database, wordprocessing and spreadsheet.

Syllabus
1. Electronics and hardware concepts
1.1 Computers
1.2 Four-stage model
1.3 Memory
1.4 Connecting peripheral devices
1.5 Input devices
1.6 Printers and plotters
1.7 Visual display units (VDUs)
1.8 Auxiliary storage devices
1.9 Communications

2. Computer programming and software concepts
2.1 Software
2.2 Program development
2.3 Programming languages

3. Microcomputer operation and use
3.1 Hardware
3.2 Consumables
3.3 Operating system commands
3.4 Accessing applications software
3.5 Data security

4. Using a wordprocessing package
4.1 Basic text entry, formatting and editing

5. Using a spreadsheet package
5.1 Spreadsheet creation and editing

6. Using a database package
6.1 Database creation and editing