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Computer
Application Technology
Computer
Applications Technology (CAT)
is the effective use of information
and communication technologies
in an end-user computer applications
environment in different sectors
of society. CAT could best be
summed up as ‘the use
of computer programs’.
Pupils will become very proficient
at using packages such as those
found in Microsoft Office®.
They will use spreadsheets,
word processors, etc. as well
as do some web page development
and become familiar with a graphics
package (such as CorelDraw®).
There is also a theory component
that looks at, amongst other
things, Networks, Hardware and
Software.
The
following focus areas will be
included in Computer Applications
Technology:
Theoretical
- Computer
hardware and software
- Networked
environments
- Information
and communication technologies
in different environments
- Computer
ethics, security and viruses
- Ergonomics,
health and safety issues
- Social
and environmental issues
- Using
an operating system, including
file management
- General
troubleshooting
Practical
- Word processing
- Spreadsheets
- Database
- End-user
computer application program
of own choice e.g. Pastel®
- Presentations
or Web Authoring Tools or
Desktop Publishing software
or any other application
software of own choice
- Integration
between various packages
e.g. database and web design
CAT
will benefit all pupils, assisting
them with further studies in
any field since most tertiary
education includes a computer
component. It will also be of
value in a work environment
as nearly all businesses have
computer systems.
Information
Technology
Information
Technology focuses on activities
that deal with the solution
of problems through logical
thinking, information management
and communication. IT could
be summed up as ‘The creation
of computer programs’.
This course has a large theory
component as well as a large
applied practical component
where learners will need to
do programming in a specific
programming language (such as
Delphi®). It also focuses
on the development of computer
applications using current development
tools. The subject develops
awareness and an understanding
of the social, economic and
other implications of using
computers.
As
an applied subject, it is a
prerequisite that the pupil
be good at both English and
Mathematics (60% or more in
both subjects is recommended).
Emphasis is placed on problem
solving and the subsequent implementation
of that solution. A good and
clear understanding of the work
will be essential.
Due
to the demands of the subject
- especially the practical -
it is compulsory for the pupils
to spend at least one afternoon
a week in the IT centre for
the duration of Grade 10 –
12. Should more time be required,
the pupil will need to dedicate
more of his or her time to the
subject.
This
subject will assist pupils should
they go on to study any computer-related
field. It will also be of value
to any other field of study,
as most courses have components
of computers.
Technology
Technology
as a subject is designed to
extend pupils'
skills, knowledge and values
in order to extend human capabilities.
Pupils
get to know how things function
and how to make them work. They
get to understand various technological
concepts, like systems and control,
materials and processing, structures
and communications. They also
become proficient in manipulating
tools and equipment, communicating
(either orally or graphically),
planning and working effectively
with others to achieve an outcome.
Pupils
also get the chance to
evaluate and discuss critically
concepts like 'Resources', 'People's
needs and wants' and 'the social
and environmental impact of
Technology'.
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