WK 1 Introduction - To - Data - Processing
WK 1 Introduction - To - Data - Processing
CLASS: SS 1
DATE:
REFERENCES
WEEK ONE
In this chapter, you shall learn about what is data and information; the difference between data and
information. Attempt to distinguish between manual and electronic data processing.
DEFINITION OF DATA
The term data means any basic fact which may be input to some processing system. A processing system is
one where computations, comparisons and general manipulation of data are done. The processing may be
people or machine e.g the computer.
Information on the other hand, is the end – result of a processing system. The information is needed by
management for decision making. The relationship between data and information is shown in the diagram
below:
Data processing is the task of using a collection of basic facts to produce information, usually it has no value
in itself until it is subjected to analysis, validations and comparisons with other data produce result
(information), for example a collection of weights of individuals do not turn useful information for decision
making.
However when the set of data is processed such as searching for individual with a maximum or minimum
weight or the weight of all concerned in the study, information is produced.
Management can decide on the basis of each information to assign special duties to the fellow with the
maximum or minimum weight. Other use could be made on such information depending upon the situation
prevailing on the organization and their special needs.
Therefore, data processing is an operation on computer data which involves the entering, sorting, updating
and retrieving of information using computer.
PROPERTIES OF DATA
1. Collected/Captured
2. Prepared
3. Presented
4. Precise
5. Complete
6. Accurate
7. Purposeful
8. Assigned
The data processing cycle describes the stages of data processing. It involves the following stages:
Data gathering
Data collation
Input stage
Processing stage
Storage stage
Output stage
INPUT PROCESSINGOUTPUT
Data is often required for various purposes. Even the same item of data may be used in a great variety of
ways depending upon the user’s objectives.
Most data processing work may be viewed as consisting of data, processor and output. Usually, storage also
features since both data and program instructions need to be stored.
EVALUATION
INPUT ACTIVITY
1. COLLECTION: involves gathering data from various sources and assembling it at one location.
2. VERIFICATION/VALIDATION: after data have been gathered, its accuracy and completeness must be
checked. This is an important step that helps to eliminate the possibility of Garbage-In – Garbage-
out(GIGO)
3. CODE: data must be converted into machine readable form so that it can be entered into the processing
system. Entering data via a computer terminal and keyboard is one example of coding.
PROCESSING ACTIVITY
OUTPUT ACTIVITY
The art of management is increasing as our society becomes more competitive and more technologically
advance. The volume of data being generated is correspondingly increasing and becoming unmanageable. On
the other hand, the need to make information available, timely and accurately is becoming more vital in the
competitive world in which we have found ourselves. It is when a large volume of data is required to be
processed speedily and accurately that Data Processing becomes indispensable.
GENERAL EVALUATION
READING ASSIGNMENT
Data Processing For Senior Secondary School ByHiit.
WEEKEND ASSIGNMENT
1. data and information B. data processing C. decision making D. none of the above
1. The major reason for data processing is A. decision making B. conflict promotion
THEORY