Introduction to Systems

Students must be able to describe the four main components that make up a system (manual and direct data entry input devices, output devices, storage devices and processors), and the associated algorithms that define the behaviour of a given system

There are four main components that make up a computer system:

1. Input devices: These are devices that are used to input data and instructions into the system. Examples of input devices include keyboards, mice, touchscreens, and scanners.
2. Output devices: These are devices that are used to display or print the results of the system's processing. Examples of output devices include monitors, printers, and speakers.
3. Storage devices: These are devices that are used to store data and instructions for later use. Examples of storage devices include hard drives, solid state drives, and USB drives.
4. Processors: These are the "brain" of the system, responsible for executing instructions and performing calculations. Processors can be found in a variety of devices, including computers, smartphones, and tablets.

Algorithms are sets of instructions that define the behavior of a system. They can be used to solve problems, process data, or perform other tasks. Algorithms are usually written in a programming language and can be executed by a processor. Different systems may use different algorithms to achieve their desired behavior. For example, a search engine may use an algorithm to rank search results based on relevance, while a weather forecasting system may use an algorithm to predict future weather patterns based on past data.

Students must be able to describe and analyse the user experience for a given system.

The user experience (UX) of a system refers to how easy or difficult it is for users to interact with the system and achieve their desired outcomes. A good UX is important because it can help to increase user satisfaction, productivity, and loyalty.

To describe and analyze the UX for a given system, you can consider the following factors:

1. Ease of use: Is the system easy for users to understand and use, or is it confusing or difficult?
2. Efficiency: Can users accomplish their tasks quickly and easily, or do they encounter unnecessary steps or delays?
3. Learnability: Is it easy for users to learn how to use the system, or do they need extensive training or support?
4. Satisfaction: Do users enjoy using the system, or do they find it frustrating or unpleasant?
5. Error recovery: How easy is it for users to correct mistakes or errors that they encounter while using the system?

You can gather information about the UX of a system by observing users as they interact with the system, asking them for feedback, and analyzing metrics such as the number of errors or the time it takes to complete tasks. This information can help you to identify any problems with the UX and suggest ways to improve it.

Students must be able to analyse and discuss the developments in hardware and software that expose new opportunities that could in turn lead to emergent systems.

There have been many developments in hardware and software that have exposed new opportunities for emergent systems. Some examples of these developments include:

1. The proliferation of connected devices: The Internet of Things (IoT) has led to a proliferation of connected devices, such as smart home appliances, wearable technology, and industrial sensors. These devices generate vast amounts of data and can be connected to each other and to the internet, enabling new types of emergent systems that can sense, analyze, and act on the data they collect.
2. The rise of artificial intelligence: The advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, such as machine learning and natural language processing, has opened up new opportunities for emergent systems that can learn from data and adapt their behavior based on the outcomes they observe.
3. The growth of cloud computing: Cloud computing has made it easier for organizations to access and use computing resources on demand, enabling them to build and deploy emergent systems more quickly and flexibly.
4. The development of blockchain: Blockchain is a distributed ledger technology that allows multiple parties to securely and transparently record and verify transactions without the need for a central authority. This has the potential to enable new types of emergent systems that can facilitate trust and cooperation between parties in a decentralized way.

These developments in hardware and software have the potential to create new opportunities for emergent systems in a variety of sectors, including healthcare, finance, transportation, and manufacturing.

Give a detailed account or picture of a situation, event, pattern or process.

Give the precise meaning of a word, phrase, concept or physical quantity.

Give a specific name, value or other brief answer without explanation or calculation.

Give an expected result of an upcoming action or event.

Break down in order to bring out the essential elements or structure. To identify parts and relationships, and to interpret information to reach conclusions.

Break down in order to bring out the essential elements or structure. To identify parts and relationships, and to interpret information to reach conclusions.

A unit of abstract mathematical system subject to the laws of arithmetic.

Provide an answer from a number of possibilities. Recognize and state briefly a distinguishing fact or feature.

Propose a solution, hypothesis or other possible answer.

Offer a considered and balanced review that includes a range of arguments, factors or hypotheses. Opinions or conclusions should be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.