PAPER NO. 3 FUNDAMENTAL ICT SKILLS
UNIT DESCRIPTION
This unit covers the competencies required to demonstrate foundational concepts of ICT, operate computer hardware, use appropriate computer software, connect to computer networks and secure data in computer devices.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
• Demonstrate foundational concepts of computers
• Operate computer hardware
• Use appropriate computer software
• Connect to computer networks
• Secure data in computer devices
CONTENT:
1. Demonstrate foundational concepts of computers
1.1 Definition of key terms
1.2 Computer
1.3 Computing
1.4 Computer system
1.5 Hardware
1.6 Software
1.7 Program
1.8 Information communication technology
1.9 Computer generations
1.9.1 First generation
1.9.2 Second generation
1.9.3 Third generation
1.9.4 Fourth generation
1.9.5 Fifth generation
1.10 Classification of computers
1.10.1 Size
1.10.2 Type
1.10.3 Purpose
2. Operate computer hardware
2.1 Types of computer hardware
2.1.1 Input
2.1.2 Output
2.1.3 Storage
2.1.4 Process
2.2 Operating computer hardware
2.2.1 Keyboard
2.2.2 Mouse
2.2.3 Printer
3. Use appropriate computer software
3.1 Classification of computer software
3.1.1 System software
3.1.2 Application software
3.1.3 Utility program
3.1.4 Computer programming language
3.2 Functions of operating software
3.3 Types of operating software
3.3.1 Graphical user interface
3.3.2 Command line
3.4 Managing files using operating system
3.4.1 Creating folders and subfolders
3.4.2 Create a file
3.4.3 Delete file
3.4.4 Copy and cut files
3.4.5 Edit file
3.4.6 Share file
3.4.7 Print file
3.5 Computer application software
3.5.1 Word processing
3.5.1.1 Features of word processor
3.5.1.2 Formatting and editing text
3.5.1.3 Creating and formatting tables
3.5.2 Spreadsheet
3.5.2.1 Features of a spreadsheet program
3.5.2.2 Formatting and editing spreadsheet
3.5.2.3 Formulas and functions; sum, min, max, date and average
3.5.2.4 Insert Charts and graphs
3.5.3 Presentation software
3.5.3.1 Features of a presentation program
3.5.3.2 Typing and formatting text in slide
3.5.3.3 Slide show
3.5.3.4 Printing a hand-outs
3.5.4 Computerised accounting software
3.5.4.1 Capturing data
3.5.4.2 Features of accounting software
4. Connect to computer networks
4.1 Advantages and disadvantages of computer network
4.2 Types of computer network
4.2.1 LAN
4.2.2 PAN
4.2.3 MAN
4.2.4 WAN
4.3 Network devices
4.3.1 Hub
4.3.2 Switch
4.3.3 Router
4.3.4 CAT 6 cable
4.4 Creating user accounts
4.5 Network resources
4.5.1 Folders
4.5.2 Files
4.5.3 Printers
5. Secure data in computer devices
5.1 Data threats and controls
5.1.1 Distributed denial of service (DDoS)
5.1.2 Man in the Middle (MitM)
5.1.3 Social engineering
5.1.4 Malware and spyware
5.1.5 Password attacks
5.1.6 Advanced persistent threats (APT)
5.2 Computer control measures
5.2.1 Education
5.2.2 Legal responses
5.2.3 Patches
5.2.4 Backups
5.2.5 Access controls
5.2.6 Encryption
5.2.7 Intrusion detection and computer forensics
5.2.8 Honeypots
5.2.9 Intrusion prevention systems
5.2.10 Backtracing
5.2.11 Counterattacking
5.3 Data backup and restoration procedures
Suggested Methods of Delivery
• Presentations and practical demonstrations by trainer;
• Guided learner activities and research to develop underpinning knowledge;
• Supervised activities and projects in a computer laboratory;
The delivery may also be supplemented and enhanced by the following, if the opportunity allows:
• Visiting lecturer/expert from the ICT sector;
• Industrial visits.
Recommended Resources Tools
1. CAT 6 cables
2. Switch
3. Hub
4. Router
5. Firewalls
6. Antivirus
Equipment
● Computer
● Printer
Materials and supplies
• Digital instructional material including DVDs and CDs