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Open days at schools are used to take learners on tours where they can see the facilities of the institution - NSC Information Technology - Question 6 - 2023 - Paper 2
Question 6
Open days at schools are used to take learners on tours where they can see the facilities of the institution. 6.1 Registration for an open-day event at a school tak... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Open days at schools are used to take learners on tours where they can see the facilities of the institution - NSC Information Technology - Question 6 - 2023 - Paper 2
Step 1
6.1.1 Explain what a QR code is and how it can be captured.
Answer
A QR code is a type of two-dimensional barcode that can be scanned using a digital camera or smartphone. It contains data that can include URLs, text, or other formats. To capture a QR code, the user merely points their device's camera at the code, allowing the device to read the information encoded.
Step 2
6.1.2 When completing a form online, it often happens that personal information, such as your e-mail address, is automatically entered into the fields. How does that happen?
Answer
This happens through features like auto-complete or auto-fill, which are supported by web browsers. When a user enters information in a form, the browser stores this data in a local cache. On subsequent visits, the browser retrieves this information and automatically fills in the respective fields, saving time for the user.
Step 3
6.2.1 (a) Explain what multiprocessing is.
Answer
Multiprocessing is a method where multiple processors or cores within a computer can execute separate processes simultaneously. This allows for more efficient use of the CPU and enables tasks to be completed faster as multiple threads can run at the same time.
Step 4
6.2.1 (b) Discuss how the different processes are managed by the operating system to ensure that all applications will have adequate resources.
Answer
The operating system manages processes using scheduling algorithms that prioritize tasks and allocate resources effectively. It ensures that each process receives CPU time and memory space according to its needs while preventing conflicts, allowing multiple applications to run smoothly without interfering with each other.
Step 5
6.2.2 When a person visits the website for the second time, it opens quicker than the first because of the web cache.
Answer
When a person first visits a website, the browser downloads the website's content and stores it in the cache. On subsequent visits, the browser retrieves the content from the cache, which reduces loading time since it doesn't need to redownload the data from the server.
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6.4.1 Discuss why the data above might compromise the quality of input data.
Answer
The data may compromise input quality due to inconsistent formats (e.g., 'seven' vs. '7'), which can lead to errors during data processing. Such discrepancies can complicate data analysis and make it difficult to extract meaningful insights.
Step 10
6.4.2 State TWO different techniques on how the form, in which the data is captured, could be optimised to prevent this type of input.
Answer
- Utilize selection components, such as drop-down lists or radio buttons, to standardize entries.
- Implement input masks to guide users in entering data in a consistent format.
Step 11
6.4.3 Data gathered from a form needs to be used for decision-making. The process of transforming data into information is depicted in the diagram below.
Answer
The missing labels may be: (a) Information and (b) Knowledge, indicating the steps from raw data processing through to informed decision-making.
Step 12
6.5.1 Why would a distributed database be a more suitable option for this scenario?
Answer
A distributed database can accommodate many users and can be accessed from multiple locations, enhancing performance and minimizing traffic on any single server. This is particularly important for a school handling large volumes of data from numerous learners.
Step 13
6.5.2 Briefly explain how encryption works.
Answer
Encryption transforms readable data into an unreadable format using a specific algorithm and a key, ensuring that only authorized parties can decrypt and access the original information, thus protecting it from unauthorized access during transmission.
Step 14
6.5.3 Suggest which distributed database model will be most suitable for this scenario and motivate your answer.
Answer
A replicated distributed database model would be most suitable as it stores copies of data across multiple locations ensuring high availability and fault tolerance. This means that if one server fails, others can still provide access to the data, which is critical for maintaining the integrity of the school’s information systems.
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6.6.2 Which policy document can be used as motivation for the need to take disciplinary action against the perpetrator?
Answer
The Acceptable Usage Policy (AUP) can be referenced, as it outlines the guidelines for appropriate use of school resources and the consequences for violations, including unauthorized sharing of confidential information.
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