AICT Syllabus Question St. Francis CIE

AICT AS & A LEVEL
4.1 AS Level
Section 1: ICT systems including portable communication devices
(a) identify the input devices including: keyboards, pointing devices (including mouse, touchpad and tracker
ball), video digitisers, remote controls, joysticks, magnetic stripes, scanners, digital cameras, microphones,
sensors, MIDI instruments, graphics tablets, MICR, OMR, OCR, barcode readers, video cameras, web cams,
light pens;
(b) identify suitable uses of the input devices stating the advantages and disadvantages of each;
Box 1
Q. Vikram has already bought a PC for Ashray to create the web page. Describe, giving the uses of each
item, the additional items of hardware and software he will need to buy.
Ans. Must gain a mark for each of hardware and software to gain full marks
Six from:
Printer (laser or inkjet) to print out information for checking
Graphics tablet to input drawings/designs
Scanner to scan hard copy images for inclusion in website
St. Francis Centre "One stop service for computer by JOY" jnf1971@gmail.com 1
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Modem/Router for connecting to internet to upload/download web pages
Microphone to create voiceovers where necessary
Speakers to listen to sounds/voice/music to check accuracy/suitability
Video camera to make videos for including in website
Digital camera to take photographs for uploading to webpage
Web authoring package to create web site
Word-processing package for typing text/tables etc.
DTP for creating pages for website
Spreadsheet to create statistical tables/graphs for inclusion on the website
Database to create files of data for inclusion on the website
Communications software to connect to Internet
Web browser to see how the web site appears to users
Software for editing scanned/downloaded images
Q. Name four robotic arm attachments (end effectors) and for each one describe the use it would be put
to.
Ans. Cameras – to inspect work

Welding guns – to weld parts of the car body together
Grippers – to pick up parts and place them somewhere else
Vacuum cups – to pick up parts
Drills – to make holes in the car body
Screwdrivers – to place and tighten screws
Spanners – to place and tighten nuts
Riveters – to place and tighten rivets
Spray guns – to paint the car body
Polishers/finishers – to produce a shiny finish after painting
Sanders – to prepare body for painting
Q. Describe four devices that will be provided in the cockpit of a flight simulator for a trainee pilot to
use.
a machine designed to resemble an aircraft's cockpit, with computer-generated images that mimic the pilot's
view and the aircraft's motion, used for training pilots.
Ans. Any four devices described and one purpose identified or example given from:
Joystick/flight yoke for use by hand linked to potentiometer to record movement by pilot/manoeuvre aircraft
Pedals for use by feet linked to sensor to record movement by pilot
Switches to control inputs to system e.g. lower under-carriage
Microphone to communicate with instructor
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Loudspeakers/headset/headphones to output sound to provide feedback to pilot
Throttle levers linked to sensor/potentiometers for input of engine control
Instruments/dials/display showing current conditions of plane
Navigation display to show direction/location
Large display/screen to project image for pilot to interpret
Q. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the use of flight simulators for training pilots.
Ans. 6 points from:-

Advantages:
There may be no aircraft available to permit training
Passengers would not be happy if a trainee was undertaking tasks
Extremely unusual events can be programmed into the simulator
Events can be repeated as often as required
The operator can adapt the program to suit trainee’s performance
Training can be recorded for future use/automatic assessment
Weather conditions can be created at will
Cheaper than using real aircraft/flights
Safer than using real aircraft
Disadvantages:
Pilots may not consider the simulator as real
Simulators are very expensive to buy and run
Not all events/parameters/conditions can be simulated
Max 5 marks if all advantages or disadvantages [6]
Q. Explain the advantages to the passengers of having computer-controlled information kiosks rather
than manned desks.
kiosks
Ans. Any three points from:
- no long queues at desks
- can be more terminals than desks
- Kiosks not under time pressure (unlike check-in staff)
- Kiosk available 24/7 and not affected by staff taking breaks
- no language problems/multi-language
- no interpersonal arguments
- passengers don’t mind dealing with trivial/ embarrassing questions
- terminal may be easier for passengers with communication difficulties
- more information generally available
- information more likely to be up to date/less inaccurate
- faster processing at check-in desk as fewer questions to be discussed
Q. Discuss the security risks to the system arising from the introduction of electronic information kiosks.
Ans. Any six points discussing the risks from:

NOT what a hacker can do.
AICT AS & A LEVEL
- hackers/fraudsters might gain access to database/server
- use of firewalls
- physical guards
- sensitive data travels to and from the kiosks
- encrypt the data to make it meaningless
- authentication techniques e.g. user ids/ passwords
- levels of access
- need to log out
- digital certification
- need for security if kiosks use Wi-Fi
- people can overlook passengers typing in personal data
- viruses sent to the system if external data link in kiosk
- anti-virus software which is updated regularly
- prevent customers being allowed access to memory devices
- use of firewalls
- spyware giving access to system which can look for security information on the system
- use of anti-spyware software
- use separate systems for customer information and security
Q. Describe how each of these pieces of hardware will be used in the home entertainment system.
Ans.
(i) MP3
(i) Any two points from:
Compatible format for media playing systems/
Playback music files\ability to listen to music files
Data is compressed compared to a CD
Results in 90% compression/- reducing file size/additional storage
NOT any comment on quality [2]
(ii) USB port
(ii) Any two points from:

Enables music to be transferred to from the HMC (note to markers include playing or
recording)
Upload firmware upgrades
Linking to other hardware [2]
(iii) Secure Digital Memory card
(iii) Any two points from:
SD is used to record programmes on DAB radio
Programmes/files can be transferred to music centre
Music on music centre can be recorded onto SD card and transferred to mobile phone
Additional storage device [2]
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Box 2
MIDI Instrument :
Temperature Sensors :
These sensors use a solid-state
echnique to determine thetemperature.
That is to say, they don't use mercury
(like old thermometers), bimetallic strips
(like in some home thermometers or
stoves), nor do they use thermistors
(temperature sensitive resistors).
Pressure Sensor :
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Box 3
Light Sensors
A Light Sensor is something that a robot can use to detect the current ambient light level - i.e. how
bright/dark it is. There are a range of different types of light sensors, including 'Photoresistors', 'Photodiodes',
and 'Phototransistors'.
Graphics Tablet :
Light pen
a handheld pen-like photosensitive device held to the display screen of a computer terminal for
passing information to the computer.
a handheld light-emitting device used for reading barcodes.
(c) identify the following output devices: monitors (CRT, TFT), printers (laser, ink jet and dot matrix),
plotters, speakers, control devices (including motors, buzzers, lights and heaters);
(d) identify suitable uses of the output devices stating the advantages and disadvantages of each:
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Box4
Box 5
Buzzer : an electrical device that makes a buzzing noise and is used for signalling.
(e) describe common backing storage media (including magnetic tapes, CD ROMs, CD Rs, CD RWs, DVD
ROMs, DVD Rs, DVD RWs, DVD-RAM, Blu-ray, minidisk and hard discs, memory sticks, flash memory) and
their associated devices;
AICT AS & A LEVEL
(f) identify suitable uses of the storage media and understand the types of access and access speeds required for
each use (e.g. serial/sequential, direct/random). Describe the comparative advantages and disadvantages of
using different backing storage media;
Box 6
Q. Describe why Rock-ICT are converting their CD and DVD files into MP3 and MP4 format.

- audio and video files are usually very large/MP3 or MP4 files are smaller
- MP3/4 compresses files by up to 90% (needs to imply significant compression)
- e.g. a 60Mbyte CD track becomes a 6Mbyte MP3 file
- sound/video quality is maintained
- normal data compression doesn’t reduce file very much and loses quality
- allows a vast number of files to be stored on MP3/4 devices
- faster download over Internet due to compression
- faster downloads due to increased broadband speeds
- it is now possibly to buy on-line and download the MP file
AICT AS & A LEVEL
- easier to store MP3 files on HD
- ....than to have lots of shelves holding disks
- Increased storage capacity of solid state devices has increased demand for MP3 MP4
files
Box 7
Q. Describe the recent advances in technology which have led to music CDs being replaced by other
media.
Ans. Any four points from:

Ability to download music straight to a computer
Plug and play devices/ease of USB port
Music downloaded to MP3 players
Reduced size of hard discs leading to smaller players
Increased capacity of storage media (flash memory or HD) holding more tracks
Improved compression techniques reducing size of files
Reduced size of batteries leading to smaller devices
Increased battery capacity leading to longer play time
Description of CODEC
Improvements to user interaction with hardware via HMI
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Broadband enables much more downloading of music files
Most modern music is already held in a digital format
Solid state memory leads to more robust players
Use of hard drives to store music rather than CDs
Home entertainment system that combines TV, etc.
Generations of all digital music
Box 8
(g) Identify the following portable communication devices: mobile phones, portable DVD players, portable hard
disk players, portable media players (MP3 players), global positioning systems, satellite navigation systems,
personal digital assistants, Bluetooth devices and handheld computers;
(h) Identify suitable uses of the communication devices in (g) above, stating the advantages and disadvantages
of each.
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Section 2: How organisations use

ICT – Part 1
Candidates should have an understanding of how organisations use ICT. They should be able to describe a
number of uses, giving the hardware and software requirements together with the applications that these uses
can be put to.
Box 1
From Book Air Conditioning system Central Heating System Refrigeration

Car Manufacture Industrial Robots Medical application
Q. Describe how microprocessor control is used in a central heating system.
Ans. Five from:

temperature sensor monitors temperature of room (number pad) to input the required temperature.
Data from the sensors converted to digital (using an ADC)
Microprocessor compares temperature data from the sensor with the pre-set value
If the temperature is higher/lower than preset value a signal is sent… …. to the actuator
if lower microprocessor/actuator switches the heater on
if higher microprocessor/actuator switches the heater off
Digital to analogue conversion required microprocessor sends data to LEDs indicating the current room
temperature
Description of PID
Description of PLC
1 (a) A Valve (1)

B Evaporating unit (1) C Compressor (1)
D Condensing unit (1) [4]
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Q. Describe how microprocessor control is used in this air conditioning system.
Ans. Five from:

The system controls the amount of heat being let out of the system
The valve is controlled by microprocessor to reduce or increase the flow of refrigerant
Microprocessor compares the pressure of the refrigerant to the preset value
If pressure of refrigerant is above preset value microprocessor opens valve wider
If pressure of refrigerant is below preset value microprocessor makes valve opening narrower
Touch screen is used to input the required temperature
Microprocessor compares the temperature of the room to the preset value
If temperature of the room is above the pre-set value the fans remain on/are switched on by
the microprocessor or microprocessor increases their speed
If temperature of the room is below the pre-set value the fans remain/switched off by the microprocessor
Q. Identify all the hardware a programmer would need in order to take part in a video conference.
Ans. One mark for three items, two for five or more from:
PC (with mouse and keyboard) Monitor
Speakers/headphones Broadband network connection/router
Webcam Microphone
Q. Describe the steps the programmer would take to participate in the conference.
Ans. Assemble equipment/load software/access the internet/connect to the internet

Need to log on to system/conference
Webcam normally fixed to top of monitor/moved to ensure programmer can be seen
Communicate by speaking into the microphone
Communicate by looking at the webcam
Examine documents using normal software/share documents using conferencing software
Discuss modifications to documents and physically make amendments
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Q. Faisal wants to remain in contact with his workers and has considered regular video conferences for
this. He feels this would also enable him to check on their work. Describe the extra hardware which
Faisal would have to provide for each worker to take part in a video conference.
Ans. Webcam to input video

Webcam so that images of each worker can be transmitted/sent
Microphone to input voices
Microphone so that workers can speak with each other/Faisal
Speakers/headset to output voices
Speakers in order to hear other workers/Faisal
Q. Explain why Faisal would use a video conference rather than a phone conference.
Ans. You can see the facial expressions/body language of other participants.
It is cheaper to set up/operate/organise than a phone conference.
You can see/amend/share documents that you want to discuss with each other.
Easier to identify whose turn it is/who wants to contribute next.
Ans. Describe three benefits to the company of using electronic faxing rather than traditional, manual faxing.
Ans. Three from:

Saves time/trouble of going to the fax machine to retrieve/send faxes
Equipment costs are lower as there is no need for a dedicated fax machine/phone line
Description of why running costs are lower
Confidential faxes are more secure/on a manual fax any worker could pick it up
Faxes can be downloaded remotely/don’t have to be in office to receive faxes
It is easier to send to many recipients at the same time.
Description of how you are less likely to lose the fax
Q. Describe modern Information and Communication Technology devices John would use today.
Ans. Five from:

Satnav system to find his way to the companies
A laptop/PDA/handheld computer for his appointments
A laptop/PDA/handheld computer/mobile phone for keeping phone numbers
Mobile phone to contact the company he was visiting when in traffic jams
An MP3 player for his music
A laptop to type up reports about his visits
Laptop + hotel phone + Internet connection to find out information about the company
(b) Explain the advantages of these devices to John.
Four from:
Satnav – more up to date maps/easier to locate route
PDA/handheld computer – quicker/easier to search for information
Mobile phone – can be used wherever you are/can send text messages
MP3 player – smaller than CD player/stores more tracks
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Laptop – easier to edit/format text
Internet – easier/quicker to search for information
Such devices are more portable than other methods [4]
Q. Describe the working patterns the company could introduce to avoid staff redundancies or
retrenchment.
Ans. Two from:

Offer workers to go part time Offer workers job sharing [2]
Q. Give the advantages of using flyers to advertise the company locally. Can be produced using own PCs
and printer.
Ans. Flyer doesn’t take very long to produce.

You can distribute them so that they only go to the people you want to see them.
It is a cheaper method than creating a web page/paying a company to advertise
on their website/advertising on local radio/television.
Prospective customers may not have computers/internet/regular electricity supply.
You can target specific groups/Can’t guarantee all the intended audience would
see a poster/web site.
Buzzers Automatic cookers, microwave ovens

Heaters Automatic washing machines, automatic cookers, central heating controllers,
computer-controlled greenhouses
Lights/lamps Computer-controlled greenhouses
Q. Describe ways in which BrazilParcel could advertise its business using ICT.

set up a web site to promote the business
send emails (automatically) to customer base
producing hard copy advertisements using DTP
advertising on large screen display e.g. football ground live display
popups on web sites
advertising/links on other web sites/Pixel Advertising
buy email distribution lists
AICT AS & A LEVEL
producing podcasts
create blogs/twitters
production of adverts for (cable/Digital) tv ... [4]
CAL
A CAL is not a software product; rather, it is a license that gives a user the right to access the
services of the server. Likewise, if you manage the devices on your network using management
software such as Microsoft System Center, a Management License (ML) may be required for the
device being managed.
Q. Using the scenario, describe four features of Computer Aided Learning.
Ans. Four from:

Use of computers as learning resource/teachers can use email to send resources to students/can
put them on the school intranet
Does not replace the teacher
Part of an integrated approach to teaching
Learning technology is only part of whole approach
Should be integrated with text books, worksheets
Teacher is still in control/takes responsibility for where learning will go
Students investigate and research using computers
Use of DVDs/interactive whiteboards/(multimedia/overhead) projectors/televisions
Sometimes use overlay keyboards [4]
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Box 2
Computer Plate Making CTP

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nt3R1fF9XTM
Computerised typesetting
Facsimile Transmission
Q. Describe three steps that Maria would take when using time management software to arrange a new
meeting.
Ans. Three from:

Open her private calendar to see when she is free
Open the public calendar showing when other workers are free
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Identify a suitable time when she is free and when others are free/where there are no clashes
Type in the details of the meeting
Notify others of time/date of meeting
Sets an alarm to alert her when the meeting starts
Q. Vikram will use his computer to help him with his time management. Explain how the computer will
help.
Ans. Six from:

Computer/software organises meeting times
Software used to keep a record of appointments
Software provides alerts regarding imminent start of meetings
Software has a calendar function which can be used as a diary
Software advises when clashes occur
Arranging workload
Usage reports give a breakdown of the time required or spent on individual tasks
By allocating times for tasks realistically it is possible to ensure members of a team
have equitable workloads
Software used to produce Gantt charts for graphically representing progress in projects
Description of construction project management
Software provides a critical path method of scheduling
Software contributes to the management of such projects by identifying project
progress and providing daily and weekly planning
Q. Describe how time management software would help Ali to plan the creation of the website.
Ans. Helps to ensure that project is completed within timescale and budget.
Organises meeting times.
Provides alerts regarding imminent start of meetings.
Can organise Ali’s tasks.
Makes it possible to ensure members of a team have equitable workloads.
Provides a critical path analysis.
Identifies project progress.
Helps daily and weekly planning.
Can act as a stopwatch device.
Reminds the user how long they have been working on that task/how long left.
Enables Ali to see what emphasis is being placed on each task.
Can be used to produce Gantt charts.
Gantt charts
Help to plan out the tasks that are involved in a process.
Graphically represent progress in projects.
Are used to plan the whole process including parallel and sequential activities.
Used to arrange tasks so that parallel tasks finish at the same time.
Software has a Calendar function.
Calendar
Enables Ali to keep a record of his appointments/meeting times.
Advises Ali of/Ali could easily see any clashes (of meetings scheduled for the
AICT AS & A LEVEL
same time and date).
Public calendar identifies a suitable time for a meeting of all members of a team.
Batch processing
Batch processing Pay roll

http://www.igcseict.info/theory/7_2/payroll/
Hybrid batch and interrogational process (book)
Relational Database system :
A relational database management system (RDBMS) is a databasemanagement system (DBMS) that is
based on the relational model as invented by E. F. Codd, of IBM's San Jose Research Laboratory. Many
popular databases currently in use are based on the relational database model.
AICT AS & A LEVEL
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Q. The systems analyst has decided that the staff records and the payroll records should be combined into a
relational database. Describe what a relational database is.
Ans. A relational database consists of a number of separate tables

For example a payroll table and a staff table
Tables are linked to each other…
… using a key field
For example the employee ID
This field is part of other table(s)
Data from one table combined with data from other table(s) when producing reports.
Can select different fields from each table for output
SQL is used for queries and producing reports
AICT AS & A LEVEL
(b) Explain why the systems analyst has decided that a relational database would be preferred to two separate
files.
Data is not repeated so less storage capacity needed

Data retrieval is quicker/easier to search for information
If data was duplicated hackers would have easier access to data
Easier to expand
Data only needs to be amended once
Easier to produce reports with cross-tabular data rather than separate files
In computer science, sequential access means that a group of elements (such as data in a memory array or a
disk file or on magnetic tape data storage) is accessed in a predetermined, ordered sequence. Sequential access
is sometimes the only way of accessing the data, for example if it is on a tape.
Q. Describe what is meant by an ordered sequential file.
Ans. A file where records are stored one after the other using a key field to order them
master file. A collection of records pertaining to one of the main subjects of an information system, such as customers,
employees, products and vendors. Master filescontain descriptive data, such as name and address, as well as summary
information, such as amount due and year-to-date sales.
The master file table (MFT) is a database in which information about every file and directory on an NT File System
(NTFS) volume is stored. There is at least one record for every file and directory on the NTFS logical volume.
Q. Describe five steps in the weekly updating of the master file.
Ans. Five from:

the transaction file is sorted first record in the transaction file read
reads first record in the old master file
They are compared
if records don’t match computer writes master file record to new master file.
if it matches transaction is carried out
if deletion or amendment old master file record not written to file
if amendment, data in transaction file written to master file
process is repeated until end of old master file
remaining records of the transaction file are added to the master file
Q. Describe how data would be stored in the current system of batch processing.
Ans. File will be held in a sequential manner To allow for serial access
Code allocated for credit (paying in slip) Or debit (cheque)
Used to process all records one after the other When updating customer accounts
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Q. Describe, using examples of data from the master and transaction files, five steps in the processing
used in the production of payslips.
Ans. Five from:

Batch processing is used
At the end of each pay period…
…transaction file is sorted into same order as master file
Sorted on employee number
First record in the transaction file is read and first record in the old master file is read
Computer calculates the pay
Using rate of pay from master file
Using hours worked from transaction file
Computer calculates the income tax/insurance/pension contributions
Computer subtracts these from pay
Processed record is written to new master file
Payslip printed (to file)
Process is repeated until end of old master file
Master file is updated
Payslips are printed [5]
Hierarchical database management
The Hierarchical Data Model is a way of organizing a database with multiple one to many relationships. The
structure is based on the rule that one parent can have many children but children are allowed only one parent.
This structure allows information to be repeated through the parent child relations created by IBM and was
implemented mainly in their Information Management System. (IMF), the precursor to the DBMS.
Advantages:
AICT AS & A LEVEL
The model allows easy addition and deletion of new information. Data at the top of the Hierarchy is very fast to
access. It was very easy to work with the model because it worked well with linear type data storage such as
tapes. The model relates very well to natural hierarchies such as assembly plants and employee organization in
corporations. It relates well to anything that works through a one to many relationship. For example; there is a
president with many managers below them, and those managers have many employees below them, but each
employee has only one manager.
Disadvantages:
This model has many issues that hold it back now that we require more sophisticated relationships. It requires
data to be repetitively stored in many different entities. The database can be very slow when searching for
information on the lower entities. We no longer use linear data storage mediums such as tapes so that
advantage is null. Searching for data requires the DBMS to run through the entire model from top to bottom
until the required information is found, making queries very slow. Can only model one to many relationships,
many to many relationships are not supported. Clever manipulation of the model are required to make many to
may relationships. For example; what if a professor teaches classes, and is also a graduate student?
Example of Hierarchical Data model
PAYROLL SYSTEM
Q. The existing payroll system stores the data in an ordered sequential manner so that it can be updated
monthly. Describe how the master payroll file is updated using a transaction file containing details of
workers’ records for amendments, deletions and insertions.
Ans. The transaction file is sorted

First record in the transaction file read
Reads first record in the old master file
If records don’t match computer writes master file record to new master file
If it matches transaction is carried out
if transaction relates to calculation of pay:
Pay is calculated…
….using data from the transaction file
Processed record is written to master file
if transaction relates to deletion, amendment or insertion:
If deletion or amendment old master file record not written to file
If amendment, data in transaction file written to master file
Process is repeated until end of old master file
Remaining records of the transaction file are added to the master file
Q. After the system has been created it will need to be tested. Using examples of payroll data, describe
this testing and how any needed improvements would be identified as a result.
Ans. Testing (each module) with normal data including appropriate example
If error produced – description of improvement required
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Testing (each module) with live data including description
If difference between live and actual results – description of improvement required
Testing (each module) with abnormal data including appropriate example
If error not produced – description of improvement required
Testing (each module) with extreme data including appropriate example
If error produced – description of improvement required
Testing whole system including examples of data
Description of improvements required
Q. Computerising the payroll will require the creation of a master file and a transaction file. Describe
the information that will need to be stored about each worker on each file.
Ans. Master file

2 marks for 4 or more items 1 mark for 3 items
0 marks for less than 3 items
Name/address, tax history, National Insurance history, pay so far this year, holiday
entitlement, pension contributions, rate of pay, tax code, job title, employee number
Transaction file
1 mark for worker’s number and at least one of hours/days worked, bonus payments,
holiday data, days sick
Q. Describe the outputs of the payroll system.
Ans. Four from:

Payslips with description of information included
Financial reports of payroll statistics
Exception reporting
Reports showing hours worked by individual
Report showing cost information by department or individual
Reports including the analysis of the turnover of employees together with detailed
absence reports
Payments to employees automatically generated using BACS
Tax and NI payments automatically made direct to the Inland Revenue
Specification of money required by company for payment to workers/Inland Revenue
Q. Before the payroll system was created the database file structure was designed. Describe four features
of a typical file structure.
Ans. Four from:

Type of database is chosen (flat file/relational)
If it is going to be a relational database number of tables is decided upon…
…a key field to identify each record
…relationships are designed / Entity relationship diagrams are designed
Type of access is decided on
If indexed sequential, index is chosen…
…table of indices designed
Appropriate field names are chosen…
AICT AS & A LEVEL
…relating to data content of field and unique name
Field type is selected….
…such as text, number, Boolean
…appropriate to field contents
Field lengths are chosen so that space/memory is not wasted but leaves room for expansion
Validation rules…
…such as range checks, invalid character checks, check digits
…are chosen appropriate to field contents…
…error message(s) designed
Field descriptions are included…
…which adequately inform about field contents [4]
Q. Give three examples of the data that will be contained in the master file which will change for each
worker every time the payroll application is run.
Ans Three from:

Wages so far this year
Income tax so far this year
Employer insurance contribution so far this year
Employee insurance contribution so far this year
Pay date
Pension contributions so far this year [3]
Box 4
Q. Explain why the company has its call centre in Mumbai and not in the UK.
Ans. Phone operators will be paid less

Buildings needed to house call centres will be cheaper to buy/rent
Call centre opening during normal hours in India would be unsociable hours in UK leading to
a lower wage bill
Operators would be better qualified
Operators would be more motivated
Large population to choose from
Q. Explain why a customer might be frustrated when using an overseas call centre.
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Ans. The operator might not understand UK dialects

The customer might not understand operator’s accent
Operators might have difficulty with UK culture
Operators may be inclined to stick to script/may be unable to answer out of the ordinary
questions
Bad connection resulting in poor quality of communication
Q. Describe the features of the hardware and software Vikram will need to buy to set up the call centre.
Ans. Six from:

Hardware:
A computer to process the calls and a telephone set/headset to speak with customers
A telecom switch to enable the WAN to receive telephone calls
Software:
Computer telephony integration software
CTI software is used to combine the data and voice input to the system
Calling-line information display such as caller's number/number dialled
Software enables on-screen phone control such as automatic answer, hang up, hold,
conference
CTI software requires a dedicated telephony server
Software sends commands from a user's computer to a telephony server
Software directs phone call to appropriate operator
Database to hold records of calls/to provide link to stock/orders database
Database software to enable customer orders to be input to the main computer
database
Q. Describe five differences between first party control and third party control and suggest which type
Wuhan-Yangtse would choose to use in their call centre, giving a reason for your choice.
Ans. Five from:

First-party call control
Allows operator to have a direct connection between their computer and the phone set.
Allows the operator’s computer to control the functions of the operator’s phone.
Third-party call control
Requires a dedicated telephony server to connect the telephone network and the computer network
Operator’s phone communicates directly with the server
The server controls all the phones
The server can direct a call to the appropriate operator
Any computer in the system can control any phone
Supervisors can intervene if the call proves too complex for the operator to handle
First party is only suitable for small call centres. [5]
Third-party call control would be used by Wuhan-Yangtse as it is such a large company/first part
control is only used in small scale operations. [1]
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Q. The call centre system for dealing with customer calls uses third party control with CTI software on
its telephony server. Describe four features of such a system.
Ans. Four from: Description of IVR

Displays caller ids Queues calls
The operator’s phone communicates directly with the server
The server controls all the phones.
The operator’s computer does not control/is not controlled by the phone although it may be
physically connected
Any computer in the system can be used to control any phone
Allows supervisors, for example, to intervene if the call proves too complex for the operator to handle.
The server can direct a call to the appropriate operator
Calls up matching customer records
Displays the script for the operator
Can record conversations with customer
Software enables on-screen phone control such as answer, hang up, hold,
Conference, re-dial
Q. Describe the features of Computer Telephony Integration (CTI) software which will be used in the
call centre.
Ans. Phone calls are processed using interactive voice response (IVR) software.
Does not require a human response.
Automatic services such as giving account information can be accessed by the caller.
CTI allows computers to direct the phone call to appropriate operator.
Calls can be queued/put on hold.
Combines the data and voice input to the system.
Displays the caller's number/number dialled.
Multiple dialling techniques/fast dial/ preview/predictive dial.
Description of first-party call control.
Description of third-party call control.
COMPUTER TELEPHONY INTEGRATION CTI
Q. Give three reasons why the company contacts potential customers by phone rather than advertising
on a website.
Ans. Three from:

Can be sure all targeted customers are reached/not everybody will see the website
It is more personal so will attract customers
It is more interactive/questions can be answered immediately
Can see immediately how successful advertising campaign is/know reasonably accurately how
many customers they will have
Easier to persuade customers to purchase computers
Can contact customers who don’t already have a computer so would not see the website/can
AICT AS & A LEVEL
contact customers whose internet speed is so slow they are reluctant to use it and so might not see the
website
Q Describe four steps involved in Issa setting up a phone conference and give a description of the type of
phone required.
Ans Participants agree time and date of the conference

Issa books phone conference with the phone company for that date
Issa is given two PINs by the phone company
A personal PIN, the participants’ PIN
Issa contacts participants and tells them the participant PIN
Just before the conference Issa dials the phone number keys in his special PIN
Participants phone the same number
Participants join the conference by typing in the participant PIN [4]
All participants need a touchtone phone [1]
Q. Describe how computers would be used to support the call centre operators when dealing with
customer enquiries.

Computer software provides the script
Prompts operator to ask appropriate questions
Leads onto suitable advice provided
Can give access to technical help
Can provide access to product stock file (to tell customer if item in stock)
Can provide operator with (email) link to higher technical level/moving off script
Stores customer file information/can display customer file information
Q. It has been decided to employ more disabled operators at the call centres. Describe `what features the
computer system should have to help these disabled operators.
Ans. Any three points – covering what device and who benefits from it – from:
Touch screen with menus operated by head wands by …
Foot operated devices for pointing by …
Speech synthesis for dumb operators
Microphones for physically handicapped to communicate
Large tracker ball devices for physically handicapped to navigate
Special keyboards/concept keyboards for physically handicapped to select options
Software magnifier for visually impaired
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Section 3: Impact of ICT on society – Part 1

home-based ICT applications including:
Box 1
Online Shopping
Online shopping or e-shopping is a form of electronic commerce which allows consumers to directly buy
goods or services from a seller over the Internet using a web browser. Alternative names are: e-web-store, e-
shop, e-store, Internet shop, web-shop, web-store, online store, online storefront and virtual store.
Online Banking
Q. Describe how data will be stored once the on-line banking system is introduced.
Ans. Files will be held in an indexed sequential manner

A separate table of indices will be stored
The index will allow for direct access
Needed when accessing individual records quickly
When a customer logs on to update/check account details
The records will be held sequentially to allow for serial access
When batch processing as above
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Q. Describe the equipment a bank customer will need if they are going to use the new online banking
system.
Ans. Modem/Router to connect to the system/Internet Mouse to select options/services

Keyboard to type in username/password/amounts Internet browser to connect to the service
Q. Describe the features of a well designed online shopping website.
Ans. An easy-to-remember domain name.

A secure method of accepting payments.
Descriptions/pricing/photos of goods.
Usernames and passwords to make the system secure.
Customers are able to contact shop directly via e-mail.
Allows customers to make use of their orders stored in a database.
Allows customers to see their order and maintain their own accounts.
A shopping basket to hold goods you are going to buy.
Prospective customers should be able to use a temporary shopping basket if they are a ‘guest’.
Permanent shopping basket if they are returning customers.
searches and advanced searches can be carried out easily.
Allow customers to progress smoothly to the checkout/navigate from category to category easily.
Orders can be tracked.
Wishlists which enable users to store the goods they might want to buy in the future.
‘People who bought A also bought B’ recommendations.
Q. Describe some of the security threats that the bank and customers must guard against when using
online banking.
Ans. Call centres employees may copy data to pass on to criminals…

…who use the data to make illegal transactions
Phishing – email appears to be from customer's bank…
…asks for customer’s details – password, card/account number, other security details
…email makes up plausible reason
…includes a website address for customer to go to which looks just like the actual bank’s
website but is a fake website
Pharming – fraudster redirects genuine website’s traffic to own website…
…customer is now sending personal details to fraudster’s website
Spyware is downloaded/software used to gather user's personal details
Software detects key presses of user logging on to bank site
Hacking to get customer personal information to use against the individual/to commit fraud
Hacking in order to transmit viruses
Q. Discuss whether customers should feel concerned about using this online shopping system.
Ans. Personal data are encrypted when they are transferred over the Internet....
…If a hacker intercepts data is unable to decipher the meaning of the data.
…The data can only be decoded if the receiving network server has the correct encryption key.
AICT AS & A LEVEL
More common for fraudsters to use methods such as phishing, pharming.
More common to attach spyware in order to obtain customer data.
If customer's credit or debit card is used fraudulently, in many countries the card company must refund
them.
Customer's have consumer rights such as refunds for faulty goods.
Generally, customers only ever use reputable sites.
Hackers can intercept personal data/payment details.
Could be a fraudulent website.
You can’t check the quality of the goods/you can’t be sure the goods are in
stock/goods don’t arrive/are of the wrong quality/wrong goods delivered.
The order confirmation may be delayed/not be received.
Employees who have access to the payment details must sign a duty of confidence document.
Q. Describe three steps in the online marking process in order for the computer to be able to record the
result for each candidate.
Ans. Three from:

Scanned image of exam paper is saved to file Examiner logs on to system
Examiner loads script Examiner enters mark next to each response
Mark is checked for validity Mark for each question is saved to candidate’s record
Total mark is saved to candidate’s record
Q. Describe three benefits to the examination board of online marking.
Ans. Three from:

Marking process is more accurate Marks are recorded more quickly than by manual methods
Don’t have to pay for posting scripts to examiners Scripts less likely to go missing in the post
Statistical analysis is more easily carried out
Q. There are social implications in providing online shopping systems. Describe three negative effects.
Ans. Any three with the identification and the expansion from:
worsens the digital divide… due to some people not having ICT resources
changing job patterns in high street shops… fewer customers on high street/more ICT
based jobs/fewer unskilled jobs
identity theft… deleting/amending/distributing personal details
open to computer fraud… money taken from credit cards/goods intercepted from online
order details/hacking into systems
more addictive… easy to spend too much
lack of socialising/exercise/try before you buy… plus expansion
3 (a) Describe four ways that the intranet would be used.
3 (a) Any four points from:

Intranets provide secure local email
Intranets enable employees to co-ordinate activities
AICT AS & A LEVEL
e.g. book video conference suite/arrange a meeting through seeing one another’s diaries
Intranet provides fast access to company data
Hold company templates
Hold company specific information secure from the general public
Forums can be set up for discussion of confidential matters
Provides a means of informing employees about news
NOT video conferencing [4]
Candidates should have an understanding of the effects of the use of online services on society including:
Q. Discuss the effects that the introduction of online banking has had on the bank’s employees.
Ans. Increased unemployment for cashier staff/security staff

Increased employment for technical staff/programmers
Increased employment for call centre operators
Some workers have had to/had the opportunity to go part time
The opportunity to job share might have been provided
Flexible working hours may have been made available
Technical staff may be able to work from home
Some workers needed to retrain
Managers could be relocated
Q. Describe the effects that the introduction of the new system will have on the people who work at the
bank in terms of employment and working patterns.
Ans. Increased unemployment for specific bank workers such as cheque processing
workers/cashiers
Increased employment for technical staff
Some workers may have to/will have the opportunity – to go part time
There will be the opportunity to job share
There will be the opportunity for flexible working hours
Workers will need to have the ability to move from branch to branch
Workers may gain new skills
Q. Describe possible changes to the working patterns of call centre operators caused by the new shift
patterns.
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Ans. Some workers may have to/will have the opportunity – to go part time.
There may be the opportunity to job share.
There may be the opportunity for flexible working hours.
Compressed hours may become available.
Some operators are able to work from home.
May lead to more operators being given jobs.
Q. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages to the programmer of working from home.
Advantages:
If the programmer is disabled it’s easier for him/her as he/she doesn’t have to travel
Don’t have to spend money on fuel/transport travelling to work/don’t have to live close to work
Don’t have the stress of travelling to work in rush hour
Can spend more time with their family/can arrange their work schedule to suit themselves
Time is not wasted travelling/more free time because of less travelling
Disadvantages:
Might miss the personal contact with colleagues/more difficult to discuss ideas with colleagues
Home based telework is inappropriate for some people
Many homes are not well equipped for some kinds of telework
Young children might demand attention/friend might drop in and distract programmer/
dog might need to be taken for a walk
May be difficult to find a suitable office space in the home
Q. Describe the personal characteristics(S)that Shaista would need to have before Faisal would
recommend that she be allowed to work from home.
Ans. Be well motivated

Have good communication skills
Have good self-discipline/doesn’t require supervision
Have good time management skills/can meet deadlines
Be well organised
Q. Describe, including their uses, the extra hardware that each worker will need to have in order to work
from home.
Broadband connection/router to connect to the internet…

...to send emails to company/manager(Faisal)
A fax machine to send/receive (translated) documents/documents (that need
translating)
A landline/mobile phone to communicate with Faisal/other translators
A printer to print documents…
…for faxing
…for translating (large documents)/after translating
A scanner to input documents ready for translation/that have been translated...
...so they can be sent as email attachments
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Video conferencing hardware to communicate with other workers
Q. Describe three benefits and three drawbacks to the company of Issa working from home.
Ans. Three benefits from:

Don’t have to spend so much on air conditioning/heating/renting offices
Don’t have to pay travelling expenses for conferences (phone conferences will be used)
Improved motivation
Retention of key staff
Three drawbacks from:
Difficult to keep track of projects/workers/Issa
Have to subsidise manager’s computers
Some companies have management systems and cultures that are not (yet) well adapted to
the flexibility
Not all tasks are best performed in a self managing environment/workers might not work as
effectively without a manager directly overseeing them [6]
Q. Describe three personal characteristics that the sales staff would need to have before Joshua would
recommend them to work from home.
Ans. Three from:

be well motivated have good communication skills
have good self-discipline/doesn’t require supervision
have good time management skills/can meet deadlines
be well organised
Q. Other than heating costs, describe three drawbacks to Rajvinder of working from home rather than
working in the office.
Ans. Three from:

Might miss the personal contact with colleagues/more difficult to discuss ideas with colleagues
Home based telework is inappropriate for some people,
Many homes are not well equipped for some kinds of telework
Young children might demand attention/friend might drop in and distract programmer/dog
might need to be taken for a walk/therefore distracting them from work
May be difficult to find a suitable office space in the home
May be difficult to impress manager giving reduced promotion prospects [
Q. Describe three benefits to the company of sales staff working from home rather than working in the
office.
Ans. Three from:

Don’t have to spend so much on utilities
Don’t have to pay travelling expenses for conferences
Increased productivity due to more content workforce/improved motivation
More likely to retain staff so don’t have to spend money on retraining
Lower costs due to flexible staffing
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Lower costs as can rent smaller/as many offices
JOB SHARING
Q. Describe what is meant by job sharing.

Ans Two from:
Two people sharing a job normally done by one person.
Each person is paid on part time basis though together they do a full time job
One person works specific days/mornings/afternoons while other works remainder
Q. Describe two benefits to the company of workers job sharing.
Ans. Two from:

Company gets the skills of two workers for the price of one
Working fewer hours makes worker fresher/more creative
When company is busy can get the two workers to work together/
If worker is ill or on holiday part of job still gets done/other worker can be invited to cover
No need to (spend money on) train(ing) a new person
The two workers can have different skills, knowledge and experience
May mean that workers stay with the company since they might leave if they had to work full
Time
Q. Describe two drawbacks to the company of workers job sharing.
Ans Two from:

Money may need to be spent on providing an extra desk or additional equipment
Extra training costs for training two workers instead of one
Difficult to arrange training/meeting times/working hours to suit all workers
May be difficult to maintain communication between workers
May be difficult to maintain continuity
Q. One of the ethical implications of staff accessing confidential information in the payroll department is
the need for a duty of confidence. Describe what is meant by duty of confidence.
Ans. Four from:

Employees who handle confidential information about individuals have a personal duty of
confidence both to the individuals and to their employer.
They must not tell anybody except with the permission of the person who told them
They must not use the information for any reason except with the permission of the person
who told them.
If they attempt to tell somebody/use the information the person who told them can take out a
legal injunction preventing them.
In order for a duty of confidence to exist, the employee must be asked to treat the information
as confidential/it must be obvious that the information is given in confidence.
Employer will ask the employee to sign a confidentiality agreement
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Q. Personal information should be summarised in such a way that any negative social and ethical
implications are minimised. Describe two ways of summarising the information.
Ans. Anonymised information is information about individuals without mentioning the person by name [1]
Aggregated information is where personal details of individuals are combined to provide
information without naming those individuals.
Q. Explain why summarised information does not always safeguard personal information.
Ans. Two from:

It is possible to guess the salaries of workers if the department/position is mentioned There may be only
one worker in a specific department and so it is obvious who the company is referring to.
DATA SECURITY MEASURE
Q. Explain what responsibilities the bank has with regard to its customers and the data they will store
about them. Discuss the types of security measure it will need to introduce.
Ans. Max. three from:

Need to protect confidentiality of data/duty of confidence to prevent customer data
being made public
Need to comply with data protection rules
Up to three examples from data protection act with examples why they are used
Responsibilities relating to passing on information from bank to other organisations to
avoid customer being compromised
Max. three from:
Advantage of User id/passwords is that only authorised users have access to the data
Disadvantage of User id/passwords is that users can forget their passwords
Advantage of encryption is that unauthorised people will not understand the data
Disadvantage of encryption is that it is just possible to crack encryption codes
Advantage of duty of confidence requirement in employment contracts is it discourages
workers from spreading personal data around
Disadvantage of duty of confidence requirement in employment contracts is that bank
is relying on workers having sufficient integrity to abide by this
Advantage is that anonymised information is omitted wherever possible
Disadvantage of anonymised information is that some identifiable information may remain included
Advantage of firewall is that it prevents unauthorised computers/users from accessing the system
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Disadvantage of firewall is that it slows down the performance of computers
General disadvantage of any of these is that it restricts individual access by authorized users
Q. Explain the social and ethical implications of bank workers being able to access customers’ personal
information.
Ans. Bank workers have a personal duty of confidence to individuals whose data is stored
Bank workers should have a personal duty of confidence to their employer
Workers must not tell any unauthorised person about personal data which is held
Bank must not use information for any reason except with the permission of the individual
Workers must be asked to treat the information as confidential/it must be obvious to them
that the information is given in confidence
Employer should ask employee to sign a confidentiality agreement
Bank should take responsibility for any information which is passed on
Only the least amount of information that could identify the individual should be used
Online services allow organisations to have access to the most private of data
Examples – names, addresses, phone numbers, financial situation
Information should not be passed on from organisation to organisation without authorization from the
individual
Anonymised information should always omit personal details wherever possible
Aggregated information should never identify individuals
Companies/workers must ensure the security of customer data
Workers must ensure only relevant data is used
Workers should ensure they only use up to date/accurate information
Q. The majority of employees will now be sat working at computers all day. Describe some of the health
and safety issues which arise because of this.
Ans. Five from:

Typing at a keyboard continuously can cause RSI in the fingers/wrist
Gripping a mouse and repetitive clicking can cause RSI in the fingers/wrist
Continual use of a computer can cause RSI to the elbow
Sitting in the same position all day can cause posture problems
Staring at a computer screen all day can cause problems with one’s sight
Too many plugs connected to a socket can be a fire hazard
Bare wires can cause electrocution
Spilt drinks can cause electrocution
Heavy equipment falling off a desk can cause injury
Q. Describe some of the health and safety problems which might occur because of the call centre
operators’ use of computers.
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Ans. Staring at a computer screen all day can cause problems with one’s sight.
Typing at a keyboard continuously can cause RSI.
Gripping a mouse and repetitive clicking can cause carpal tunnel syndrome/ RSI
Sitting in the same position/with wrong posture all day can cause lower back pain.
Staring at a computer screen all day can cause eye strain/headaches.
Poor positioning of screen can cause upper back/neck/shoulder pain
eyestrain/headaches.
Glare from screen can cause eye strain/headaches.
Too many plugs connected to a socket can be a fire hazard.
Bare wires/spilt drinks can cause electrocution.
Trailing wires can cause tripping.
Q. Call centre operators sit at computer terminals for long periods of time. Describe how health
problems result from this computer use.
Ans. Typing at a keyboard continuously can cause RSI/wrist problems/finger problems

Gripping a mouse and repetitive clicking can cause RSI/wrist problems/finger problems/ carpal tunnel
syndrome
Sitting in the same position all day can cause lower back pain
Sitting in the same position all day can cause deep vein thrombosis
Staring at a computer screen all day can cause eye strain/headaches
Poor positioning of screen can cause upper back/neck/shoulder pain
Glare from screen can cause eye strain/headaches
Q. Discuss the effects on the examiners relating to work patterns, health and safety.
Ans. Any five points from:

- transfer of jobs abroad
- need for training to use the system
- a new style of working ….
… involving much less personal contact
- lack of technical support for some examiners not ICT-literate
- much of the short answer questions could be done by the software
- problems associated with working from home e.g. distractions
- health issues including: RSI risks/back/neck ache/eye problems
- techniques used to avoid above e.g. regular breaks with exercises
- stress related problems(e.g. pressure to mark a required number of scripts, fear of being
watched by senior examiner/examination board, etc.)
- may need to work different hours to avoid peak demand on system
- safety issues: risk of electrocution/trip hazards from trailing wires/heavy equipment hazards
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Section 4: Systems life cycle
AICT AS & A LEVEL
(A) ANALYSIS
Different methods of researching a situation
Observation, examination of documents, questionnaires, interviews

Sample Question
Q. Safina has to obtain Ans. OBSERVATION
information about the current Advantage – observing teachers’ lessons enables the systems analyst to
system from the network see the process as a whole
manager and the teachers. Disadvantage – explanation of the ‘Hawthorne effect’
Describe one advantage and INTERVIEWS
one disadvantage for each of Advantage – interviewer can move away from their ‘script’ and ask a
the four methods she could more in-depth question
use to research the current if a particular response is given/can interpret body language
system. Disadvantage – One from:
network manager and teachers have to be available at the time the
systems analyst
wants to interview them/may not have the time/can take a long time to
interview all the teachers
interviewees might try and provide answers which they think the
interviewer wants to hear
QUESTIONNAIRE
Advantage – One from:
can be anonymous and answers tend to be, on the whole, more accurate
everyone can complete the questionnaire at the same time instead of one
after the other
(as with interviews)/can complete it at their leisure
Disadvantage – it is very difficult to ask further questions based on the
response to another question
EXAMINING DOCUMENTS
Advantage – helps to identify the inputs and outputs of the
system/volume of data can be
determined/processing can be deduced
Disadvantage – can take a long time to collate documents
Establishing the inputs, outputs and processing in the existing system
Identify the sources and volume of input data and collection methods. Identify the input
documents currently in use. Determine frequency addition/deletion of records. Identify
manual and computer procedures necessary to achieve the current output
Recording information about the current system
Data flow diagrams (Level 0 DFD – context diagram and Level 1 DFD – current system),
system
Flowcharts
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Identifying problems with the current system
Observation, examination of documents, questionnaires, interviews
Identifying suitable hardware and software for a new system
Analysing required outputs, storage and processing requirements
Sample Question
Q. In her analysis of the Ans. Three matched pairs from:
current system, Safina The required outputs, storage and processing requirements were known
identified the software and using the data flow diagrams
hardware required for the The requirements helped to identify the type of input and output
new system. Give detailed devices
descriptions of three results The terminators and flow arrows in the DFD showed the volume of
of the analysis that enabled input data
her to do this. Knowing the volume of input data allowed her to decide on an
appropriate method of input to the system
Observing the processes in a lesson gave her an idea about the size and
speed of the processor required
Observing the processes gave her an idea of the types of software
required
The results of examining documents would be recorded on DFDs
The stores in the DFD show the volume of data in the system
Knowing the volume of data would have helped identify the size and
number of storage devices
Terminators and flow arrows out of the system indicate the
quantity/format of the output
knowing the volume of output will help to identify an appropriate
method of output from the system
User requirements would be known using interview
transcripts/completed questionnaires
knowing the user requirements helped to identify appropriate
input/output devices/software
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Identifying the user and information requirements
(B) DESIGN
Specifying the required hardware and software
Volume of data will determine the choice of output devices. The order that data is output
affects choice of storage devices
Designing data collection forms, screen layouts
These depend on the user requirements as well as output required from system and file
structures
Designing report layouts and screen displays
The content and presentation of reports, layouts and screen displays depend on the
requirements of the users
Designing validation routines
These are determined by the form of input and file structures
Designing the required data and file structures and programming specifications
AICT AS & A LEVEL
The data structures and programming depend on the types of processing, and input and
output structures
Q. Describe four different items that the systems analyst will need to include at the design stage. Using
the scenario of Dar Es Salaam High School, explain the factors that will influence the choice of each item.
Q. Describe the different items that the systems analyst will need to include at the Design stage and
explain the factors that will influence the choice of item.
Ans. One mark for each item and one mark for each example of factors (maximum 5 marks for factors) Total
Item Factors: an example of how:
Specifying the required hardware and software
• the volume of data determines the choice of output devices
• the order that data will be output affects the choice of storage devices
Designing data collection forms/screen layouts
• the user requirements influences the format
• the output required from system influences the design
• file structures affect the design
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Designing report layouts/screen displays
• the content and presentation of report layouts/screen displays depend on the requirements of the users
Designing validation routines
• the form of input affects these
• the file structure affects these
Designing the required data/ file structures/programming specifications
• the data structures/programming depend on the types of processing
• the file structure depends on the input and output structures
Q. Validation rules will need to be designed. Using examples of fields that would be found in the
hospital’s payroll file, describe the validation checks which could be needed.
Ans. One mark for description of validation checkOne mark for matched field
Three from:
Description of length check
Works number/tax code/social security number/sort code/account number
Description of format/picture check
Works number/tax code/social security number/sort code/date of birth
Description of invalid character check
Tax Code/sort code/account number/number of days
Description of range check
Income tax/gross pay/net pay/number of days
Description of check digit
Account number
Description of Boolean check
Gender
Description of presence check
Works number/tax code/sort code/account number/social security number/gender/rate of
pay/date of birth/number of days
Description of existency check
Works number
AICT AS & A LEVEL
(C) DEVELOPMENT AND TESTING
Creating data structures, program modules
Testing strategies
Testing each module with normal and live data
Sample Question
Q. When the new Ans. Live data
system is developed it Live data is data that has been used in the existing system/is data which will
will need to be tested. be used
One way of doing this because the outputs are already known.
is to use live data. Three from:
Explain what live data He will select a session where there may have been special circumstances
is and, using examples He will also choose another session where it was quite an average session.
from the scenario, He will then run this/these sets of data on the new system
describe three steps in He will compare the results with the grades already in existence
the use of live data to If there are differences between the results amendments will need to be made
test this system. to the system.
Testing each module with abnormal and extreme data

Testing whole system
Improvements that could be needed as a result of testing
Adjust structures, program modules in line with the results of testing
Q. The new system will not replace the old shop based system entirely. Describe two appropriate
implementation strategies for the new and old systems to run together and explain your choices.
Ans. One mark for describing each strategy + one mark for reason related to the scenario
parallel running…
… to enable both systems to operate together and integrate both/there is a back-up
system if the new one fails
pilot scheme…
… this enables one area/shops change to new scheme/until new system proven
phased implementation…
… (one area is changed over and) gradually spreads throughout the company
(D) IMPLEMENTATION
Identifying the different methods of system implementation
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Parallel running, direct changeover, phased implementation and pilot running

(d) The new system will need to be implemented. Compare and contrast the different methods of
implementation that the company could use.
Three marks max. for descriptions and three marks max. for comparisons from:
Parallel running – involves running the old system alongside the new system
Is more expensive than direct changeover because two sets of workers have to be paid
If there is a problem with the new system still have the old system as a backup unlike
direct changeover
It is a slower method of implementation than direct changeover
Phased implementation – involves implementing one part of the system at a time
Cheaper than parallel running as you don’t employ two complete sets of workers
If there is a problem with the new system still have bulk of old system to fall back on
unlike direct changeover
Pilot running – involves running new system in one branch of the organisation whilst
old system still operates in other branches
Cheaper than parallel running as you don’t employ two complete sets of workers
If there is a problem with the new system it only affects one branch unlike other methods
Other branches can learn from the mistakes made in first branch to have the new system
Direct changeover – involves replacing the old system with the new system all in one go
Cheaper than parallel running as you don’t have to employ two sets of workers
Quicker as there is no delay waiting for bugs to be fixed unlike other methods/benefits
of the new system become apparent immediately unlike other methods
If there is a problem you don’t have the old system to fall back on unlike other methods [6]
(E) DOCUMENTATION
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Designing and developing elements of technical documentation
Developing systems documentation (results of systems analysis, what is expected of the system,
overall design decisions, test plan and test data)
Sample Question
Q. When the new Ans. Five from:
system was A detailed overview of the whole system Data Flow Diagrams/systems
implemented the flowcharts
systems analyst … to show the results of systems analysis What is expected of the system
would have Overall design decisions … to see the choice of
produced some hardware and software
systems … to see the file structure/ input and output formats
documentation. Test plan and test results to be reused when systems analyst debugs system systems
Describe what is flowcharts
included in Gives an overall view of solution
systems Test data/test plans so that systems analyst can see the results of these/test results.
documentation
and explain why
each item is
needed.
Developing program documentation (description of the software, purpose of the software, input
data formats, output, flowcharts, program listing, notes to assist future modifications)
Q. Describe the two types of technical documentation including details of the contents of each one.
Ans. Systems documentation....

....provides a detailed overview of the whole system.
Test data/test plans so that systems analyst can see the results of these/test results.
Can use this data again to check if errors have been successfully removed.
The results of the systems analysis/DFD diagrams.
What is expected of the system/purpose of the system.
Overall design decisions such as the choice of hardware and software/file,
input and output structures.
Systems flowcharts. Program documentation....
....produced for program code that has been written. Description of the software/purpose of the software.
Reasons for choosing those pieces of existing software that were used…
….. instead of the programmer having to write code. Input and output data formats.
Program flowcharts/algorithms.
Program listing – this will be a complete copy of the code used…
…and annotation explaining what each module of code does.
Notes that will help any future programmer to make modifications to the system.
Q. Explain the purpose of technical documentation.
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Ans. Produced specifically for systems analysts/programmers.
Helps when the system needs further development/upgrading/improvements.
Helpful should any errors occur in the system and system needs amending to get rid of these errors.
Designing and developing elements of user documentation
A guide to simple elements of use of the software and hardware that make up the system
(F) EVALUATION
Evaluating a new system in terms of the efficiency, ease of use and appropriateness of the solution.
Using test results to evaluate the solution

Obtaining feedback from the user
The results of this evaluation are used to identify limitations
Using knowledge of the limitations to make improvements
Q. After the system has been tested Joseph will need to produce an evaluation of it. Describe three
methods of obtaining feedback from examiners using the new system and for each give a different
drawback of the method.
Ans. Three matched pairs from:

Method: Could observe examiners/users performing set tasks and record their progress
using video recording/ Get an examiner/user to perform a task and measure the
time it takes them to carry out the task
Drawback: Description of the Hawthorne effect
Method: Interview examiners/users to gather their responses about what they thought of
the system and how easy it was to use.
Drawback: Examiners/Users have to be available at the time the analyst wants to interview
them/time consuming as can only interview one user at a time/may get answers
which the user thinks the analyst wants to hear
Method: Hand out questionnaires to them to ask them about their thoughts on the new
system with regard to how easy they found it to use.
Drawback: They may give answers which are exaggerated as they are
anonymous/question cannot be changed once they are typed up/follow up
questions cannot be asked.
Q. After the system has been developed it will be evaluated. Describe how test results are recorded and
explain how they affect this evaluation.
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Ans. (A table) showing the type of test, test data, expected results, actual results
and a comment on the results. (One mark for three column headings, two
marks for 5 column headings.)
Test results will help the systems analyst to make judgements.
Comparison will be made of the actual results with the expected results.
If the results are not as expected system will need to refined.
Comments in the comparison table contribute to the evaluation
Q. After the system has been implemented it will need to be evaluated. Describe how the new system will
be evaluated and how the results of this evaluation will be used.
Ans. Four from:

Test results are used to evaluate the new system
Expected results are compared with actual results
If there are differences refinements will be necessary
User is asked for his/her views on the new system
Results are used to identify limitations
Limitations are used to make improvements to the system
Final system compared with design
AICT AS & A LEVEL
4.2 ADVANCED LEVEL

Section 5: How organisations use ICT – Part 2
Candidates should have an understanding of a range of work-related ICT applications (hardware/software
requirements/expected knowledge/skills), including:
See : Power point Presentation.
EXPERT SYSTEM
An expert system is computer software that attempts to act like a human expert on a particular subject area.
Expert systems are often used to advise non-experts in situations where a human expert is unavailable (for
example it may be too expensive to employ a human expert, or it might be a difficult to reach the location).
Diagnosing a person’s illness

Diagnostics (car engine faults, circuit board faults etc)
Prospecting for oil and minerals
Tax and financial calculations
Chess games
Identification of plants, animals, chemical compounds
Road scheduling for delivery vehicles
knowledge-based Editor Interface Engine
AICT AS & A LEVEL
An expert system is a knowledge-based system which attempts to replace a human 'expert' in a particular
field. The system will consist of
a large database of knowledge

facilities for searching the knowledge database
a set of rules for making deductions from the data
An engine to apply those rules (inference engine)
Q. Describe the two parts of a knowledge base in the expert system.

Facts base
Holds the data collected from experts
Rules base
Holds the rules as a series of IF…THEN…
Tests the input data
Backward/forward chaining
Q. Describe in detail one other part of the expert system.
One item identified and one description from:

Explanation system
providing a trace of the reasoning that produced a decision
User interface
using a display
to allow user to input data/request
Inference engine
which reasons by chaining
used in conjunction with rules base to reason through a problem
to provide a solution
Knowledge base editor
used to edit data
input/update facts
Q. Describe the contents of the following three reports produced from the DBMS.
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Ans. Three descriptions of reports e.g.:
Average time of call by operator
Used to rank operators
Identify weaker operators for training/sacking
Comparison with previous sessions
Statistics on number of calls made
Proportion of calls rejected
Totals calls by operator
Identification of best operator for prize
Costs associated with survey
Operators’ total time
Call costs
Computer time costs
Q. Describe how Derek, the project manager, would use a financial model during the planning stage.
(a) Any three points from

Company inputs predicted costs/values as data
Model outputs production costs/staff required
Profit prediction made
System values are adjusted-‘what if’ scenario
Use of goal-seek/break even point
Costs of individual parts are totalled [3]
(b) Describe the data that Derek would input into the finished model.
(b) Any three points from:

Cost of materials
Cost of manufacturing
Projected sales figures
Estimated selling price of system
Projected economic conditions
Profit margin required
Variable to adjust for break even calculation [3]
Q. Explain why the use of the expert system for approving a loan would benefit the bank.(Financial
Planning)
Ans. Any three points from: Much faster to reach a decision for bank
Reduced number of bad debts for bank
…gives more accurate advice than a bank employee
Leading to better customer satisfaction
Reduced staffing required to deal with customer requests
…lowers payroll
Q. Describe how the knowledge base of the expert system could be set up.
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Ans. Any two points covering either design or installation from:

- knowledge engineer collects information from experts and from other systems (needs at
least two sources)
- a reference to data mining
- a knowledge base is designed
- implement forward chaining in system
- a rules base is designed to be used by the inference engine
- develop a suitable user interface with validation rules
- design the questions for a user
- create an explanation system for output
- system would be checked using data with known outcomes
- production of user manuals/training of staff in E/S use
- a test plan designed with known answers from experts
- an implementation plan set up
Q. Explain how the knowledge base of the expert system will be edited.
Ans. Any three from:

- using built in text editor of the system - system adds new facts automatically to database
- from company server - remote access to knowledge base and amended
- by research staff - using text editor directly on knowledge base
Q. Describe the advantages to Brazil Parcel of using an expert system.( Route Scheduling for delivery
vehicles)
Ans. Any two points from:

system produces most efficient route
company can save fuel/less wear and tear on vehicles
company will know nearest driver in case of urgent pickup
drivers save time in planning journey/driving hours
able to give customers better predicted delivery times
can be uploaded to a SatNav
Q. Describe how the expert system would be set up and maintained.

gather information from maps, drivers, etc.
key information in to the knowledge base
knowledge base contains information about routes (e.g. distance between locations)
create the rules base which stores relationships between locations etc.
create the inference engine which does the logic processing
determine the input data/method required
test the system with known current routes
GPS route data added to knowledge base
develop validation rules
determine the output/means required when new or better routes found, update the
AICT AS & A LEVEL
system/upload new road information e.g. roadworks
feedback on success of route after each journey
Q. Describe how the monitoring system in an ICU would determine whether a doctor or nurse needs to
be warned about the patient’s condition. (Medical Diagnoses Expert System)
Ans. Any four points from

It is a continuous process
Sensors collect patient information/vital signs
Analogue signal from sensors needs to be converted by ADC to digital signal
Computer files contain acceptable data ranges
If data is outside acceptable range …
… Computer/microprocessor signals alarm e.g. trace goes red
If not then continue to monitor
Q. What are the advantages of using the computer patient monitoring system (Medical Diagnoses Expert
System)?

Gives 24/7 cover qualified e.g. leaving nurses free to deal with other matters/lower
costs using microprocessor rather than nurses
Humans can misinterpret signs/microprocessor can detect small changes
Can be programmed to monitor specific areas
Rapid response to any problems
Can monitor several parameters at once
Need for fewer highly trained staff
Can be linked into auto administration of drugs
More accurate measurements than a human
More reliable results than a human
Q. Describe how the Expert System would be used to help diagnose an illness.

Doctor enters answers to a series of computer questions
Knowledge base/fact base compared/searched
using inference engine …
… and rules/rule base
Output produced giving % probability of diagnosis
Doctor taken through a series of logical steps
Q. Describe the advantages and disadvantages of using an Expert System in this application.

(Max of 2 marks for advantages and max of 2 marks for disadvantages)
Reduces time taken to diagnose an illness
Need for fewer skilled staff qualified …
AICT AS & A LEVEL
More accurate than a consultant
Reduced chance of errors helps the doctor make a diagnosis
Portable systems can be used anywhere
Emotionally separates the doctor from the patient
Expensive to set up e.g. collect data/create program
Extensive training for doctor on how to use system needed
Needs to be kept up to date at all times
Requires work station in all offices …
… therefore potential security risks
Q. Describe how computers are used by Pyramid ( Company Name) in their research.
Ans. Any six points from:

Previous results of research work stored …
… can X-match results and save time and money
Results from tests on certain drugs stored
Avoids need to repeat expensive tests
Can predict likely outcome of doing certain tests on drugs
Computers can automatically control and monitor mixing of ingredients
Storage of analysis results/can check analysis results against specification
Do statistical analysis of results
A description of collaborative research
Requirement for super computer due to amount of processing
Administering drug trials – feedback and monitoring
Modelling human system and testing drugs in this way
Q. How could appropriate software be used by the company to determine the selling price of the drug?
Ans. Any two from: Use of spreadsheets to do … Use of expert systems to do …

Take into account company costs (price based on % profit level)
Goal seeking
AICT AS & A LEVEL
http://www.igcseict.info/theory/2/sensor/
AICT AS & A LEVEL
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Q. The diagram below shows one of Niagara Drug’s chemical processes. This process is dependent on pH
and temperature. Sensors are used to relay back information.
pH sensor acid heater temperature sensor microprocessor

Describe how the sensors and microprocessor are used to control the conditions in the
chemical process.

- pH sensor and/or temperature sensor send signal to microprocessor
- signal converted to digital by ADC if signal is analogue
- microprocessor compares input values …
…against previously stored range
- if pH too low, sends signal to actuator to open valve and add acid
- if ph in range then do nothing/signal sent to close valve
- if temperature too low, sends signal to actuator to turn on heater
- system continually monitors pH and temperature
- if temperature is in correct range then do nothing/signal sent to actuator to turn heater off
- microprocessor sends signals to control room displays to allow operators to monitor conditions
- microprocessor can send signals to warn operators of malfunction
- sensors also on heater and acid feed …
- …to warn of (local) malfunction e.g. out of acid/heater not working
Timeline Software
Q. Describe four features of construction project management which will improve the probability of
finishing the project on time.
Ans. Four from:

Uses critical path method/Gantt/PERT charts finding optimum time to be spent on individual stages
PERT charts specifies the order in which tasks are completed
Critical path specifies the order in which tasks must be completed
Gantt charts help to show progress of individual tasks
Software helps identify progress made in each task
Software helps with daily and weekly planning
Identifying progress/lack of progress helps with planning future tasks
Some tasks can be done in parallel such as developing software and installing hardware,
installing network cabling
Other tasks must be done in sequence such as installing hardware, installing software, testing
network
PM Software
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Project management software is software used for project planning, scheduling, resource allocation and change
management. It allows project managers (PMs), stakeholders and users to control costs and manage budgeting,
quality management and documentation and also may be used as an administration system. Project management
software is also used for collaboration and communication between project stakeholders.
PROJECT MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE

Although project management software is used is a variety of ways, its main purpose is to facilitate the planning
and tracking of project components, stakeholders and resources.
Project management software caters to the following primary functions:
Project planning: To define a project schedule, a project manager (PM) may use the software to map project
tasks and visually describe task interactions.
Task management: Allows for the creation and assignment of tasks, deadlines and status reports.
Document sharing and collaboration: Productivity is increased via a central document repository accessed by
project stakeholders.
Calendar and contact sharing: Project timelines include scheduled meetings, activity dates and contacts that
should automatically update across all PM and stakeholder calendars.
Bug and error management: Project management software facilitates bug and error reporting, viewing,
notifying and updating for stakeholders.
Time tracking: Software must have the ability to track time for all tasks maintain records for third-party
consultants.
Project management software has the capacity to help plan, organize, and manage resource pools and develop
resource estimates.
GANTT CHART
a chart in which a series of horizontal lines shows the amount of work done or production completed in certain
periods of time in relation to the amount planned for those periods.
Q. How are Gantt charts and other project management tools used to ensure the project meets its
objectives and is completed on time?
Ans. Any four points from: Gannt chart shows all stages/tasks to be done
Gannt chart shows the critical path(s) Gannt chart shows key project milestones
Gannt chart also shows: number of days to do tasks
progress on tasks as % complete progress vs expected time to do work
how tasks are all linked together
Allows emailing of tasks/project info to others automatically
Can use www/intranet to post or download project information
Allows use of PERT charts Alert can be sent if target not met
Allows use of resource graphs
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Q. Explain how project management tools could be used to monitor the progress in producing the
prototype home entertainment system.
(c) Use of any four of the following:

Milestones identified
…such as selection of hardware components
Time required for each stage set
Project broken into smaller tasks
Tasks that can run in parallel identified
…such as write software and design casing
Tasks dependent upon previous ones identified
…e.g. cannot determine software until hardware decided
% Progress reported week by week
Alarms if task is late/ reminder when task due to finish or start
Critical path identified through whole project
Allocate resources
Identify workloads
GANTT chart illustrating project
Use of PERT
Event chain diagrams [4]
Q. Describe how project management software can be used to assist the team in meeting the project
targets.

(Gannt charts) show all stages/tasks to be done
(Gannt charts) show the critical paths(s)
(Gannt charts) show key project milestones
(Gannt charts) also show:
– number of days to do tasks
– progress on tasks as % complete
– progress versus expected time to do work
– how tasks are all linked together
– how financial targets are being met
allows emailing of tasks/project information to others automatically/post to website or
download project information
allows use of PERT charts
allows use of resource graphs
AICT AS & A LEVEL
An array of prototypes leading to the final design. A prototype is an early sample, model, or release of a
product built to test a concept or process or to act as a thing to be replicated or learned from. It is a term used
in a variety of contexts, including semantics, design, electronics, and software programming.
Q. Explain how CAD/CAM could be used in the design and production of the prototype.
any five points from

CAD
Computer Aided Design is used by engineers to design accurate drawings of a component
Component/prototype can be tested before it is produced
Can modify designs as result of testing under variety of conditions
3D views can be created from 2D drawings
Can zoom/view from different angles
Total cost of a product can be calculated using a database of parts held by program
CAM
Computer Aided Manufacture linked to computer system
CAD generates a list of instructions for the Computer Numerically Controlled lathe/similar
appropriate device
To cut product to designed dimensions
Using LOGO type commands
And monitoring the dimensions of the prototype
Q. 3D inkjet printers can be used to produce prototype plastic working models as part of CAD/CAM.
Q. Describe how these models are produced by the printer.

thin layer of powder sprayed from ink jet spray head
AICT AS & A LEVEL
machine repeats process building up layer after layer to form object
it uses slicing (tomographic) technology
places a binder/glue during the layering process
can use plaster or ceramic in powder form [2]
Q. Explain why it is useful to produce these prototype models.
Ans. can handle/see components (before expensive tooling up)

less expensive than making a model by conventional methods
can test model (before expensive tooling up) [2]
Q Name two other output devices used in CAD and explain why they are used.
Ans. One mark for device + one mark for reason:

graph plotter
– produce large scale drawings on paper
– very accurate drawings on paper to any scale
large screen
– to allow development of new designs/products
– allows enlargement of components
– allows use of light pens (etc.)
second monitor
– to show commands
The action or activity of gathering information about consumers' needs and preferences.
the primary market research techniques
Surveys. With concise and straightforward questionnaires, you can analyze a sample
group that represents your target market. The larger the sample, the more reliable your
results will be.
In-person surveys are one-on-one interviews typically conducted in high-traffic locations such as shopping
malls. They allow you to present people with samples of products, packaging, or advertising and gather
immediate feedback. In-person surveys can generate response rates of more than 90 percent, but they are
costly. With the time and labor involved, the tab for an in-person survey can run as high as $100 per
interview.
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Telephone surveys are less expensive than in-person surveys, but costlier than mail. However, due to
consumer resistance to relentless telemarketing, convincing people to participate in phone surveys has grown
increasingly difficult. Telephone surveys generally yield response rates of 50 to 60 percent.
Mail surveys are a relatively inexpensive way to reach a broad audience. They're much cheaper than in-person
and phone surveys, but they only generate response rates of 3 percent to 15 percent. Despite the low return,
mail surveys remain a cost-effective choice for small businesses.
Online surveys usually generate unpredictable response rates and unreliable data, because you have no control
over the pool of respondents. But an online survey is a simple, inexpensive way to collect anecdotal evidence
and gather customer opinions and preferences.
Q Describe the primary market research techniques that would be used.

1 mark for identifying method, 1 for expansion
- CAPI (computer assisted personal interviewing)
- sit in front of computer and answer on screen questions
- interviewer asks questions prompted by computer
- CATI (computer assisted telephone interviewing)
- basically call centres used in this technique
- computer dials phone numbers of target audience and then interview takes place using script
- CAWI (computer aided web interviewing)
Q. Describe how ICT would have been used in the market research which Rock-ICT carried out.

send out questionnaires/surveys to target groups
carry out personal interviewing in shop/street
carry out telephone/email surveys of target groups
… using a computer based script
web sites/pop-ups – ask views/collect information online
monitor sales of items from shops
research results – competitors/academics/consumer trends
target groups log on to discussion board (i.e. forum) to give their opinions
input results from questionnaires using ICT e.g. OMR reader
store all the information on a database …
… and (later) analyse the information
produce a report showing results of surveys
Do not penalise more than once for not using the scenario [5]
Q. The systems analyst started the design stage following feedback from the market research. Describe
three of the tasks done at the design stage apart from designing the screen layouts.
Ans. One mark for each design item + one mark for description:
AICT AS & A LEVEL
specify what hardware is needed…
… volumes of data handled will determine the choice of hardware
specify what software is needed…
… web shop features will determine the choice of software
design the validation rules…
… form of input and file structures will determine validation tests
design the file structures…
… will be determined by what is stored, type of data, etc.
design of DFD…
… showing the flow of data through the system
design report layouts…
… e.g. customer receipt, stock report
design backup system…
… routines/hardware required
Q. Describe how market research would have been carried out for Jollywood.

Send out questionnaires/surveys to target groups
Research what competitors are doing
Description of personal interview
Description of telephone surveys
Customer uses a web site to complete questionnaire
Description of how customer using web site is prompted to fill in questionnaire
Monitor sales of items from the shops
Store all the information on databases …
… and later analyse the information
Produce report showing results of the surveys [5]
A supercomputer is a computer that performs at or near the currently highest operational rate for computers.
A supercomputer is typically used for scientific and engineering applications that must handle very large
databases or do a great amount of computation (or both).
AICT AS & A LEVEL
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Online Banking
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Online Shooping
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Online Booking
http://www.igcseict.info/theory/7_2/book/
AICT AS & A LEVEL
JUST IN TIME : denoting a manufacturing system in which materials or components are delivered
immediately before they are required in order to minimize storage costs.
Q. Explain how a “just in time” system could be used by Jollywood at the warehouse.

Customer orders trigger a need to restock
Computer sends order to supplier
Supplies are ordered
To arrive at the warehouse as required e.g. within 48 hours
As required for selling/distribution
Could be sent direct to customer
Avoids need for large stores
Reduces cost by not having a lot of unsold items on shelves
Q. Describe four steps in the Just in Time process that could be used in supplying the components.

An item would be ordered to be delivered at a specified time
Just in time to be fitted to the simulator
Order triggered automatically by stock control system when stocks are at re-order level
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Automatic stock control system
http://www.igcseict.info/theory/7_2/stock/
Q. Each item at the warehouse is marked with a bar code. Describe how an automatic stock control system
would be used.

The bar code is read
Stock file holds details of item sold
Record found on stock file using key fields/bar code number
Number if items in stock reduced by 1 for each item sold
If number in stock Y re-order level …
… automatic order sent out
When new stock arrives
Stock levels of that item increased accordingly
Automatic print out of stock levels
AICT AS & A LEVEL

the use of interactive ICT applications including:
Q. Describe the advances in ICT that have taken place to allow this type of marking to be adopted.

- faster broadband connections
- allow transmission of the large files
- wider availability of broadband
- cost of broadband for examiners has fallen
- high speed/high quality scanners
- processor speed in computers
- improvements in security software/protocols
- use of multi-screen/high resolution screen by examiners
- reduced cost in ICT systems enabling examiners to buy high specification PCs
- software developed for on-screen marking
- It is now commercially viable to develop the software
Q. Describe how the lack of ICT access and skills would disadvantage communities within the region.
Ans. Any six points with disadvantage(s) from e.g.:

Limited access to:
Education services
limiting school education/university entrance
no access to research facilities
Health services
e.g. lack of access to doctor or dentist services lowering life expectancy
no access to online services e.g. NHS Direct
Employment opportunities
not knowing if there are vacancies in big cities/going to big city and being turned away
no applications for jobs
Smaller market for local products
no online sales for e.g. craft ware
no online advertising
Local government community services
house stock availability
planning applications
Local government news service
updates not easily accessed
policies not easily accessed
Communications limited due to lack of infrastructure
Reduced speed of communication
Web services such as e-commerce, email, information searching
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Limited ICT skills:
Lack of computer skills e.g. not skilled in application use e.g. word-processing
Unable to apply or jobs online
Lack of skills in e.g. searching for information
Reduced access to information
Reduced ability to evaluate information/news
Reduction in ability to communicate information.
Q. Describe how a satellite television system works.

- signals from tv station sent to (uplink) satellite dish ….
- … signal is encrypted
- … which points at broadcast satellite orbiting the Earth
- transponder on satellite sends signal to Earth
- where it is picked up by the receiving dish
- shape of dish ensures signal converges on LNB (low noise blockdown) converter
- the signal is amplified by the LNB
- satellite receiver box converts signal understood by tv
- signals received need to be decoded/decrypted
- (use of a viewing card) allows decryption to be carried out
Q. Describe the advantages of using satellite-based systems rather than using terrestrial television.
Ans. Any three points to both users and Rock-ICT from:

advantages include for the user:
- not affected as much by weather conditions/
- reception not as affected by hills, tall buildings etc. can be better quality than terrestrial
- more tv stations available/can receive programs transmitted from overseas/other side of
world
AICT AS & A LEVEL
- Electronic Program Guide is much better than terrestrial
- the dish is more compact than a large TV aerial
for Rock-ICT:
- can provide more channels
- pay to view can be implemented generating income
- interactive shows can attract more viewers
- programmes can be repeated filling extra channels
- one satellite can cover a much wider area than a terrestrial system
Q. Describe how the system will match an e-ticket to a passenger when they check in at the airport.

- lead passenger will have paid by credit card number
- and has to give passport number…
- … name matched up with credit card holder and/or passport
- ticket details emailed to lead passenger
- email printout used as confirmation
- email contains a unique (bar) code which identifies passenger
- check-in details match up with stored passenger details
Q. Describe the advantages of e-tickets when compared to paper-based tickets.
Ans. Any three points both for passenger and airline from:
- reduces booking expenses for airline
- no need to print out tickets
- no need for postage or envelopes
- saving on staff and accommodation costs
- passenger feels more in control by selecting seats in advance
- more convenient/easily re-printed
- can’t be lost/stolen/mis-placed
AICT AS & A LEVEL
- less prone to fraud
- passenger can print out own ticket, no waiting for delivery
- speeds up check-in at airport benefits passengers and airline/cuts down queues
- easier for passenger to buy tickets (i.e. online bookings/no need to go to travel agent)
- system remembers customer details
- from history
- from membership number
- simpler for passengers at airport; only need a form of id
Q. State three items of information that would be stored on the passport.

- passport type
- country of issue
- nationality
- passport number
- entry and exit stamps with dates/ countries visited
- photograph
- name of passport holder
- date of birth
- place of birth
- occupation
- issuing office
AICT AS & A LEVEL
- holder’s signature
- gender
- date of issue/expiry
- any visa associated with passport
- additional security information/biometric data
Q. Describe the electronic components in the passport.

- embedded chip in one of the passport pages / similar in concept to a smart card holding
biometric and other data
- use of embedded “ring circuit”/RFID for communication
Q. Describe three advantages of electronic passports when compared to paper-based passports.

- information on the chip is quicker to read by computer
- easier to update from a computer
- more information can be stored on the electronic passports
- more difficult to “tamper” with the information
- more difficult to produce illegal/non-authorised/forged passports
- difficult for somebody to use the wrong/stolen passport
- remote processing of passport (using RFID)
- could be a smart card/smaller …
- … description of facial/iris recognition system
(b) Explain how the company would assess the market for its new product by using computer-assisted
telephone interviewing.
(b) Any four from:

Computer dials a telephone number from a list selected people/randomly
System displays details of interviewee
Interviewee asked a question from a script
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Response recorded on operator’s screen
Script software decides on next question
Record stored
Responses analysed [4]
(c) Explain how ICT would be used to analyse the results from this research.
(c) Any three points from

Because questions are multiple choice can be directly input into computer system
Requiring no human interpretation
Results stored in a database/spreadsheet
Filters can be applied to select interviewees e.g. by age group/gender
Results presented as report/graph [3]
Q. Describe how the written examination papers are entered electronically into the computer system.

- examination papers are scanned in
- converted electronically to a file on server/database
- stored in a format to allow interface with “marking software”
not OMR systems
CAL
Q. What are the advantages of Pyramid using Computer Aided Learning (CAL) over more traditional
classroom-based training methods?

Can work at own speed Can work when you want
Can re-run sections Can come back any time they want/pause training at any point
Get immediate performance feedback
Immediate assessment made
Can include multimedia elements
No need for teacher/classroom ∴cost saving
Easy to keep up to date/amend
Can be tailored to exact requirements [5]
Q. Explain the disadvantages of using CAL.

Difficult to monitor any malpractice/work rates
Little student/student or student/teacher interaction
Very specific training/doesn’t allow discussions of novel situations
Can be expensive to produce CAL initially
Student can be distracted by … e.g. browsing emails/games [3]
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Page 4 Mark Scheme Syllabus Paper
Candidates should have an understanding of the effects of the use of online services on society including:
Q. Explain how technical developments in ICT are reducing the digital divide among the residents.

ICT components have fallen in price due to improvements in production
Telecomms cost is also falling
New smaller processors have produced smaller/cheaper PCs
Developments in ICT encourages recycling of older equipment that can be used
Advances in devices enables disabled people to use ICT
Online shopping enables housebound people freedom of choice
More/cheaper Computer based training
Computers provided in public places for people to use
Open source software has improved for users
Electric power provided manually- e.g. windup systems
Broadband is being introduced into more areas/attracting more customers
Improved telecom links to remote areas e.g. more satellites
...more widespread network for mobile phones
Enables information to be more accessible
Mobile phone broadband development [5]
Q. Describe how the Local Government Authority could educate residents in order to reduce the digital
divide.
Ans. Any four from:

Provide courses in using computers
Develop CBL courses for self instruction
Provide trainers to go into villages to run courses
Purchase low cost systems for the villages
Prepare written training material for villages
Provide the necessary telecoms hardware for villages
Creating forums for self help [4]
AICT AS & A LEVEL
(b) Describe the concerns that the customers may have in relation to computer fraud.
(b) Any four points from:

ID theft
Money taken from personal accounts
Credit card theft when card account number/PIN intercepted
Delete Worries about on-line banking
In reality computer fraud can be prevented by encryption of transmitted data
The probability of being hacked is very low
Phishing or Pharming is a problem
Too easy to be fooled into providing personal details
Keyloggers can be used
Use of personal information
• To commit criminal acts resulting in blame for individual
• Purchase of items charged to individual [4]
Q. The Local Government Authority is concerned about anti-social behaviour when using ICT.
Give examples of this type of behaviour and describe how they may be prevented.
Ans. Any eight points. Max 5 for bullet points if fail to describe any preventative measures
problem prevention
unauthorised access to a system • Not very common due to security in place such as
AICT AS & A LEVEL
firewall
• And encryption will make reading the data even more
difficult
• Use of non-dictionary passwords
• Regularly changing password
• Use of access rights to limit users
Deliberate sending of malware • Ensure anti-software is kept up to date
Phishing • Do not open unknown emails
• use filtering of emails
Pharming • Advise users of the risk
Cyberbullying • Prevented by education young people
Grooming • Prevented by education young people
Spam • Use of spam filters [8]
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Section 7: Computer networks

Computer networks and how they can be used:
Q. Jollywood have bought all the necessary ICT hardware to create the call centre. Describe the specialist
software which will be needed and explain why it is required.
Ans. Any five points from each item:

Computer telephony integration (CTI) software
used to combine the data and voice input to the system
Third party call control software
allows any computer in network to control any phone in the system
Inbound calling handling software
routing engine to ensure customers routed to correct “expert”
Script system
control on screen information for operators
Predictive dialling
auto dials next number on client list [5]
Q Describe what the residents would use the website for.

Population could apply to go on electoral register
Read local government news
Log into their local tax records
Email local government
Apply for official documents e.g. driving licence or passport
Search for local government decisions on planning/budgets/policies
Read a blog from local government
Look for a job with local government
Pay tax/bills to local government
Apply for grants
Identify members of govt
Look up maps
Access details of registered businesses
Find details of local facilities Opening times of services/schools/tourism/hospitals
Voting online for local elections
Submit a tender for a contract
NOT online shopping except for specific Local Gov items e.g. book to pass the driving test [6]
Q Describe how the Internet has quickly grown since its introduction in the 1990s.
Ans. Any eight points from:
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Expansion of the provision of broadband
Price of computers has fallen dramatically over the last few years
Improved search engines
Faster operating systems/software allow multimedia
Large memory capacities (hard drives, DVD, …) …
… allow large files to be downloaded and stored
Wireless connections to share Internet service
Other devices (e.g. mobiles, digital boxes, portable music players …)
Introduction of online services expanded its use e.g. remote photo storage
Social networking such as chat/personal web space
Greater capacity of Internet backbone
Increase in:
Operating system development – faster data processing
More multimedia content posted on WWW
Web authoring software improved making its easier to create own web site
Online banking
Online shopping
Online auctions
Music downloads
Movie/TV programme downloads
Video conferencing using Internet
VoIP
Businesses using WANs
Q. Apart from security aspects, explain why BrazilParcel uses an intranet for some communications.

information is specific to company that are not in the public domain e.g. sales figures,
social events, company news announcement
personnel directory with telephone numbers, email address
stop staff using the internet for their own purposes
control pages uploaded/downloaded on server
access to templates/common files
book video conferencing suite/meeting rooms [2]
Q. Describe, giving examples, three services that the regional government site could provide users of its
website.
Ans. Three services plus one example from:

Education and learning opportunities
such as places in senior schools/universities
Motoring
such as driving licence/car tax
Home
such as regulations for building/selling
Community
AICT AS & A LEVEL
such as local councillors/crime rates/contacts
Employment
such as local government vacancies
Financial matters
such as rates, tax benefits, pensions
Health information
such as local doctors, hospitals, safe practices
Travel and transport
such as bus times/company details, passports
Environment
such as recycling centres, progress towards targets
Crime
such as location of police stations, crime figures for state, location of courts
Legal rights
such as DPA, consumer rights, citizenship issues
Electoral issues
such as registration of voters/electoral timetables/online voting
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Section 7: Computer networks
LAN :
A local-area network (LAN) is a computer network that spans a relatively small area. Most LANs are
confined to a single building or group of buildings, however, one LAN can be connected to
other LANsover any distance via telephone lines and radio waves.
WLAN
A wireless local area network (WLAN) is a wireless computer network that links two or more devices using a
wireless distribution method (often spread-spectrum or OFDM radio) within a limited area such as a home,
school, computer laboratory, or office building.
Infrared spread spectrum Transmission
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Q. Identify two items of information, other than their password that customers might be asked to provide
when using the systems.
Ans. User name/account number/credit card number/user id

Mother’s maiden name Favourite place Date of birth PIN email address
Q. Give two reasons why customers are asked to type in only three characters from their password.
Ans . Hacker can only get hold of three characters in one go

Hacker might need to know the whole password to get into account
Will probably be different three characters asked for at next log in
Hackers would need to intercept password several times to get into account
Q. Describe, including a benefit, each of the following methods of connecting the new network:
Ans. Any 3 described plus a benefit point from:-

twisted pair
Electrical cable with at least two central wire conductors surrounded by layers of insulation
– Carries data at high speed
– Higher bandwidth than WiFi
– Reduction in data loss due to lower susceptibility to electrical/magnetic interference
– Lower susceptibility to interception
– Fairly cheap to run a link
Fibre optic
Made of high quality glass using light as carrier of data
– Higher speed data transfer than copper or WiFi
– Bandwidth is greater than copper or WiFi
– Longer lengths possible c.f. copper cable
– Can be used for external links between buildings
– More secure as data cannot be read while in transit/glass has to be broken to be
tapped into
AICT AS & A LEVEL
WiFI
Communication is by radio waves
– No need for wires hence less costs installing
– Easy to just fit an access point than wire up a switch
– Most laptops have WiFi and can quickly be given access rights
– Enables mobile connections
Q. Identify and state the purpose of four network devices which could be used in the new network.
Ans. Any four devices identified and one purpose for each given from, e.g.:
Network Interface Card/NIC
– for a system to communicate with network
– interface between network cable and computer
– prepare and send network traffic to/from computer
Hubs
– receives and/or sends packets to all devices connected to it
Switches
– direct flow of data packets to specific/individual devices connected to it
– stores details of MAC address of connected device(s) in order to direct packets
Cabling/wireless link
– carry data
Bridge
– to link sectors of network
– to convert protocols of one network to those of another
Router
– to send data to other networks/between LAN and WAN
– forwards a data packet to its destination
Proxy server
– act as intermediary between client devices and servers
– to cache frequent requests for data/web pages to speed up access for client device
Firewall (hardware) to control data traffic
– to analyse traffic
– to allow or deny access by network traffic
Servers
– File servers to store user data
– Application servers to distribute software to client devices
Q. The bank uses video conferencing suites to arrange meetings between groups of directors
in different countries. The schools use their video conferencing facilities to allow groups of students to
communicate with students at other schools. Compare and contrast these two different uses of video
conferencing.
Ans. Any eight points comparing from:
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Hardware and software comparison
e.g. bandwidth, size of screens, costs, dedicated suites
How they are used compared
e.g. high level directors discussion compared to learning projects in school
Security considerations
communications requirements
Quality of transmission
Maximum of 6 marks for just one system [8]
Q. Describe what is meant by each of the following and explain why the bank uses them in its business.
Ans. Any three from:

Virtual Private Network:
Secure means of tunnelling using public network
Cheaper than creating a private WAN
Used by staff remotely to access system [3]
Voice over Internet Protocol :

Uses Internet/Intranet to carry telephone calls
Sound input is compressed for transmission
Requires dedicated software
Inter-branch/international calls are cheaper than landline calls [3]
Proxy server:
Acts as a buffer between a LAN and a WAN/Internet
Filters requests from users/returned pages
Uses a cache of requested pages hence reducing time to download a page
Only requires 1 network link to the Internet
Enables better management of the usage of the Internet
Forwards user requests to appropriate server
Returns web pages requested if allowed
Stores pages for faster browsing [3]
Q. Describe how the following components are used in Karpartco’s networking system:
Ans: hubs
used to connect computers to server/computer
not very efficient network device
sends data to all linked devices
may amplify received signal
works at MAC level [2]
routers :
gateway device
links LANs to make a WAN
AICT AS & A LEVEL
includes a firewall
directs packets according to their IP address
stores list of connected devices
redirects packets to correct switch/hub
translates protocols (between networks) [2]
switches :
an advancement on a hub
directs the data stream only to the addressed device
prevents congestion on segment of network
uses a list of device addresses
redirects ‘ack’ packet directly to sending computer
works at MAC level
telnet :
is a protocol (internet)
used to gain access to another users computer/remote access to
server
used to transfer/access data
requires a password login id
lacks security
uses TCP/IP protocol (as a lower level) [2]
The need for security and the measures taken to prevent a breach of security:
Q. Mary has decided to install a firewall. Describe four ways in which a firewall increases security.
Ans. Any four from:
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Examines IP address in packet and uses look up table of allowed IP address/forbidden
addresses
Checks allowed domain names in allowed/forbidden table
Filters on keywords/code sequences in data packets
Blocks/allows ports for data transmission
Can be set to stealth mode so that packets are not bounced back
Can monitor traffic flow
Can act as a proxy server to control access
Can act as authenticator for remote access e.g. manages passwords
Q. Explain an authentication technique that could be used by a customer of the bank in making
transactions.

Device to generate one off code/TAN sent by email
Use of chip and PIN
IP address logging
Security question/letters from a security code (NOT password but memorable data)
Biometric device e.g. face recognition using webcam or fingerprint
Digital certificate
Bank to call back/text message customers [3]
Q. Describe the software security which guards against hacking and unwanted communication from
external sources.

firewalls to monitor/stop unauthorised traffic
encryption of sensitive data to fulfil legal requirements
user ids/password/biometric device to establish user access rights
anti-spam software uses filtering to automatically delete junk mail/reduce unnecessary
traffic on network
anti pop up software denies unwanted sites
anti-spyware software stopping cookies/keylogging
anti-adware software to stop unwanted material
Note: mention of internet security suite merits just one mark unless broken down into
components
Candidates should understand the use of networks in electronic conferencing, including the advantages and
disadvantages:
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Q. Give one benefit and one drawback of each of the following methods of communication between the
chief executive and the managers.
Video conferencing
Ans. Six from:

Video conference
Greater perception of personal safety than flying abroad
Can use an encrypted link so information is secure
Participants can see body language/facial expressions
Can be called at short notice
Costs of travel reduced
Costs of venue reduced
Requires special conferencing software with CODEC/compression
Requires specialist hardware e.g. video camera/microphone
Equipment costs are costs are higher than telephone conference
Delays in video/audio signals can be problematic
Time has to be agreed with participants
Phone conferencing
Participants just log in with touch keys
Cheaper running costs than other conferencing
Time has to be agreed with participants
Call has to be set up with server
Cannot see other participants
Never sure whose turn it is to speak
Instant messaging
Easier to use than e.g. video-conferencing
Need to log in
Cheaper provided there is internet access
Not really suitable for large groups of users
Some companies block use
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Can be insecure for e.g. transferring confidential documents
Q. In the Dubai office they have a dedicated video conferencing suite. Describe in detail how the suite
would be set up.

- large screen monitors/(digital) projector
- to enable delegates a realistic view
- high quality/HD webcam / HQ/HD webcam on each station
…. that can move and zoom
- to take images in real time to relay back to other delegates
- several microphones/speakers/headsets
- to enable delegates to be heard clearly
- call up device
- to enable access to communication link
- delegates sit in front of screens with microphones to pick up sound
- cameras provide wide angle view of room
- and can be zoomed onto a speaker
- chairperson controls meeting
- broadband connection/satellite link to suite
- really needs high bandwidth (NOT fast Internet)
Q. Describe in detail the software requirements necessary to allow video conferencing to take place.

- conferencing software/Skype is acceptable
- compresses audio and video elements produced by the Input devices/microphones and webcams
- uses CODEC
- enables sufficient data to be transmitted quickly enough to be in real time
- software feature to record conference
- echo cancellation software
- allows talking in real time to take place
- keeps communication synchronised
- communication software
- to allow system access to internet/satellite link to permit transmission
- software creating UDP packets
- encryption software for signal
Q. Describe the advantages to the company of using video conferencing.

computer files can be updated in real time
can be set up at short notice to overcome crises
regular meetings become viable
initial hardware costs are offset by savings in travel costs
safety aspects – no risk of kidnapping/terrorism
AICT AS & A LEVEL
no travelling time required away from office hence more productive [2]
Q. The use of video conferencing has increased rapidly in the last few years. Describe the recent
developments that have led to this increase.

increase in terrorist attacks has driven the need for video conferencing
faster communication/broadband connections
wider availability of high speed links
companies have tended to become global
faster processors in computers now allow for jerk-free images
multi-screen technology
general improvements in technology has lowered costs/improved image quality [5]
Q. Rock-ICT is considering the use of VOIP and instant messaging for communications. Discuss the
advantages and disadvantages of these methods compared with video conferencing.

- VOIP
- is voice over IP allowing communication over the internet
disadvantages include:
- need a special phone or headset in many cases
- free calls can only be made if recipient uses same system
advantages include:
- international/long distance calls are at local rate or even free
- less hardware needed than with video conferencing reducing costs
- cannot see body language/facial expression
- instant messaging allows interaction between users across internet
disadvantages include:
- video is poor unlike VOIP (could be awarded in VOIP but only once)
- interaction can be slow
- poor synchronisation
advantages include:
- can interact with various IP addresses
- video can be used unlike VOIP
- less expensive hardware needed than with video conferencing
- only require low speed internet connection (unlike VC)
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Section 8: Software selection
Candidates should be able to select the software which is most appropriate for any given task, using a
critical evaluation of the task and of the scenario provided with the task.
Candidates are given a range of software packages; they should then be able to:
Section 9: Communication
Candidates should be able to use email and the internet to gather and communicate information; they
should be able to critically evaluate the material to identify the reliability of the sources and whether the
material is fit for purpose.
AICT AS & A LEVEL
WEB PAGE WEBSITE ONLINE SECURITY
Q. Some customers are worried that they will have to type in their bank account details. Discuss why you
think this will be a problem or not.
Ans. Bank details may be intercepted by hackers/description of spyware/key logging

Hackers would need to know username and password
Most systems are extremely difficult to hack into contrary to popular belief
Data is encrypted when being transmitted
Impossible to crack the encryption without a key
Customer perception could be a problem as it could lead to a reduction in the number of customers
Q. Describe five steps that a new customer would have to follow in order to register online with this
system.
Ans. Five from:

Access the website Click on My Account/Register here
Enter email address Confirm email address by entering it again
Enter address/postcode Enter name
Enter in contact details Enter your choice of username
Enter your choice of password Enter your answer to chosen security question
Confirm password by entering it again
Activation process completed by receiving email containing link to click on/on screen
recognition (i.e. ‘type in this selection of characters’) [5]
Q. Describe three security threats that the bank and the customer must guard against because of the use
of on-line banking.
Ans. Three detailed descriptions from:

Phishing – e-mail appear to be from customer's bank
ask for customer’s details – password, card/account number, other security details
e-mail makes up plausible reason
includes a website address for customer to go to which looks just like the actual bank’s
website but is a fake website
Pharming – fraudster redirects genuine website’s traffic to own website
customer is now sending personal details to fraudster’s website
Spyware is downloaded/software used to gather user's personal details
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Software detects key presses of user logging on to bank site
Hacking – to access/intercept personal information
to use personal information against the individual/to commit fraud
hacking to spread viruses [6]
Q. The introduction of the website will affect the work of the technical staff. Describe two opportunities
this may present.
Ans. Two from:

More job opportunities Can work from home Could be retrained
Q. Explain the security issues involved with such a website.
Ans. The customer’s personal data/payment details can be intercepted by a hacker.

Personal data/payment details could be used by the hacker to defraud the shop.
Personal data/payment details could be used by the hacker to defraud the customer.
Personal data/payment details could be used to log on to the shop’s computer
system and order a large number of products....
........products can be dispatched to another address other than the credit
owner’s.
The hacker can sell on the goods.
Credit card details can be used to make purchases at a number of other shops.
Q. Describe, giving the uses of each, six different types of software which Ali could use to create the
website.
Ans. Web authoring package to create web site

Word-processing package for typing text /tables etc.
DTP for creating pages for website
Spreadsheet to create statistical tables/graphs for inclusion in the website
Database to create files of data for inclusion in the website
Communications software to connect to Internet
Web browser to see how the web site appears to users
Software for editing scanned/downloaded images
Q. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages to a company of advertising on somebody else’s website
rather than creating their own website.
Ans. It is cheaper than paying/employing a programmer/designer to create/maintain it.

A Pop-up instantly grabs the attention of the customer.
Pop ups may create unhappy customers who may avoid that company in future/
will have poor impression of the company/will tend to ignore them.
Customers will use pop-up blocking (software) which doesn’t allow them to appear.
Pop-unders are small windows placed underneath the web page being accessed.
Don’t appear to users until they close the page they are working on.
Are not removed by pop-up blocking.
The customer regards pop-unders as less of an inconvenience than pop-ups.
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Pop-ups and pop-unders can both be linked to the organisation’s own website.
Can make their own website better suited to their needs.
Own website has shorter delay in updating/improving advertising.
Company doesn’t have as much control over the host’s website as it would over its own.
May be so many other companies’ advertising on host website the company’s
may not be seen/not as much advertising can be used/limited space available.
More people may see it if it’s on someone else’s website.
One mark is available for reasoned conclusion.
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Section 10: Document and Presentation Production

Candidates should be able to use word processing, desktop publishing and presentation authoring facilities to
prepare documents/slides for an audience.
AICT AS & A LEVEL
AICT AS & A LEVEL
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Section 11: Data Handling 1 – Databases and Charts

Candidates should be able to use database and charting facilities to store, search and manipulate data, solve
problems and to represent data graphically. Using database facilities, candidates should be able to:
AICT AS & A LEVEL
AICT AS & A LEVEL
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Section 12: Integration 1

Candidates should be able to integrate data from different sources into a single document/presentation or
report. Using a range of software packages, candidates should be able to:
Section 13: Output Data

Candidates should be able to produce output in a specified format. Using a range of software packages
candidates should be able to:
Section 14: Data Handling 2 – Spreadsheets
AICT AS & A LEVEL
AICT AS & A LEVEL
AICT AS & A LEVEL
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Section 15: Integration 2 – Mail Merge

Q. Describe how mail merging could be used to enable the company to send personalised
communications to its customers.

to target appropriate customers
create standard document using fields from customer database using customer data
base as the data source
query the data base for appropriate customers
use of mail merge wizards
when merged each document is personal to that customer
also use mail merge facilities to address envelopes/create labels [4]
Candidates should be able to use a word processor with mail merge facilities and a data handling package in
order to create mail merged documents. Using word processing, database and spreadsheet facilities, candidates
should be able to:
AICT AS & A LEVEL
AICT AS & A LEVEL
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Section 16: Integration 3 – Automation

Candidates should be able to use a variety of packages, techniques and functions to select the appropriate
document(s) and data source(s), and produce automated document(s) as required.
Suitable packages could include one or more of these features:
• Object oriented programming languages

• Macros
• Hyperlinks
The exact techniques, functions and methods used will depend on the application software chosen and the
methods employed by the candidate to achieve the required result. Selecting the most appropriate method is part
of the assessment. Candidates should be able to:
AICT AS & A LEVEL
Section 17: Output Data
CHECK DIGIT
Q. Describe how a check digit would be used to test the validity of the bar code number of the
examination paper.
Ans. Two from:

a calculation is performed on a long series of digits to produce another digit
This digit is then added to the end of the string.
The computer re-calculates the digit when data is entered
To check whether it gives the same result.
Q. Having completed the analysis phase, Joseph needs to design the file structure. Give a reason why
each of the following aspects of file structure needs to be designed.
Field name Field type Field length Validation rules Key field
Ans. One for each reason:

Field name
So that the contents of the field are easily identifiable/so that no two fields have the same name
Field type
AICT AS & A LEVEL
So that validation can be more easily performed/text or Boolean can be chosen when
appropriate to save storage space
Field length
So that record lengths are not too long/when chosen appropriately saves storage space
Validation rules
So that the number of errors in input data is reduced
Key field
To make it easier to sort data/to uniquely identify each record in a database/to make it easier
to search databases
MEG
When a person applies to be a customer of MEG, an application form has to be completed on paper so
that their details can be entered on to the computer system. Using features of the form as examples,
explain the benefits of a well designed application form.
Ans. Four from:

Fewer errors in completing/easier to complete the form because there are individual character
boxes
Fewer errors in completing/easier to complete the form because there could be Boolean tick
boxes
Fewer errors in completing the form/easier to complete because closed questions/restricted
number of answers
Fewer errors in reading the form as OMR could be used
Fewer errors in completing the form/easier to complete because there are instructions on how to
fill in the form
Easier for the secretary to read completed forms because there are individual character boxes
Fewer errors when secretary enters data into computer as it is easier to read completed forms
Less likely to get lost as there will be clear instructions where to send the form

AICT Syllabus Question St. Francis CIE

Uploaded by

Document Information

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

AICT Syllabus Question St. Francis CIE

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

AICT AS & A LEVEL

Ans. Cameras – to inspect work

Ans. 6 points from:-

Ans. Any six points discussing the risks from:

(ii) USB port

(ii) Any two points from:

a handheld light-emitting device used for reading barcodes.

Ans. Any three points from:

Ans. Any four points from:

Section 2: How organisations use

From Book Air Conditioning system Central Heating System Refrigeration

Q. Describe how microprocessor control is used in a central heating system.

Ans. Five from:

1 (a) A Valve (1)

Ans. Five from:

Ans. Assemble equipment/load software/access the internet/connect to the internet

Ans. Webcam to input video

Ans. Three from:

Ans. Five from:

(b) Explain the advantages of these devices to John.

Ans. Two from:

Ans. Flyer doesn’t take very long to produce.

Buzzers Automatic cookers, microwave ovens

Ans. Any four points from:

Q. Using the scenario, describe four features of Computer Aided Learning.

Ans. Four from:

Computer Plate Making CTP

Ans. Three from:

Ans. Six from:

Batch processing Pay roll

Ans. A relational database consists of a number of separate tables

Data is not repeated so less storage capacity needed

Q. Describe what is meant by an ordered sequential file.

Q. Describe five steps in the weekly updating of the master file.

Ans. Five from:

Ans. Five from:

Hierarchical database management

Example of Hierarchical Data model

Ans. The transaction file is sorted

Ans. Master file

Q. Describe the outputs of the payroll system.

Ans. Four from:

Ans. Four from:

Ans Three from:

Ans. Phone operators will be paid less

Ans. The operator might not understand UK dialects

Ans. Six from:

Ans. Five from:

Ans. Four from: Description of IVR

COMPUTER TELEPHONY INTEGRATION CTI

Ans. Three from:

Ans Participants agree time and date of the conference

Ans. Any four points from:

Section 3: Impact of ICT on society – Part 1

Ans. Files will be held in an indexed sequential manner

Ans. Modem/Router to connect to the system/Internet Mouse to select options/services

Q. Describe the features of a well designed online shopping website.

Ans. An easy-to-remember domain name.

Ans. Call centres employees may copy data to pass on to criminals…

Ans. Three from:

Q. Describe three benefits to the examination board of online marking.

Ans. Three from:

3 (a) Describe four ways that the intranet would be used.

3 (a) Any four points from: