Computer+and+Communication+Systems

=Computer and Communication Systems= toc

How Computers Work
From the Curriculum Statement: · The people who develop, maintain, and use computer and communication systems need to understand the relationship between hardware, software, and the flow of data; in particular, they should: understand how a computer system processes and stores data; understand how the system communicates with the user; understand how data is transferred across networks; appreciate the limitations of the computer system and network in software development; be able to troubleshoot errors and problems that can occur. · The use of accurate computer terminology helps the developer of an information system to communicate requirements. · Data is processed through a computer and communication system. · A computer is an electronic machine that operates under the control of instructions located in its own memory. It can accept data, manipulate the data according to specified rules, and produce, communicate, and store the results for further reference. · During a process, such as adding two numbers, parts of a computer perform specific functions with data. The parts include the central processing unit (CPU), the arithmetic and logic unit (ALU), random-access memory (RAM), and registers. · Data can be processed through an embedded processor (i.e. chip-based technology). Click on the heading above to access further resources and learning activities.

//How can a network be described? (Term 1 Week 6)//
From the Curriculum Statement: · A network is a collection of computers and other equipment that use communications channels to share data, information, hardware, and software. · A network can be described as: a local area network (LAN), either peer-to-peer or client–server; or a wide area network (WAN). · A network consists of nodes and transmission media. All nodes have a network address. · A server performs specific tasks and may be dedicated to a sole task. Examples of dedicated servers include file, application, communication, game, email, print, web, database, stand-alone, and proxy servers. Click on the heading above to access further resources and learning activities.

//How can a network be managed? (Term 1 Week 7)//
From the Curriculum Statement: · A network operating system controls and coordinates the activities on a network. · Network administration includes consideration of management and security of programs, files, devices, and users (workgroups). · Security of a network involves the use of a firewall system, including a proxy server. · External access can be achieved by remote desktop control. · Services can be monitored and filtered to provide information about the use of network resources. Click on the heading above to access further resources and learning activities.

How can a user access the services of the Internet? (Term 1 Week 8)
From the Curriculum Statement: · The Internet provides different services, including email, ftp, forums, messenger, newsgroups, and the World Wide Web. · To connect to the Internet, a user needs hardware, software, and an account with an Internet service provider (ISP). Internet or web technologies can be applied to internal networks to form an intranet, an extranet, or a virtual private network (VPN). Click on the heading above to access further resources and learning activities.

How is data transferred over a network?(Term 1 Week 9)
From the Curriculum Statement: · Data is transmitted in packets over networks. · A protocol is a communication standard that enables data to be transferred. · The protocol determines factors such as: the construction of the packet; the type of error checking to be used; the data compression method, if any; how the sending device will indicate that it has finished sending a message; how the receiving device will indicate that it has received a message. · Common protocols include SPX/IPX, NetBeui, ftp, smtp, pop3, and TCP/IP. · The OSI (open systems interconnection) model describes how data from a software application in one computer moves through a network medium to a software application in another computer. · A channel is a path through which data passes between two devices (including web-enabled). Transmission can be physical or wireless. · Bandwidth is the amount of data that can be transmitted in a fixed amount of time. · File format, compression techniques, and encryption can be used to send and/or protect data more efficiently. Click on the heading above to access further resources and learning activities.

//What is the impact of network technology on society? (Term 1 Week 10)·//
From the Curriculum Statement: Network technology has changed the way individuals, organisations, and communities communicate and conduct business. Examples include Internet banking, shopping, stock trading, virtual learning, remote access, and community meetings. · New technologies and advances in communication networks have implications for conducting business and delivering education through accessing alternative media now and in the future. Examples include telephony (voice-over-IP [VoIP]), videoconference, groupware, Global Positioning Systems (GPSs), and collaborative and social software.

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//What are the issues for managing and using networks? (Term 1 Week 11)//
From the Curriculum Statement: · Individuals, organisations, and communities should consider and implement security, protection, and privacy measures and consider social and cultural protocols in the communication and storage of data. · Individuals, organisations, and communities should use network technology ethically. Issues include spam, flaming, phishing, downloading and uploading, and a range of issues related to forums, chat rooms, and messenger. Click on the heading above to access further resources and learning activities.