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INFORMATION AND

COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY

 

     

V. Ryan © 2001-09

In Technology we use a variety of Information Technology skills. The software used includes: spreadsheets, databases, word-processing, graphics, desk top publishing (DPT), CD-ROM /DVD work and research using the internet. Technology also introduces pupils to control technology and data-logging. If you are taking the Systems course you must cover all aspects of Information Technology. The other Technology courses require pupils to use a slightly more limited range of I.C.T. skills. However, I.C.T. is very important for a successful project. Below is a table which describes the main types of software and how they can be used to help you in your work.

     
 
     

WORD PROCESSING

Word processing software can be used to produce a report or an evaluation. Some pupils use this type of software to write the design problem and brief. Good word-processing software will allow spell checking and even a grammar check. (SOFTWARE - MS WORD, WORD PERFECT).

DATABASE

A database will be useful if you want to look up the details of materials. A materials database can be loaded and interrogated. Pupils often develop their own database and show off their I.T. skills by searching the database for materials with specific properties. A database can hold any data on any subject. (SOFTWARE - MS ACCESS).

SPREADSHEETS

Spreadsheets are useful if you are dealing with statistics which require calculations and formulas. Pupils often set up their own spreadsheet to calculate costs and V.A.T. Spreadsheets are especially useful if you are working with calculations. (SOFTWARE - EXCEL, MULTIPLAN, SUPER CALC).
 

CONTROL

Control software allows a pupil to control the movement of a small robotic device. A small program is written to control when motors are turned on or off and in so doing the robotic device can be programmed to follow a path. Robotic devices can be composed of one motor or several and include sensors and switches.

GRAPHICS

General graphics software allows a pupil to draw complicated shapes and import clip art (pictures). It is also possible to manipulate text so that a sentence may flow around an object. Colours can be changed and a range of effects achieved. (SOFTWARE - COREL DRAW, MICROSOFT DRAW, ADOBE ILLUSTRATOR).

C.A.D.

This is specific software which allows a pupil to construct an engineering style drawing - front, side and plan views with dimensions. CAD stands for Computer Aided Design. (SOFTWARE - GOOGLE SKETCHUP, pro/DESKTOP®, AUTOCAD )

C.A.M.

This software usually comes with a machine such as a CNC lathe, miller OR  router which is controlled by the software. The entire system tends to be extremely expensive (a lathe and computer system with software will cost in excess of £10 000). CAM stands for ‘Computer Aided Manufacture’.

D.T.P.

This information sheet was produced on a Desk Top Publisher (DTP). This type of software allows a pupil to write, import pictures, produce fancy titles and has limited drawing features. DTP software is very useful and is probably the most popular of all software. (SOFTWARE - MICROSOFT PUBLISHER, VENTURA PUBLISHER, ADOBE PAGEMAKER).

 

 

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