TOPIC: DATA PROCESSING
Definition of Data
Data are raw facts. They are figures, words and symbols that have not been processed or put into meaningful form. Data can be referred to as raw material from which information is produced. Data is the plural of datum.
Types of Data
1. Numeric data: Data consisting of digits and not letters of alphabets or special character. E.g. 0 – 9
2. Alphabetic data: Data consisting of letters and not digits or special characters. A-Z and a-z
3. Alpha-numeric data: Data consisting of digits, alphabets as well special characters. Ussm12, #,!,? 07/01/2019, etc.
Definition of Information
Information is processed data. Information is the result of processing, manipulating and organizing data in a way that adds to the knowledge of the person receiving it.
Data can be processed physically by human beings, example calculation such as addition, division, etc to give it more meaning. Data can also be processed using machines like calculators, computer, etc.
Definition of Data Processing
Data processing is a computer process that converts data into information.
Data Processing Cycle
Data processing cycle is the sequence of stages in processing data. The stages in data processing include:
1. Data gathering or collection
2. Data collation or preparation
3. Input stage
4. Processing stage
5. Storage stage
6. Output stage
Data Gathering: This is the process of collecting data together before processing.
The methods of gathering data include:
a. Interview
b. Questionnaire
c. Record review
d. Observation
Before data are gathered the following must be taken into consideration:
i. The types of data needed
ii. The scope of the data
iii. Purpose of the data
iv. Relevance of the data
v. The plan for gathering
vi. The methods for data collection
Data Collation: Data collation is the assembly of data in standard order
Input Stage: At this stage data are entered into a device like calculator or computer for processing. In computer, data are entered via input devices such as, Keyboard, Mouse, Joy Stick, Light pen, Track Ball, Scanner, Graphic Tablet, Microphone, Magnetic Ink Card Reader (MICR), Optical Character Reader (OCR), Bar Code Reader, Optical Mark Reader (OMR),
Processing Stage: This is the stage whereby data are converted from raw form to information or a useable form. In computer, data are processed in the Central Processing Unit (CPU). The CPU is the brain of the computer. It serves as the main information processor in a computer.
Storage Stage: This is the stage where data are kept after processing. Processed data are stored in the main memory. The main memory is also known as primary or internal memory. There are basically two types of primary memory:
a. RAM (Random Access Memory)
b. ROM (Read Only Memory)
Output Stage: This is the last stage of data processing where the result gathered from processing the data is sent out for the user to see and use. Examples of output device include Monitor, Printer, Projector, Speaker, and Plotter. Output devices such as printers and monitors send the result on paper and screen respectively.
Importance of the Computer as a Tool for processing Data
Computers have an edge over other devices for data processing for data processing for its:
1. Increased Accuracy: Computer as a tool for processing data has the ability to perform rapid and accurate calculation. Computers don’t make mistakes as human do except a wrong instruction is given.
2. Efficient Storage facilities: Computer storage is more efficient such that the quantity of data stored at any point can be accessed anytime. It is reliable in terms of storage
3. Fast Access to Information: Unlike searching for files in cabinets which takes longer time, computer has the ability to supply stored information quickly and easily.
4. Handling Repetitive Tasks: Computer can perform a single task repetitively without being tired unlike you and me.
5. The computers have the ability to work continuously and under conditions not suitable for human beings e.g. very cold or very hot environment.
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