ICT Notes (WJEC)

Computer Assisted Learning

• Software that is run on computers to help people learn about a particular subject
• Use text, graphics, videos, animation, sound, hyperlinks and self-assessment
• Internet bases or made on multimedia programs (powerpoint)

Advantages

• Can be updated easily + don't become outdated like textbooks
• Textbooks can be lost, so after initial set-up CAL saves on cost
• Can be accessed out of school
• More interesting for students
• No teacher is needed for the course to progress
• Pupils can work at their own pace and repeat topics
• Distance learning - if a pupil is ill/disabled/far away they can access information online

Disadvantages

• Internet sites are not always factually accurate
• Pupils can get distracted
• Networks can go down
• Teachers will be less aware of a struggling student
• Not as much student/teacher interaction
• Teachers have to get to grips with the software
• Less personal so some students may struggle if they need specialised help

Expert Systems

• Computer system simulating the knowledge and expertise of a human expert
• There to help doctors, not replace them

Components

• Knowledge base - large database of knowledge which can be interrogated
• User interface
• Inference Engine with which the machine can make deductions and diagnose patients

Advantages

• Knowledge in the system can be far more than any one person could ever know
• Should never make mistakes or get facts wrong
• Won't retire or get ill
• Less embarrassing for patients to talk to a computer

Disadvantages

• No personal touch
• Not cheap, need to be installed
• …