IT01 1996

 

 

1          (a) What is meant by the term `data' ?       (1)

 

(b) What is meant by the term `information' ?             (1)

 

(c) Give an example which clearly shows the difference between `data' and `information'             (2)

 

2          With the aid of an example, describe one problem which may occur when coding a value judgement. (2)

 

3          List six factors which could give rise to health or safety problems associated with the use of information technology equipment. (6)

 

 

4          A multi-national organisation maintains an information technology system which holds a large amount of vital and sensitive data.

(a) Describe three steps which should be taken to protect the data against deliberate theft or corruption. (6)

 

(b) Describe three steps which should be taken to protect the data against accidental loss.             (6)

 

5                  A professional organisation for Information Technology practitioners has developed what is referred to as the `Industry Structure Model'. What is the purpose of this model and how does it work?       (6)

6          A national distribution company advertises its products by sending personalised letters to thousands of people across the country each year. This type of letter is often known as `junk mail'.

            The distribution company purchases the list of names and addresses from an agency.

 

       (a) Describe two ways in which the use of information technology has increased the use of `junk mail'.       (4)

 

(b) The company wishes to target letters to people who are likely to buy its products. How might this be done ?       (2)

 

   (c) A person receiving this type of mail writes to the company to complain that it is acting illegally under the terms of the Data Protection Act. Give three statements the company may use in its reply to show that it is operating within the terms of the Act.       (3)


7          A large company has introduced a communication system which includes electronic mail. This system will be used both for internal use within the company and for external links to other organisations.

 

            (a) Describe two features of an electronic mail system which may encourage its use for internal communication between colleagues.  (2)

 

            (b) .Contrast the use of an electronic mail system with each of fax and the telephone.             (6)

 

            (c) Describe two functions the communication system might have, other than the creation and reception of messages.  (4)

 

 

8          The development of Information Technology has had significant effects on society, individuals and organisations.'

 

            With the aid of specific examples discuss this statement. Include in your discussion:

 

v     the effects of Information Technology on society at large;

 

v     the effects of Information Technology on employment and work methods

 

v     the effects of Information Technology on individuals.

                (20)