GSC Information Systems Class

Interview with Bill Gates and Steve Jobs

2007-06-01T04:18:00.001+08:00

Modules and Procedures

2007-05-11T01:07:00.000+08:00

Apply modular principles and simple parameter-passing.

Resources:

Modules Presentation
Programming Principles R. and H. Oliver
p53, 55, 58, 61, 66, 68, 70
Podcasts - Modules Part 1, Modules Part 2, Modules Part 3 and Functions

Simple Problems using array and files

2007-05-11T00:57:00.000+08:00

Apply Pseudocode and Nassi-Shneiderman diagrams to solve simple problems.
Apply programming to solve simple problems.
Apply data structures, including simple arrays and records.

Resources:

Podcasts

Using Files
Using Files p34
Using Files p37
Array Introduction
Arrays P44 Part 1 and Part 2
Arrays and Files

Programming Principles R. and H. Oliver

p34-44, 47, 50, 51

Blackline masters with with algorithm problems - especially for arrays and records

Basic Programming Control Structures

2007-05-11T00:01:00.000+08:00

Apply:
· sequence
· selection
· iteration

Resources:

Programming chapter from textbook
Programming Control Structures Presentation
Podcasts - While(Test First) Introduction, While p9, For (Fixed Rep) Introduction, For p15, Selection IF..Then..Else Introduction, Selection p21, Selection Nested p27
Programming Principles by R. and H. Oliver

pages 2,3,5,9,10,11,12,13,15,17,21,22,24,25,27,28
(Mr McWillam has the algorithm and python programming solutions)

Programming Lanugages Overview

2007-05-10T23:55:00.000+08:00

Define:
· machine code
· assembler languages
· procedural languages
· fourth generation languages (4GL)
Define and compare:
· interpreters
· compilers

Resources:
Programming Chapter from textbook
Languages Terminology Presentation
Software Generations Worksheet

Languages (Programming) Outline

2007-05-10T23:53:00.000+08:00

1. Define:
· machine code
· assembler languages
· procedural languages
· fourth generation languages (4GL)
2. Define and compare:
· interpreters
· compilers
3. Apply:
· sequence
· selection
· iteration
6. Apply Pseudocode and Nassi-Shneiderman diagrams to solve simple problems.
7. Apply programming to solve simple problems.
5. Apply data structures, including simple arrays and records.
4. Apply modular principles and simple parameter-passing.

Getting Started with Python

2007-05-08T06:00:00.000+08:00

Python is the freely distributed open-source program that we will use for the languages section of this course. It is available for all operating systems. You can download it from here.

Python Review 1 - Handouts Page 1
Python Review 2 - Data types

There are some nice getting started instructions at http://challenge.ncss.edu.au/gsg-windows/. (Note: The download link on this page doesn't work. Use the one above)

Questions for the Teleconference

2007-05-03T02:09:00.000+08:00

In this document have put answers and/ or links to place to find information for each of these questions.

Ms. Olson

Want to get this videos on your computer?

2007-04-30T04:32:00.001+08:00

Subscribe to my podcast on iTunes.

You can search on iTunes for Information Systems 12. However, I find searching on iTunes can take a long time. The quicker way is to use the Advanced Menu and subscribe using the feed below.

http://www.yapiodesign.com/krisolson/Information_Systems_12feed.xml

I left small mistakes in the Podcasts so that you can see that everyone makes syntax and logic errors. The trick is to find the errors and fix them. Determination and persistence are very admirable qualities when debugging programs.

Database Outline

2007-04-23T05:51:00.000+08:00

Types of Databases
Data Topics
Relationships
Entity Relationship Diagrams
Multi-table Queries
More on the relational Model
Normalisation
Assessment

Database Assessment

2007-04-23T05:48:00.000+08:00

Database overview
E-R Diagram
Normalisation
Open Book Test

Normalisation

2007-04-23T05:44:00.000+08:00

Read handouts p. 211-216 and the "High Tech Talk" section at the end of Chapter 10 from your text book.

View video podcast. The podcast example is based on Exercise #1 at http://cs.senecac.on.ca/~dbs201/pages/Normalization_Practice.htm

Complete review exercises 10.1 & 10.2 from your handouts

Multitable Queries

2007-04-23T05:37:00.000+08:00

Microstar Ch 9

Entity Relationship Diagrams

2007-04-23T05:26:00.002+08:00

Framework for data modeling (Handouts p 13 and 17)
Review Suggested Standards
Introduction to E-R Diagrams
Cardinality
Handouts p. 27-32 Types of Relationships
Review questions: 2.2, 2.7, 2.12
Handouts p. 48 - 53 Examples of Data modeling
Resolving M:N Relationships
Review Exercises: 2.1, 2.3,2.4 (E-R only), 2.5 (E-R only), 2.6
Challenge Problems 2.1, 2.2 , 2.3, 2.4

Microstar Relationships

2007-04-23T05:26:00.001+08:00

Supplier Stock Problem
Complete Ch8 Microstar Materials covering Relationships

Data Topics

2007-04-09T03:27:00.000+08:00

This video shows a flat file database and examines database terminology related to it.

Data duplication: data repeated in a table
Data redundancy: the unnecessary duplication of data
Data integrity: the accuracy or correctness of data
Table/ Entity / Relation: a cluster of data representing one thing stored in rows and columns
Row/Record/Tuple: collection data stored about one item in the table/ entity/ relation
Column/Field/ Attribute: the facts stored in each record
Primary Key: unique identifier for each record
Foreign Key: field in a table that matches a primary key in another table allowing the tables to be joined
Insertion Anomalies: The inability to add information to a database because extra data is required to add it to the database (in our example - we couldn't add supplier details before receiving a movie)
Update Anomalies: changes must be made in multiple locations (in our example: if a supplier moved the address would need to be changed in many records)
Deletion Anomalies: deleting a row causes other data to be deleted (in our example: removing a movie causes supplier details to be deleted)

Communications Outline

2007-03-23T05:07:00.001+08:00

The Internet
Searching the Internet
Communications Overview
Chapter 9 - Communications and Networks
Ethernet
Another Communications Presentation
Communications Research Assignment
Computer Security
Computer Ethics
OSI Model and Quiz
System Building Project Assignment
Topic Test

Types of databases

2007-03-20T01:29:00.001+08:00

http://unixspace.com/context/databases.html

Trevor's Tips - System Building Project- Communications

2007-03-20T00:23:00.001+08:00

You have been hired by Trevor's Tips as an Information and Communications specialist to set up an illegal betting system. Trevor plans to hire the following staff

a secretary to do administrative work such as write letters and memos
ten data entry operators to enter phone wagers
five sports analysts to analyse the various sporting events, set the odds and enter this data into the sports database
a web designer to create the web interface for internet betting.

Trevors has authorised you to purchase desktop computers for himself, you, his secretary, the ten data entry operators and the web designer. He has authorised you to purchase laptops for the sports analysts. Four printers and two print servers have been authorised. Trevor feels that the data entry operators can share one printer, the sports analysts can share one printer, his secretary and himself need their own printers as they may need to print confidential materials.

Task 1
Trevor's first task for you is to draw an annotated diagram showing how all the computers will be networked and identify communications equipment needed for this. Trevor would like to host the web site at his secret location as opposed to hosting it at an ISP. The betting system will contain lots of confidential data such as client names and credit card numbers. He would also like the diagram to address the following security issues:

loss of data due to hardware failure
loss of confidential data due to external intrusion
information theft due to interception of wireless transmission

Task 2
Trevor is very concerned about computer viruses, worms, trojan horses and spyware. He would like you to explain the difference between each of these and propose a company policy to prevent company problems due to them.

Task 3
Although your network diagram addressed the issue of unauthorised access from external sources (hacker/ cracker), Trevor is worried that some of his employees may access information (such as credit card numbers) and steal them. Identify what access controls are and how they can be used to secure confidential data internally.

Task 4
Loss of laptops has lead to the loss of confidential information in a number of organisations. Trevor would like you identify and describe three measures you would recommend that would recommend that would keep confidential information private even if a laptop containing confidential information was lost or stolen.

Task 5
Some clients may want to email their betting information to Trevor's Tips. Describe and recommend a system that will keep this information secure.

Online OSI Quiz

2007-03-15T22:37:00.001+08:00

The OSI model is a framework for defining communication standards. You should read the hand out from your teacher and the High Tech Talk at the end of Chapter 9.

Be able to identify and describe each of the layers i.e. Layer 7 is the Application Layer. The application layer provides network services to user applications.
Be able to identify protocols operating at each layer i.e. Layer 7/ Application Layer - File Transfer Protocol (FTP), Hypertext transfer protocol (HTTP) etc
Be able to identify hardware devices defined at each layer i.e. Layer 3 / Network Layer - Routers (forwards packets along optimal path)

This quiz may help you check your understanding - http://gocertify.com/quizzes/osi/

Computer Ethics

2007-03-15T01:13:00.000+08:00

Computer Ethics covers the area of moral guidelines that govern the use of computers. Consider each of the following situations and decide whether you believe the company made an ethical decision.

Your company digitally manipulated photos in their brochure.
Your company has a department to handle customers who feel that data that you hold in your database of customers is incorrect.
Your web designer copied the html of a competitor's web site, modified it and used it for your company web site.
A song created specifically for commercials for your company has been swapped on bit torrent.
Someone posted your company's commerical on YouTube.
A clever employee has used data collected from an online form at your web site to identify customers who are unlikely to pay their debts to you.
An employee lost a laptop with 200 employees data on it including names, phone numbers, tax file numbers, other payroll information.
Another enterprising employee wants to sell customer data including names and addresses to a marketer.
Your company web site uses cookies to track user preferences and passwords.
Your company provides free software to customers to facilitate online purchases. However, hidden in that software is a program that tells you what other web sites they visit.
Your company sends out email to customers advising them of new products.
Your company puts RFID tags in your name tag to allow them to track your whereabouts at all times.
Installed on your company computer is software that allows your boss to view your desktop at any time to see what you are doing.
Your company uses a proxy server that filters incoming web traffic allowing employees to view only certain web sites.

Computer Security

2007-03-15T00:13:00.000+08:00

Computer Security Risks

any event or action that culd cause a loss of or damage to computer hardware, software, data, information or processing capability
accidental and deliberate
common security risks include viruses, worms, trojan horses, unauthorised access and use, hardware theft, software theft, information theft and system failure

Viruses, Worms and Trojan Horses

How Stuff Works and you textbook give excellent descriptions about the differences between each of these and how businesses can safeguard their network against them

Unauthorised Access

use of a computer network without permission
hackers/crackers are those individuals who access a computer or network illegally
common safeguards include firewalls, IDS, access controls

Firewalls may be hardware or software systems that restrict incoming and outgoing traffic. (Mr McWilliam will show you a short animated movie about this)
IDS stands for intrusion detection software. This is a type of software that analyzes all network traffic and notifies network administrators of any suspected system breaches.
Access controls limit internal and external access to data and systems. The most common access control is the use of user names and passwords. Access to data and systems should be limited to only those individuals who require it to limit accidental or intentional security breaches. Example: Census Bureau EBay customer database . Access controls can specify who can read, write or modify based on user name. Other access controls include possessed objects, biometric devices and call back systems.
Hardware Theft
stealing of computer equipment
can result in the loss of data as well. example: Florida dept of tranportation
controls include mostly physical controls such as locked doors, locked windows, cables
Software Theft
organisations need to ensure that all software used in the organisation is covered by a license agreement. Generally most licenses are for only a single user. However, some software manufacturers offer site licenses.
Information Theft
theft of personal or confidential information
one of the top threats facing corporate America
Encryption is the best safeguard. Encryption converts readable data to unreadable data.
A common form of encryption is public key (asymmetric) encryption which allows senders to encrypt using a public key and receivers decrypt using a private key. Pretty Good Privacy (PGP) is a common public key encryption service and is used for things like email.
TrueCrypt is a nice open source symmetric key encryption system that can be used to encrypt storage devices like hard drives. (If a corporate hard drive is stolen, customer private data can not be read from the drive)
Encryption is used extensively on the internet to protect data traveling over the public network. Examples include Virtual Private Networks to create secure connections, digital certificates to authenticate users, SSL and SHTTP which encrypt data between a client and server,

Communications Research Assignment

2007-03-13T02:37:00.000+08:00

Part I (28 points)

You have started work as the IT manager for a new business wants to have a big web presence. The owner of the business has asked you to research DDOS (Distributed Denial of Service) ransom attacks like the one described in this article. A colleague has recommended a podcast , Security Now # 8 DDOS Attacks, done by security expert Steve Gibson. Transcripts of all of Steve's podcasts and links to other interesting information are at http://www.grc.com/securitynow.htm.

You are required to create an annotated diagram(s) that show how DDOS attacks occur. You must show at least the following in your diagram and annotate the diagram with definitions/ descriptions of each.

web server
zombie
zombie fleet/ bot army
zombie master
malware
router
spoof
IP Address
web Client
bandwidth
packet
source IP
destination IP
dropped packet

Part II (28 Marks)
Your employer has previously externally hosted their web site. You have been asked to create an analysis of broadband options that would improve connection speeds and allow the business web server to be on site. Research and compare four of the the following internet connection options in Australia in terms ISP, upload speed, maximum download speed, cost, regional availability, download allowance, and other relevant factors (provide a hyper link to the information source)

ISDN
ADSL
other DSL
Fibre
Cable
Wireless Broadband
Satellite

Another Communications Presentaton

2007-03-13T02:35:00.000+08:00

See presentation at http://www.box.net/public/59ej62b7q1

Ethernet

2007-03-13T01:49:00.000+08:00

Listen to the first 20 minutes of Security Now Podcast about Ethernet and answer the following questions. You can access this at school. See your teacher to access it. Alternatively, you can download it at http://media.grc.com/sn/SN-029.mp3. When they reference social security number, you need to think tax file number.

What is a MAC address? Why is it unique?
Why can't they be used as addresses in a WAN instead of IP addresses?
In the original bus network connected by coaxial cable what was at each end?
How were computers connected to the bus network at that time?
What was one of the big draw backs with that type of network?
Identify and describe the other LAN technology available at that time.
What does CSMA/CD stand for?
How does it work?
Why do collisions occur?
What happens if a collision occurs?
Why don't token ring networks have collisions?
What happens as the amount of LAN traffic increases?
Describe hubs (how they are used and their drawbacks) - BUS NETWORK
Describe switches (how they are used and their drawbacks) - STAR NETWORK
Hubs and switches both have a physical topology of the star network. However, hubs are considered logical bus networks - Why?

NOTE: a term that we haven't covered but you need to know is Bridge.
Bridges are devices used to connect two local area networks using the same protocol- Ethernet or Token Ring

Chapter 9 - Communications and Networks

2007-03-09T04:37:00.000+08:00

Read Chapter 9 Communications and Networks and answer the following questions.

What is the difference between an analog signal and a digital signal? explain using both text and a diagram.

What is VOIP?

What are the five reasons businesses use a network?

What is the difference between a LAN, a MAN and a WAN?

What is a client/server network? (define server and client in your answer)

What is a peer-to-peer network?

Is a business that has 200 computers likely to use a client/ server or a peer-to-peer network? (explain your answer)

What is internet peer-to-peer?

Using words and diagrams describe each of the following topologies - bus, ring, and star.

Describe each of the following communication technologies - Ethernet (802.3), Token Ring, TCP/IP, 802.11, Bluetooth, IrDA, RFID, WAP,

Briefly describe each of the types of communication over telephone lines.

Briefly describe the various communication devices.

What is a router?

What is noise?

What is attenuation?

What is bandwidth?

If you have not done so already - create a chart that identifies each transmission media (physical and wireless), a brief description of it, its transfer speed, and advantages/ disadvantages associated with each.

Communications Overview

2007-03-09T04:10:00.000+08:00

See Power Point at http://www.box.net/public/inuockabh8

Searching the Internet

2007-03-07T12:02:00.000+08:00

Boolean Search
Searching the Internet

Exercises
More Exercises

The Internet

2007-03-06T04:42:00.000+08:00

To cover the content for this you will need to read Chapter 2 "The Internet and World Wide Web" from your text book, Discovering Computers 2006, and listen to about 1.5 hours worth of podcasts. The first podcast is called the Internet - click here for jargon, slides, video version and/or audio version. You can skip the first 30 minutes or so. Three other podcasts that are helpful include Web Servers (Quicktime format, Flash Format), TCP/IP (Quicktime format, Flash format) and HTTP (Quicktime format, Flash format)

These podcasts can be listened to at school. They also can be taken home or downloaded at home. You need to answer the following questions.

What is the Internet?
What are the different ways a person can connect to the Internet?
What is an access provider?
Describe three types of service providers.
Draw an annotated diagram showing how a student accesses a web page.
Define the following terms- IP Address, domain name, top-level domain
What is the DNS and why is it important?
Do the terms WWW and Internet mean the same thing?
What other services are available on the Internet besides the WWW?
Describe the difference between a peer-to-peer network and a client-server network architecture.
In using the WWW describe the client and the server relationship?
In using the WWW what software is commonly the client? What software is commonly the server?
What are the protocols for web page browsing, outgoing mail servers, incoming mail servers, web mail servers, uploading files,?
Is this a distributed or centralised processing environment? Support your answer.
Can ISPs or other servers read you Internet transmissions - email, instant messages, web pages viewed?
What is a LAN?
What is a WAN?
What is the major difference between them?
What is the difference between http and html?
Write an URL and identify the domain name, top-level domain, protocol, directory/ folders and resources/ file accessed.
What is FTP used for?
What is the difference betweeen http and https?
Find out the IP address of the GSC website - www.gsc.wa.edu.au
Go to the Traceroute tool and trace to the IP address of the school website from someplace in the US - what does each line represent?
If you run it again is it exactly the same?
Trace from someplace other than the US.

Student Generated Info Sys Questions - 16 March

2007-03-05T23:17:00.000+08:00

1. How does the SDLC fit into the overall view of developing an information system?

The SDLC is one methodology for developing an information system. An opposing methodology would be prototyping. The SDLC is a more formalised process often taking longer than prototyping. However, for large projects or projects that have very specific requirements this process can produce better results. A prototype is a working model.

2. What are the different stages of the SDLC?

This depends on what literature you are reading. However, early on you received a handout on the stages commonly used in the Information Systems exam.

3. What people are involved in developing an information system?

See heading in your text book "Who participates in the System Development Lifecycle" approx p. 622.

4. What are the characteristics of office information system?

p. 726

6. What are the characteristics of a transaction processing information system?

p726 - captures data from day-to-day business activities such as deposits, payments, orders, reservations. See other examples o p. 726

5. What are the characteristics of a management information system?

p727 - mis systems generate accurate, timely and organised information so managers can make decisions, solve problems, supervise activities and track progress.
Used for day to day decisions.
Used by low level managers.
often integrated with or based on TPS.
Summary reports and exception reports are common examples.

7. What are the characteristics of a decision support system?

p. 728 analyse data to make major decisions - specialised reports to make major decisions
uses data from internal and external sources
often answer what-if questions by creating models
maybe used for things such as determining the price of a new product

8. What is the difference between the Context Diagram and Level 0 data flow diagram?

p 5 - diagram sheets
Context Diagrams show an overview of the system. They identify the scope of the system by establishing the system boundary. They identify the people or other systems that interact with the system analysed and they identify the flow of data/ information into/ out of the system. They do NOT identify specific processes within the system.

Level 0 Diagrams additionally show the processes and files within the system.

9. What are some ways of working out processes from the context diagram

You can not work out processes form the Context Diagram. Systems Analyst can only identify processes through information gathering techniques - survey, questionnaire, observation, review of system documentation, etc. For students generally you will identify processes by reading through the case study and analysing the processes within the system based on the system boundary set in the Context Diagram.

10. In drawing a data flow diagram, what is a good starting point?

Reviewing the Context diagram.
Get a set of coloured highlighters
Read the case study highlighting the various components using different colours (See page 27 from handouts to help with this)
Draw in the processes first (like on page 32)
Add in dataflows process by process (p 33 -34)
check for drawing errors (p. 30 - NO entity to entity, NO entity to data store, NO data store to data store)
NOTE: often you need to create several drafts to get a well constructed diagram
FYI - Interesting example of distributed computing using PS3s

Leveled Diagrams

2007-03-02T05:03:00.001+08:00

Homework
Read p. 42-50
Activity 4.1-4.5

Class - question and answer to ensure understanding

Level 0 Diagrams (LDFDs/ DFDs)

2007-03-02T04:42:00.000+08:00

Hand out pages pages 23-34 only
Homework (Introduction) Read P. 23-34 and complete activity 3.1

Alternative ways to identify components include

create a chart with 5 columns and add items as you read the case

use symbols around words as reading circle around processes, square around entity, three sided rectangle around data stores and arrows under data/ informtion flows.

Common mistakes include adding the person following procedures and an entity. An entity must provide data to system and/ or use information to the system. Usually, cashiers, secretaries, receptionists, etc are NOT entities

As a class read and draw Level 0 diagram for Brindabella Case on p. 16. When done hand out p. 35 with answers

Why do we have a members and activities data store?

Students individually (or in pairs) to create Level 0 for Westside Videos p. 17

Trade papers, hand out page 36 and check
They may have an additional data store for loans
Ask the following questions:

How did they identify components? - highlighting, chart, symbols?
What do you put in the Level 0 first?
Then what do you put in?
How did you check your LDFFD?

Hand out page 37. Students create LFDF for EVITSA. Swap papers and mark.

Homework activity: 3.2- 3.4

Correct in next class (have individual students put up on board)

In class do 3.5 and 3.6

More Information Systems Terms

2007-02-27T05:43:00.000+08:00

Here are more terms that you need to know for the Informations Systems topic .

Information Systems Term Presentation

Information Systems Assignment

2007-02-26T04:40:00.000+08:00

Case Study #1

Crystal, Josh and Michael studied medicine in university and started their own practice. They hired several office staff and nurses. They leased a large building with many exam rooms and a large waiting room. Patients call for appointments but often need to wait a very long time to get in to see a doctor. Once at the doctor's office they spend a long time in the waiting room and little time with the doctor. They feel that the doctors are rushed and don't really seem to know much about their medical status. Medical details about each patient are stored in paper file. Sometimes these files get misplaced. The medical practice is barely making money due the large payroll obligations requried to pay all the staff and minimal reimbursement from Medicare.

Crystal recently heard about a study done by the Institute for Healthcare Improvement and read an article called Starting a Revolution in Office-based Care. She proposes to her partners that they consider redesigning their systems in their medical practice based on this article and one by Gordon Moore called Going Solo: Making the Leap. Dr Moore leased a small space and did not employ any clerical staff. He made better use of technology to communicate with his patients and to store data about his patients. He was able to improve his customer service and reduce the costs of running his practice.

Crystal's partners, Josh and Michael, have some reservations about this change.

The medical practice is in the Preliminary Investigation phase of the System Development Life Cycle (SDLC). The Preliminary Investigation has two components (as per our class handouts). Identify each component of the Preliminary Investigation and explain it in terms of this case study. (Note: simple definitions will not receive full points.) (7 Marks)

Case Study #2 Mesa Public Library

You have been retained as a systems analyst consultant to document the borrowing processes at the Mesa public library. Systems analysts obtain information in a variety of ways. Your colleague, Kris Olson, has been to the library and observed how it work. She has obtained source documents from the library and interviewed the staff. The following is a synopsis of her interviews. If you have questions please post them as comments on this blog. (Additionally, you can review system documentation at the library web site.)

When a library clerk receives new books or other materials, he records the information in the library inventory file. Each book is given a unique number which is recorded in addition to a bar code on the book.

New library members must fill out an application. The application requests personal details and a pin number. The librarian records this data, which is stored in the member file, and issues the new member a unique library card number which is on a library card along with a corresponding bar code that represents the library card number. See libary card - front and back.

Members may search for and reserve books or other materials by accessing the library system from home. The web site provides a variety of search mechanisms. (Consider what data is being used here and what data store might be accessed). Once a book or other material is found it may be reserved using the member's number and pin. Reservation data is stored in the reserves file. The library notifies the member when the book or other material is available (notification can be by phone, mail or email).

Members go to the library to pick up items and then check them out themselves using a self check out process. First the library member puts their card under the scanner. The scanner reads the library card bar code and the computer retrieves the information about the library member. Next the member puts their first library item under the scanner. The bar code on the items is read and information relating to that item is retrieved. This is done for all library items. The member presses print receipt when finished. A receipt is printed that shows each item check out, when it is due (three weeks from check out date), the total number of items checked out and the date and time. The library system also records this information in the borrowing file.

When the member return the item, the return date is recorded in the borrowing file.

Daily the system checks for overdue items and sends notices to members regarding overdue items (mail, email, or phone). Follow-up notices are sent every two weeks with the amount of fine owing.

Every three months the following reports are generated for the head librarian.
number of days on loan per item sorted from highest to lowest
a list of items that have not been borrowed in over 365 days sorted by the last loan date in ascending order
number of days on loan by item type (book, CD, DVD, VHS, map, etc)
a list of members owning more than $50 in fines

Define the term datum/data (1 Mark)

Give an example of data from this case study (1 Mark)

Define the term information (1 Mark)

Give an example of information from this case study. (1 Mark)

Give an example of a transaction processing system in the library ( 1 mark)

Give an example of a managment information system in the library ( 1 Mark)

Why is the transaction processing system necessary for the management information system? (1 Mark)

Is this an open or closed information system ? Support your answer or no credit given (1 Mark)

When accessing the library web site to search or reserve a book from home, the home computer browser is doing part of the processing and the library web site is doing part of the processing - is this a centralised or distributed information system - support your answer or no credit given (1 mark)

A previeous systems analyst has prepared this Context Diagram depicting the library borrowing system. What is the purpose of the Context Diagram? (1 Mark)

You have been asked to create a Level 0 LDFD for the library system. How will this diagram differ from a Context Diagram? (1 Mark)

Why would you use diagrams, such as Context Diagrams and Level 0 LDFDs, to describe a system in addition to a written textual description? (1 Mark)

Given this scenario and this Context Diagram you will be asked to create a Level 0 LDFD in class. You may work on this at home and ask questions as necessary. You will have one block in class to create the Level 0. You must follow the suggested standards and you must follow the system as defined by the Context Diagram. You will not be allowed any notes but your teacher will provide you with a fresh copy of the scenario(26 Marks)

The library wants to use expand its services to provide services to member via mobile devices such as PDA and/ or mobile phones. Would you suggest using a prototyping approach or a SDLC approach? (support your answer or no credit will be given) (1 mark)

The Mesa Library relies heavily on computers in its information systems. Does that mean that it had no information systems prior to the introduction computers in society (support your answer or no credit will be given) (1 Mark)

Case Study #3 (6 Marks)

Read the article Britons angry over trash bin tracking (don't skip the second page - its important). You may also want to look at the Webopedia entry on RFID.

Is the RFID device on the trash bin a communication system or an information system (support your answer or no credit) (1 Mark)

The article says that the RFID tags hold lots of information. Based on our definitions of data and information, do the RFID tags hold lots of data or lots of information - again support your answer or no credit (1 Mark)

It appears that a direct implementation of the new system has occured. Describe each (including direct) of the types of implementation as they were/ could have used in the RFID wheelie bin system. (4 Marks)

Context Diagrams II - Additional Questions

2007-02-24T01:58:00.000+08:00

Activtiy 2.5 - Why isn't Pilar shown in the Context Diagram?

Activity 2.6 -
Would it be okay to write Andy instead of Workshop Manager?
Why isn't Elaine shown in the Context Diagram?

Activity 2.7 -
Why is Dr Equine shown in the Context Diagram but not Bradley?

Personal Best

2007-02-24T01:43:00.000+08:00

GSC students I hear that you generally did not do very well on your initial assessments. Not everyone can be the top of the class but everyone can strive to improve.

I hope that you will use the Personal Best worksheet to monitor how you are faring and record your personal bests as you improve. Monitor your marks in comparison to the class average just as you would monitor your performance in sport or in electronic gaming.

Context Diagrams I

2007-02-24T01:25:00.000+08:00

From System Documentation Methods

Read Context Diagrams p8 - 16 (Homework)
Complete Activity 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4 (Homework)

In class as a class create a context diagram for Case Study 1 - Brindabella Bird Watching Club

Students to individually or in pairs (no more) create a context diagram for Case Study 2 Westside Videos

Randomly select one student to put theirs on the board for others to comment on. (Note: No context diagram or level 0 diagram looks like another - just because something looks different doesn't mean that it is wrong. It is wrong if it doesn't follow the suggested standards and/ or it doesn't follow or make reasonable assumptions from the information given)

Homework and classwork activities - Activities 2.5- 2.8. These need to be reviewed as a class on the board.

Modelling Information Systems

2007-02-24T01:16:00.000+08:00

Read Unit 1 - Modelling Information Systems
Complete activities 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4

Is any of the information in this different from what we have previously learned? If so what is different?

Introductory Presentation

2007-02-15T11:11:00.000+08:00

Presentation from school is also located at http://www.box.net/public/v5f46o9mmd

Systems Development Methodologies

2007-02-15T10:15:00.000+08:00

Many IT terms has multiple definitions. We are going to explore these various definitions in terms of Information Systems Development.

Read the Systems Development Lifecycle (SDLC) Handout that describes the various phases of the SDLC.

Read Chapter 12 - Information Systems Development

Answer the following questions based on your readings.

What are the similarities/ differences between the two descriptions of the SDLC?
What are the responsibilities of the following in the SDLC: ? systems analyst, steering committee, project team (who is on the team?), project leader
What tool is often used to plan and schedule time relationships among project activities?
Identify and define the four main types of feasibility
Identify and describe six methods of gathering data/ information used by systems analysts
Describe three possible situations that might initiate the SDLC.
During which step of the SDLC are the following tools used to describe the information system - Entity-Relationship (E-R) Diagrams, Data Flow Diagrams (DFDs, LDFDs), Project Dictionary, Data Dictionary?
Describe the purpose of each of the following Entity-Relationship (E-R) Diagrams, Data Flow Diagrams (DFDs, LDFDs), Project Dictionary, Data Dictionary
What are CASE tools? How are they used?
There are four systems development conversion strategies - identify and describe each.

Read about an alternative method of system development called Prototyping - http://www.is.cityu.edu.hk/Research/WorkingPapers/paper/9704.pdf

A prototype is a working model (working as in a model still in development). Prototypes can be used in either the SDLC (design phase) or in prototyping.

Describe the prototyping process described in the article as evolutionary systems development

In what situations would a prototyping approach be advantageous? (explain)

In what situations would the SDLD approach be advantageous? (explain)

Skype

2007-02-11T09:39:00.000+08:00

Those students who want to talk to me (audio or video) can do so for free using Skype. You can download it at http://www.skype.com/. My Skype name is kris.olson.au

If you need to figure out the time where I am, check out --

http://www.timeanddate.com/worldclock/city.html?n=853

Notice that it is one day earlier in the USA.

Course Documentation

2007-02-11T06:35:00.000+08:00

Some important paperwork for the class can be found at the Curriculum Council site.

Syllabus (this defines the content of the subject)

Timeplan (this covers what will be covered when and the approximate date of assessments)

Assessment Plan (this identifies the weighting of each assessment in compliance with the Curriculum Council standards.)

Grade Related Descriptors (these define what a students should know/ be able to do for an A, B, C, D, E. There is also some good information/ definitions in here)

Suggested Standards (this document defines the most accepted ways to draw Context Diagrams, Level 0 Diagrams, Nassi-Schneiderman (N-S) diagrams, write pseudocode, and draw Entity-Relationship (E-R) Diagrams)

Tools that you can/ should use during the year include

Webopedia - Computer Dictionary

Wikipedia - Collaborative Free Encyclopedia - Be sure to verify information from this resource. It is generally good but remember anyone can change an entry so it is not always accurate.

Computer Architecture Power Point Presentation

2007-02-07T20:20:00.000+08:00

You can access it here
http://www.box.net/public/kd45ssltxa#main

Computer Architecture Research Assignment

2007-02-01T06:43:00.000+08:00

Use your text book and the Internet to answer the following questions. Your work should be submitted to the school "hand in work folder" or emailed to Mr. McWilliam. All work needs to be completed independently. You may be asked to orally describe your answers to validate your knowledge and ensure it is your own work.

Part 1: Windows Vista Upgrade

What is the minimum processing speed requirements for a Windows XP user to upgrade to Windows Vista and be able to use all of the Vista features including the Windows Aero user experience? (1 Mark)

What is the minimum memory requirements for a Windows XP user to upgrade to Windows Vista and be able to use all of the Vista features including the Windows Aero user experience? (1 Mark)

What are the minimum secondary storage requirements for a Windows XP user to upgrade to Windows Vista and be able to use all of the Vista features including the Windows Aero user experience? (1 Mark)

What other system requirements are necessary for a Windows XP user to upgrade to Windows Vista and be able to use all of the Vista features including the Windows Aero user experience?
(2 Marks)

Articles such as "Windows graphics systemto be Overhauled" discuss the major changes in Windows Vista in regards to graphics processing. In terms of types of processing (Computer Architecture syllabus #6) describe the type of processing discussed here. (1 Mark)

Word Size refers to the number of bits that a CPU can process at one time. Today most computers are 32 bit or 64 bit computers. Research Windows Vista options for a user who has a 64bit processor. Give each of the following users advice in terms of Windows Vista.

Tristan has a 32 bit processor and what to upgrade to Windows Vista. He wants the best operating system ever and plans to upgrade to Windows Vista. He has suggested he wants the 64 bit version. Should he buy that version? Explain your answer. (1 Mark)
Michael has a 64 bit processor and wants to upgrade to Windows Vista. He has checked and his RAM and graphics cards meet the specifications. Should he upgrade to the 32 bit version or the 64 bit version? (Explain your answer and give a minimum of one reference supporting your answer) (1 Mark)
Rosalie is buying a new computer with a 64 bit processor. She has the option to purchase it with either the 32 bit version of Windows Vista or the 64 bit version of Windows Vista. She has heard that there could be problems with the 64 bit version and has asked your advice as to what she should do. (Explain your answer and give a minimum of one reference supporting your answer) (1 Mark)

Part II: iPhone
Define the term convergence as it relates to computer architecture. (1 Mark)

Watch the first part of the iPhone Introduction at http://www.apple.com/quicktime/qtv/mwsf07/ . Describe how the iPhone is an example of convergence. (1 Mark)

Define the term compatible as it relates to computer architecture. (1 Mark)

Describe an example of compatibility (or incompatibility) as it relates to the iPhone (1 Mark)

Define software and describe the two major types of software (system software and application software) (3 Marks)

What system software is in the iPhone introduction? (1 mark)

What application software is in the iPhone introduction? (1 mark)

Part III: Processor Technologies

You have been hired as a consultant to advise Meg's Music on a new computer system acquisition. Meg plans to use her system to store data about musical instrument stock and her customers. She would like you to explain the new Intel Core 2 Quad Q6600 Processor.

She has read the review at http://www.sharkyextreme.com/hardware/cpu/article.php/3261_3652811__1
and has the following questions:

Why is cache important (describe how it works and how it impacts the performance of a computer)? (1 mark)

Describe the different types of cache that are present in the new Intel Core 2 Quad Q6600 Processor? (2 marks)

What is a bus? (1 Mark)

Explain the difference between a front side bus and a cache bus. (1 mark)

What type of processing (in terms of item 6 on the Computer Architecture syllabus) does this processor offer? (Be sure to support you answer with an explanation or no credit will be given) (1 mark)

Part IV: PSP
Your little brother has seen a news release about the PSP - PSP 3.10 at http://biz.gamedaily.com/industry/news/?id=15111&ncid=AOLGAM000500000000031.

He asks you what firmware is. Explain to him what firmware is in terms of the PSP and just to show what a know it all you are explain to him what firmware is in terms of a computer. (2 Marks)

Resources:

Information Systems Syllabus

Webopedia

DL TV
The Jan 30 Episode discusses Vista at length - especially useful the third section by Lloyd Case which can be accessed on its own.

Upgrade from Windows XP to Vista

64 Bit Computing

Sharkeyextreme.com CPU Review Intel Core 2 Quad Q6600 Processor Review

Week One - Important Points

2007-02-01T00:52:00.000+08:00

Hardware Lectures-
you should be able to get copies from Mr. McWilliam or you can download from the following links

Lecture 1
video version
audio version
jargon
slides

Lecture 2
video version
audio version
jargon
slides

You need to be able to define

define binary
explain why computers use binary code
complete simple converstions between binary and decimal
explain the purpose of ascii
translate from binary to characters using an ascii table

You need to be able to define each of the following and describe them in terms of size, speed, cost and how they work

ROM (Bios)
Registers
Cache (L1, L2)
RAM (Main Memory)
Magnetic Storage - Floppy Drive, Hard Drive, Tape Drives
Optical Storage - CD-Rom Drive, DVD Drive
(another great resources - How Computer Memory Works (read both pages))

Describe the purpose of components of a motherboard including

battery
clock
fan
cpu
BIOS (ROM)
RAM (Memory)
expansion slots (know the types of expansion slots)
ports (know the types of ports)