A school keeps student records in a database. The data is coded before entry. State three reasons why the coding is necessary.

Source: KCSE Computer Studies 2013 - Paper 1
Question Number: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5

​1. Write each of the following acronyms in full as used in computing. (2 marks)
(a) CAD
(b) DVD
(c) WORM
​(d) POS

(a) CAD - Computer aided design.
(b) DVD - Digital video disk/digital versatile disk.
(c) WORM - Write once read many.
(d) POS - Point of sale/point of sale terminal.

2. A school keeps student records in a database. The data is coded before entry.
State three reasons why the coding is necessary. (3 marks)

From Topic: Databases
From Subtopic: Creating a Database
Question Level: Form 2

Requirements
Candidates were required state reasons for coding data before entry.
Weaknesses
Most of the candidates did not answer the question as required.
Expected responses

1. Indexing becomes easier.
2. Minimises on memory used.
3. Ease of data entry.
4. Reduces redundancies/double entry.
5. Speedy searches due to shortened comparisons
6. Simplifies validation

Advice to the teachers
The teachers should assist the students to differentiate coding in databases and programming.

​3. Differentiate between Bcc and cc in an email. (2 marks)

From Topic: Internet and E-mail
From Subtopic: email software
Question Level: Form 2

Requirements
Candidates were required to differentiate between Bce and cc in an e-mail.
Weaknesses
Many candidates did not know the meaning of Bcc hence they failed to score in the question.
Expected responses
In cc, all the recipients of the mail are able to see other recipients of the same mail.
Bcc: In Bcc, all recipients of the mail are not able to see other recipients.
Advice to the teachers
Teachers should exhaustively cover the topic on e-mail.

4. State three risks posed by improper cabling in a computer laboratory. (3 marks)

From Topic: Introduction to Computers
From Subtopic: Safety precautions and practices in a computer laboratory
Question Level: Form 1

Expected Responses

1. Risk of electric shocks to the users.
2. Risk of tire outbreaks in the laboratory.
3. Risk of tripping and injuries.
4. Power interruption caused by stumbling on the cables.

Any 3 @ I mark = 3 marks

​5. List two career opportunities directly associated with computer networking. (2 marks)

From Topic: Career Opportunities in ICT
From Subtopic: Description of careers in the field of ICT
Question Level: Form 4

Expected Responses

1. Network administrators
2. Network engineers
3. Network technicians

Any 2 @ I mark = 2 marks

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