Question 1
- Describe data handling.
- Starting from the Save As dialogue box, outline the steps involved in passwording a document in a word processing package.
(ii) Explain two ways of handling data.
(iii) State four factors to consider when handling data electronically.
Observation
(a) Data handling is the process/way of ensuring that data is obtained, stored, archived or disposed in a manner that retains its integrity/in a secured manner.
OR
Data handling is basically the process/way of imputing and storing data in a computer. The Data is then processed into information
(b) There are two ways of handling data which are:
(i) Electronic method: This is the use of electronic systems such as Computers, storage media like video tape, CD, DVD, Memory Cards and other electronic devices to obtain, store, archive, share or dispose data.
(ii) Non-electronic/Manual method: This involves the use of paper files, journals, laboratory notebooks, human effects and other non-electronic means to store or share data.
(c) Factors to be considered when handling data electronically
- Data Integrity
- Regular update of data
- Validation of data
- Security of data/Encryption
- Type of Data
- Type of storage to be used
- Data volume/Size
- Access Control
- Regular Anti-Virus Update
- Limit Physical access to storage media
- Regular Backups
- Ensure Data Recoverability
- Login/Password
- Record Date and Time
- Power Supply
Candidates were expected to answer questions on data handling. However, most of the candidates confused data handling with data processing.