The theory component of the Cambridge IGCSE ICT & DBE CAPS CAT syllabi has earned itself a bad rep. The theory really needn’t be boring “book learning”: almost without exception, you should be able to see examples of and experience the technology that you are learning about. ICT is a living subject — you are surrounded by examples of computer technology all the time. Technology changes rapidly and you can keep up to date by simply being curious.
1. A Practical Approach
No textbook picture or YouTube video can beat getting your hands on the hardware and software you need to learn about. With this in mind, I have built up an “ICT Museum” that includes examples of old and new hardware components.
Learning about barcode scanners? Lay your hands on one and create a system to manage the school’s textbooks.
Learning about HDDs? Open up a failed (broken) HDD to view the actual metal platters and actuator arm inside the device.
Learning about open-source software? Load an old PC with Ubuntu Desktop and OpenOffice and explore the differences between that set-up and the Microsoft operating system and office suite you are used to using.
Learning about URL shortening? Register with Bit.ly (for free) and shorten the URLs for your PAT research questions.
Learning about podcasts? Head on over to Google Podcasts and listen to a few!
Learning about GPS, satellites, online computing, smartphones, cellphone networks and a host of other topics, take yourself on a Strava trip!
Use Excel’s EXACT() function as an example of double-data entry verification. Use Data Validation in Excel and Create a validation rule in Access as practical examples of validation.
2. Putting the Pieces in Place
Almost all of your theory should fit into one of the two diagrams below, and if you are answering a question, start by detailing where it fits into the diagrams.
2.1 The “What is it?” categorisation diagram
2.2 The Information Processing Cycle
This diagram represents the Information Processing Cycle. All data must be input, processed and then output and/or stored.
You should be able to discuss all hardware by describing its place in the first diagram and listing the obvious facts and then continue by describing in terms of the second diagram how the input from the mouse, such as a right-click, is processed and the result is output.
Read the Information Processing Cycle post for more.
3. Terminology
I cannot stress enough the importance of learning terminology. Make a list of acronyms and learn them by heart — make a set of flashcards and ask your friends and family to help you! Use the list of terms in the post Acronyms and abbreviations you should know.
As in almost any subject, knowing a little about the history of computers is important in understanding where we are now. It helps to have good general knowledge, so you need to read up on your subject!
4. Next steps
- Practice using Kahoot! Here is a link to a course which combines 3 such Kahoot!s: https://create.kahoot.it/course/4043dba6-5795-4a8d-acd4-83eb350261ef
- Visit The Museum
- Have a look at the posts tagged #terminology