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CHAPTER ONE

1.1 Introduction
The students industrial work experience scheme (SIWES),also known as industrial
training is a compulsory skill Training program designed to expose and prepare
students of Nigerian Universities, Polytechnics, Colleges of education, Colleges of
technology and Colleges of Agriculture, for the industry work situation they are
likely to meet at the graduation. The scheme also afford students the opportunity of
familiarizing and Exposing Themselves to the needed experience in handling
equipment and machinery that are usually not available in their institutions.
Before the establishment of the screen, there was a growing concern among
industrialists, that graduates of institutions of higher learning lacked adequate
practical background studies preparatory for employment in industries. Thus
employers were of the opinion that the theoretical education in higher institutions
was not responsive to the needs of the employers of labor.
SIWES is a tripartite program involving the students, their institutions and
industry. The scheme strives to encourage employer’s involvement in the
educational process of preparing students for a work environment outside the
various institutions. The program form part of the approved minimum academic
standard in various degree disciplines for all Nigerian universities.
1.2 Company Profile
The founder, Dr. Godswill Agbagwa – priest and ethicist – grew up in Nigeria. His
experience with poverty as a teenager led him to dedicate his priestly ministry to
integral social and human development. In 2010, while studying abroad as a
graduate student, he decided to establish CSAAE as a platform to advance integral
social and human development in Africa and across the world. The five core values
at the foundation of his work at CSAAE include: Punctuality, Integrity, Creativity,
Accountability and Solidarity (PICAS)
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CSAAE is a registered nonprofit in Nigeria; a 501(c3) nonprofit in the United
Staes; an organisation in special consultative status with the United Nations’
ECOSOC and former representative of African civil societies at the World Bank
and IMF civil societies working group. The Centre carries out its operations from
its head office in Owerri, Nigeria, with technical support from its U.S. office in
Maryland.
CSAAE envisions a better Africa where all can find support and encouragement to
work hard, live with dignity and feel proud to belong. The Centre pursues this
vision through three programs.
 A socioeconomic program that enables:
 Entrepreneurship
 Quality primary health care
 Youth empowerment
 Quality primary education
 Women empowerment
 Sustainable environment
 An advocacy program that advocates for:
 Human rights
 Good governance
 Rule of law
 Anticorruption
 An ethics program that promotes:
 Business ethics
 Professional Ethics
 Ethical Leadership

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1.3 About ICT
Information and Communications Technology (ICT) refers to all equipment and
applications that involve communications such as computers, cell phones,
televisions, radio and satellite systems as well as the various services and
applications associated with them such as video conferencing and distant learning.
FUTO Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Centre was established
in 1996 during the tenure of Engr. Prof. C.O.G. Obah, the third substantive Vice-
Chancellor of the University. ICT activities started then with the establishment
of Nigerian Universities Network (NUNET) Steering Committee to provide e-mail
services to the University Community from an office in the Vice Chancellor’s
lodge.
The e-mail service was provided by connecting to the National Universities
Commission’s dial-up which connects to the International Centre for Theoretical
Physics (ICTP) in Italy. Due to the delay associated with this type of
Communications, an alternative and full Internet access that does not depend on a
telephone line was implemented through Link Service Ltd. With such improved
access the University Community provided URL for search and download. Further
relief was provided with the donation of Internet Centre to Electrical and
Electronic Engineering in 2004 by a Philanthropist, which was extended to the
NUNET office in the University Permanent Site. The need to harmonize and
coordinate the various ICT Units in the University brought about the creation of
the Directorate of ICT in January 2005 by the then Vice-Chancellor Prof. Jude E.
Njoku. Since then, the subsequent Vice-Chancellor has impacted positively in the
development of ICT facilities in the University including completing all ongoing
projects, the establishment of a dynamic website and portals, rolling out of ICT
policy for the University etc.

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In his address to the General Assembly of the University on the assumption of
office in June 2016, the 7 th Substantive Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Francis C. Eze
reaffirmed his desire to sustain efforts at full computerization of all university’s
administrative and academic processes as encapsulated in his mantra “Driving the
Culture of Excellence”. His vision is to leverage on ICT to enhance teaching,
learning and research so that FUTO will be repositioned into a World Class
University of Excellent.

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CHAPTER TWO
2.1 Data Processing

Data processing is simply the conversion of raw data to meaningful


information through a process. Data is manipulated to produce results that lead to a
resolution of a problem or improvement of an existing situation. Similar to a
production process, it follows a cycle where inputs (raw data) are fed to a process
(computer systems, software, etc.) to produce output (information and insights).
Generally, organizations employ computer systems to carry out a series of
operations on the data to present, interpret, or obtain information. The process
includes activities like data entry, summary, calculation, storage, etc. A useful and
informative output is presented in various appropriate forms such as diagrams,
reports, graphics, etc.
Data processing is important in business and scientific operations. Business
data is repeatedly processed, and usually needs large volumes of output. Scientific
data requires numerous computations and usually needs fast-generating outputs.

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It is a conversion of “processing” is carried out using predefined sequence of
operations either manually or automatically. Processed data can be obtained in
different forms like audio, vector file, image , graph , table , chart.
2.2 How Data is processed
This data collected need to be stored, sorted, processed, analyzed and
presented. The process can be divided into 6 simple primary stage which are:
• Data Collection - Process of gathering and measuring information on
variables of interest.

• Storage of Data - is a technology consisting of computer components and


recording media that are used to retain digital data.

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• Sorting of Data – It process of arranging data into meaningful order so that
you analyze it more effectively.

• Processing of Data- the collection and manipulation of items of data to


produce meaningful information.

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• Data Analysis - Is the process of systematically applying statistical or
logical techniques to describe and illustrate, condense and recap and
evaluate data.

• Data presentation and Conclusions – It refers to the organization of data


into tables, graphs, or charts, so that logical and statistical conclusions can
be derived from the collected measurements.

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2.3 The Data Processing Cycle
The Data Processing Cycle is a series of steps carried out to extract information
from raw data. Although each step must be taken in order, the order is cyclic. The
output and storage stage can lead to the repeat of the data collection stage, resulting
in another cycle of data processing. The cycle provides a view on how the data
travels and transforms from collection to interpretation, and ultimately, used in
effective business decisions.

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(Diagram of Data Processing Cycle)

The Stages of the Data Processing Cycle

1) Collection - is the first stage of the cycle, and is very crucial, since the
quality of data collected will impact heavily on the output. The collection
process needs to ensure that the data gathered are both defined and accurate,
so that subsequent decisions based on the findings are valid. This stage
provides both the baseline from which to measure, and a target on what to
improve. Some types of data collection include census (data collection about
everything in a group or statistical population), sample survey (collection
method that includes only part of the total population), and administrative
by-product (data collection is a byproduct of an organization’s day-to-day
operations).
2) Preparation - is the manipulation of data into a form suitable for further
analysis and processing. Raw data cannot be processed and must be checked for
accuracy. Preparation is about constructing a dataset from one or more data sources

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to be used for further exploration and processing. Analyzing data that has not been
carefully screened for problems can produce highly misleading results that are
heavily dependent on the quality of data prepared.

3) Input is the task where verified data is coded or converted into machine
readable form so that it can be processed through a computer. Data entry is done
through the use of a keyboard, digitizer, scanner, or data entry from an existing
source. This time-consuming process requires speed and accuracy. Most data need
to follow a formal and strict syntax since a great deal of processing power is
required to breakdown the complex data at this stage. Due to the costs, many
businesses are resorting to outsource this stage.
4) Processing is when the data is subjected to various means and methods of
manipulation, the point where a computer program is being executed, and it
contains the program code and its current activity. The process may be made up of
multiple threads of execution that simultaneously execute instructions, depending
on the operating system. While a computer program is a passive collection of
instructions, a process is the actual execution of those instructions. Many software
programs are available for processing large volumes of data within very short
periods.
5) Output and interpretation is the stage where processed information is now
transmitted to the user. Output is presented to users in various report formats like
printed report, audio, video, or on monitor. Output need to be interpreted so that it
can provide meaningful information that will guide future decisions of the
company.
6) Storage is the last stage in the data processing cycle, where data, instruction and
information are held for future use. The importance of this cycle is that it allows
quick access and retrieval of the processed information, allowing it to be passed on
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to the next stage directly, when needed. Every computer uses storage to hold
system and application software.

Data processing cycle as the term suggests a sequence of steps or operations for
processing data, i.e., processing raw data to the usable form. The processing of
data can be done by number of data processing methods.
2.4 Stages of data processing:
Data Input - The raw data after collection needs to be fed in the cycle for
processing. This is considered the first step and called input. The term input refers
to activities required to record data and to make it available for processing. Include
the steps necessary to check, verify and validate data contents.
Data Processing - Once the input is provided the raw data is processed by a
suitable or selected processing method. This is the most important step as it

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provides the processed data in the form of output which will be use further.The
term processing denotes the actual data manipulation. Techniques such us
classifying, sorting, calculating, summarizing, comparing ,etc. Converts data into
information.
Output - This is the outcome and the raw data provided in the first stage is now
“processed” and the data is useful and provides information and no longer called
data It is a communication function.Sometimes output also includes decoding
activity.Converts the electronically generated information in to human-readable
form.
Storage- It involves the filling of data and information for future use.
2.5 The Basic Data Processing Cycle

The Basic Data Processing Cycle - Consist of 3 basic steps which are the input ,
processing and the output.
Input – The initial data or input data are prepare in some convenient form for
processing.
Example : computer input data is recorded into input medium such as internal
memory , cards , disks, flash and etc.

Processing – Input data are changed , usually combined with other information to
produce data in a more useful for,
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 Example : Pay checks may be calculated from the time cards or
a summary of sales for the month may be calculated form the
sales orders.

Output – Results from the preceding processing step are collected. The output data
/ results form depends upon the used of the data.

 Example: Pay checks for employee , printed summary of


monthly sales for management or data to be stored for further
processing.

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2.6 The Expanded Processing Cycle

The Expanded Data Processing Cycle - More steps; Origination, Distribution,


and Storage.
Origination - Refers to the processes of collecting the original data into
source documents.
 Example : Graded test papers
Distribution - Refers to distribution of the output. Recordings of the output data
are often called report documents.
 Example: Class grade sheets
Storage - Crucial step in many data processing procedures. The processed results
are stored for use as input data in the future. A unified set of data storage is called a
file which consists of records. A collection of files forms a database.

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2.7 Categories of Data Processing
Data processing can be understood as the conversion of raw data to meaningful
information through a process and the conversion is called ” data processing“.
There are number of methods and techniques which can be adopted for processing
of data depending upon the requirements, time availability, software and hardware
capability of the technology being used for data processing. There are number of
types of data processing methods.
Types of data processing can be understood on basis of methods and
technology adopted. Generally mechanical and electronic data processing is used
and at times manual data processing is used. There are three (3) Categories of Data
Processing:
Manual data processing - In this method data is processed manually without use
of machine or electronic device. This method is slow and less reliable, chances of
error are high and this method is very old when technical innovations were few and
rare. This also makes processing expensive and requires large manpower
depending on the data required to be processed.
 Example: includes selling of commodity on shop.

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Mechanical data processing – Data processing is done by use of mechanical
device or very simple electronic devices like calculator and type writers. The
advantage of this method is more reliability and saving of time as compared to
manual data processing but still the output is limited. Any device which facilitates
data processing can be considered under this category.

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Electronic data processing – This is the fastest and best available method with
highest reliability and accuracy. Technology used is latest as this method uses
computers. Manpower required is minimal. Processing can be done through
various programs and predefined set of rules. Processing of large amount of data
with high accuracy is almost impossible which makes it best among the available
types of data processing.

2.8 Areas of Data Processing


It is a paper works and involves the collecting, processing and distributing of facts
and figures to achieve a desired result.Data processing includes not only numerical
calculations but also operations such as the classification of data and the
transmission of data from one place to another.Data processing system refers to the
equipment or devices and procedures by which the result is achieved. There are
two types of Area Data Processing are:

Business Data processing (BDP) . Business data processing is characterized by


the need to establish, retain, and process files of data for producing useful
information. Generally, it involves a large volume of input data, limited
arithmetical operations, and a relatively large volume of output. For example, a
large retail store must maintain a record for each customer who purchases on

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account, update the balance owned on each account, and a periodically present a
bill to the customer for merchandise purchased. This type of record keeping
requires reading a customer’s account number, name, address, and previous
balance. The bill involves a few basic calculations and the result are printed and
mailed to the customer for collection. Tens of thousands of similar bills are
commonly handled in the same way.

(Diagram of Business Data Processing)

Scientific Data Processing (SDP) . In science, data processing involves a


limited volume of input and many logical or arithmetic calculations. Unlike
business problems, most of the scientific problems are non-repetitive, requiring a
“one-time” solution. For example, in cancer research, data on cancer patients
(collected over a period of time) are analyzed by a computer to produce a
possible cure. Although a final cure is unavailable, computer analysis of the
hundreds of man-years of computations. It has also brought us a step closer to
the final answer to the cancer horror. Although scientific data may differ from
business data, the processing pattern is quite similar.

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(Diagram of Scientific Data Processing)

2.9 Methods and Operation of Data Processing


Data processing refers to methods that take the raw data and turn it into usable
information. Paper and pencil can work, but in the 21st century, data analysis
usually relies on computers. To process data by computer, it has to be collected,
checked for accuracy and entered into the computer first.
2.10 Methods of Data Processing
Batch Processing - is a method where the information to be organized is sorted
into groups to allow for efficient and sequential processing. Online Processing is a
method that utilizes Internet connections and equipment directly attached to a
computer. It is used mainly for information recording and research. Real-Time
Processing is a technique that can respond almost immediately to various signals to
acquire and process information. Distributed Processing is commonly utilized by
remote workstations connected to one big central workstation or server. ATMs are
good examples of this data processing method.

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Example of Batch Processing: Cheque Clearing, Generation of Bills ,
Credit Card Transaction.

Online Processing - This is a method that utilizes Internet connections and


equipment directly attached to a computer. This allows for the data stored in one
place and being used at an altogether different place. Cloud computing can be
considered as an example which uses this type of processing. It is used mainly for
information recording and research.
Example of Online Processing: Flight Bookings , Cinema Bookings , Theatre
Bookings and ATM withdrawals.

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Real-Time Processing - This technique can respond almost immediately to
various signals to acquire and process information. These involve high
maintenance and upfront cost attributed to very advanced technology and
computing power. Time saved is maximum in this case as the output is seen in real
time. For example in banking transactions.
Example of Real-Time Processing: Reservations Systems , Point of Sales
Terminals (POS)

Distributed Processing - This method is commonly utilized by remote


workstations connected to one big central workstation or server. ATMs are good
examples of this data processing method. All the end machines run on a fixed

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software located at a particular place and make use of exactly same information
and sets of instruction.

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CHAPTER THREE
SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
3.1 Summary and Conclusions
The whole experience gained during the attachment at ICT, FUTO was very
enlightening. The practical skills we were exposed to and the opportunity to relate
with typical situations relating to engineering industry. These experiences have
successfully broadened my understanding and interest in block chain technology.
The training was worthwhile, has it accorded me the privilege of gaining insight
into job preparation as well as what it meant to carry out proper inspection and also
working condition under stress which in a way prepares undergraduates for the
outside world after school.
The program gave me the privilege to relate with senior professionals and other
students from different institutions and this experience made me appreciate the
nature, benefits, and intricacies of my chosen field of study both in the classroom
and in the society at large while also gives me the opportunity to put into practice
the theoretical knowledge acquired throughout my stay in school. The program has
given me the rare privilege of gaining practical knowledge and widened my
knowledge about the application of physics in the world.
3.2 Problem Faced During SIWES Program
Some the problems experienced during the SIWES program. These are as stated
below.
1. Limited orientation before starting the program.
3.3 Recommendations
Based on the experience and knowledge acquired at the course of the SIWES
training, I hereby give the following recommendation based on my observations.
1. Proper orientation should be given to the students by the university before they
go on SIWES at least before mid-semester break of first semester.
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2. The placement letter should be given to students early enough so as to avoid
attachment in irrelevant organization.
3. I recommend that substantial percent of the National budget should go into the
development, improvement and sustenance of the power sector.
4. Student should avoid prioritizing money over work and experience and should
develop a good attitude, good work ethics and be a good ambassador of the
university they are representing.
5. Institution and ITF should ensure that students are attached at relevant
establishment for effective training, experience and exposure related to their course
of study in the university.

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References
https://www.mbaknol.com/management-information-systems/areas-of-data-
processing/
https://planningtank.com/computer-applications/data-processing-data-processing-
methods
https://www.techwalla.com/articles/methods-of-data-processing
https://www.slideshare.net/laniepalad/lecture-2-27963638
https://www.slideshare.net/neerazz/data-processing-by-neeraj-bhandari-
surkhetnepal?next_slideshow=1
http://www.enterprisefeatures.com/6-important-stages-in-the-data-processing-
cycle/
http://www.unitanzania.com/2014/12/data-processing-cycle-systems-and-
types.html

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