OTHM Level 3 – Computer Systems - Handbook

Computer Systems
Unit Reference Number L/618/6090
Unit Title Computer Systems
Unit Level 3
Number of Credits 10
Total Qualification Time (TQT) 100
Guided Learning Hours (GLH) 40
Mandatory / Optional Mandatory
Sector Subject Area (SSA) 14.1 Foundations for learning and life
Unit Grading Structure Pass / Fail

Unit Aims

The aim of this unit is to introduce learners to the basic hardware and software components that make up computer
systems and for learners to carry out basic installation and configuration. This unit is designed to assist learners to
understand the basic components of computer systems and how they are adapted to individual needs.

Learning Outcomes, Assessment Criteria and Indicative Content

Learning Outcomes Assessment Criteria – Indicative contents
– The learner will: The learner can:
1. Understand the purpose of 1.1 Explain different types of computer systems. • Computer system: types Personal
computer systems. 1.2 Evaluate the role of computer systems in Computer (PC), laptop, netbook,
different environments. smartphone, smartwatch, games consoles,
1.3 Identify a range of computer systems that tablet, server, IoTs
you use. • Environment: Manufacturing, production,
home, office, education, medical,
pharmaceutical, retail, sports etc.
• Personal use
2. Understand computer system 2.1 Discuss the common Hardware components • Hardware components: The Arithmetic and
components. of a computer system Logic Unit; ALU, Control Unit and Registers
2.2 Discuss the common Software components (Program Counter; PC, Accumulator; ACC,
of a
 computer system Memory Address Register; MAR, Memory
2.3 Evaluate the differences between open Data
source and closed source software. Register; MDR, Current Instruction Register;
CIR). Storage devices: hard disk drive,
ROM, flash drive, DVD/ Blu-ray Disc (BD).
Input devices: touch screen, graphics tablet,
gaming controller, microphone, mouse,
keyboard.
Output devices: printer, monitor, sound.
Computer network connectivity: 3G,
Wireless, Bluetooth, NIC.
• Software components: System software,
Applications software, Software utilities.
• Open source vs closed source
Pricing, availability, scope of engagement,
structures, codes, platforms.
3. Be able to configure computer 3.1 Analyse different operating systems and • Operating systems: Microsoft Windows
systems. their suitability in managing resources in a (like
professional environment. Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7,
3.2 Describe the characteristics of different Windows
styles of computer system users. Vista, and Windows XP), Apple's macOS
3.3 Evaluate suitable components to meet user • (formerly OS X), Chrome OS, Linux, Unix,
requirements within a professional Ubuntu etc.
environment. System users: describe the characteristics
3.4 Configure a computer system for a given
of different styles of user interface,
user requirement.
commandbased, forms, dialogue, natural
language, wimp interfaces (windows, icons,
menus, pointer), and their appropriate uses.
• Requirements: users eg office, home; tasks
eg data recording, photo/video editing,
media.
• Home, Business, Networking, Real-time,
Communication.
Systems software: eg operating systems,
systems software tools, diagnostic tools, file
managers, disk utilities, back up,
synchronisation; network connections eg
workgroups, email, ftp.
Applications software: office applications
software eg word processing, spreadsheet,
presentation, database, graphics, web browser,
email client
 Assessment
To achieve a ‘pass’ for this unit, learners must provide evidence to demonstrate that they have fulfilled all the learning
outcomes and meet the standards specified by all assessment criteria.
Learning Outcomes to be met Assessment criteria to be covered Type of assessment Word count (approx.
length)
All 1 to 3 All AC under LO 1 to 3 Coursework 3000 words

Indicative Reading list

• Nisan, N. (2020). The Elements of Computing Systems : building a modern computer from first principles. MIT
Press.
• Bryant, R.E. and O’Hallaron, D.R. (2016). Computer systems : a programmer’s perspective. Boston: Pearson.