Learning Outcome 1: Hardware and system software The learner is able to demonstrate an understanding of and competently operate computer-based technologies.
10.1.1	differentiates between the concepts of hardware and software. Definition of hardware / software Examples of hardware / software
10.1.2	identifies and distinguishes between computer types and associated software. Generic model / definition of a computer Portable / Non portable Computing devices vs. general use computers Specific purpose computers such as graphics workstation Hard coded / Firmware Operating systems associated with each e.g. Server – server client software, workstation software, stand alone PC – software, embedded OS Application software associated with each type
10.1.3	identifies the main hardware components of at least two types of computers. Connecting: Ports and Busses Motherboard components: BIOS chip, Chipsets, CPU, RAM (including cache), ROM, slots, cards, busses Other: I/O devices, storage Differentiate between these in two types e.g. PCs and PDAs / Cell phones or laptops
10.1.4
10.1.5	displays a knowledge of networking in terms of user-access. LANs: Log on, log off, server, clients, peer to peer networks, user profiles/rights/permissions, accessing network printers, accessing files across a network, network administration. Hacking
10.1.6
10.1.7
10.1.8
10.1.9
10.1.10	distinguishes between system software and application software (including user developed and development software). Operating systems such as Windows, Linux Utilities Drivers Application software such as spreadsheets, database Shareware, Open source, proprietary software,  freeware
10.1.11	identifies the functions of various types of operating system. General aims and functions of a generic operating system such as acting as the UI and as a platform for software to run on, file, disk, memory, storage and process management. Specialised functions of workstation vs. server, stand alone vs. network, client vs. peer
10.1.12	understands the concept of file organisation into multi-level directories. File and folder/directory naming conventions, copying, deleting, renaming and moving files/folders, reasons for having and using a file structure, finding and searching files, folders and subfolders, drives
10.1.13	distinguishes between different types of files by their extensions or applications types. Choosing and changing the application used to open a specific type of file with, e.g. Acrobat, WinZip according to local setup. Saving as and exporting between file types
10.1.14	effectively uses tools provided by the operating system and other utility packages to organise and manage the computer. General housekeeping Practical issues such as defrag and scan disk type utilities, backup procedures and scheduling, scanning for viruses and spam, archive, compress/decompress files, security features of OS
10.1.15
10.1.16	demonstrates an ability to successfully install and uninstall new software programs. Choosing between custom and full installation Product keys and activation codes
10.1.17	states and discusses the implications of the latest computer technologies. Keep current, magazines, Internet, newsletters (e-news), possible impacts in future such as cell phone technologies