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INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY

Paper 1

2 ^𝟏 HOURS

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                                            YAAKA EXAMINATIONS

Uganda Certificate Of Education INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY

Paper 1

TIME: 2 hours 30 minutes

INSTRUCTIONS TO CANDIDATES

• This paper consists of two sections; A and B.
• It has five examination items. Section A has one compulsory item.
• Section B has two parts; I and II. Answer one item from each part.
• Answer three examination items in all.

Any additional item(s) answered will not be scored.

• All answers must be written in the answer booklet(s) provided

SECTION A

Answer all items in this section.

Item 1

The students of Kyebando High School planned a visit to Uganda’s National Data Centre, a local radio station, and a software development company to explore various applications of ICT in real-world settings. However, due to logistical issues and delays, they were only able to visit the National Data Centre. The trip was cut short, and the students expressed disappointment as they could not achieve the learning objectives.

Tasks:

(a).  As an ICT consultant, address the students on how they can maximize the learning outcomes from the visited site and understand ICT integration in similar contexts.

(b). Provide recommendations on how such trips can be better planned in the future to avoid similar disappointments.

(c). Discuss safety measures for handling ICT equipment during such field trips.

SECTION B

PART I – Answer one item from this part.

Item 2

A new initiative by the Ministry of Education is introducing tablets in selected rural schools in Northern Uganda to enhance digital literacy. Unfortunately, most teachers are unfamiliar with the use of these devices and have shown reluctance to incorporate them into their teaching methods.

Tasks:

(a). Prepare a training outline that would help the teachers understand the basic use of tablets in teaching, focusing on essential applications and settings.

(b). Describe the steps teachers should take to integrate these devices into their daily teaching routine.

(c). Highlight any challenges that might arise and suggest possible solutions.

Item 3

Mr. Isaac, the ICT coordinator at Katwe Technical School, has been tasked to set up a computer lab using donated computers. However, he is concerned about the safety, security, and maintenance of the equipment due to the high risk of power surges and inadequate ventilation.

Tasks:

(a). Propose a plan to set up the lab that includes considerations for equipment safety, power management, and proper ventilation.

(b). Provide a maintenance schedule for the ICT equipment that Mr. Isaac can implement to ensure longevity and optimal performance.

(c). Suggest ways to train students on responsible use and care of the equipment.

PART II – Answer one item from this part.

Item 4

Sandra, a student at Kireka High School, is interested in pursuing a career in digital marketing. She has heard about various tools and platforms but feels overwhelmed by the vast array of options. She is particularly interested in understanding how social media can be effectively used to promote products and engage audiences.

Tasks:

(a). Create a guide that lists essential digital marketing tools and platforms that Sandra should familiarize herself with, including their uses.

(b). Explain how social media analytics can help her track her marketing performance and make data-driven decisions.

(c). Discuss potential risks associated with digital marketing and ways to mitigate them.

Item 5

The Government of Uganda has launched an e-learning platform to facilitate distance education for students affected by school closures. However, many students, particularly in rural areas, struggle with limited internet access and digital literacy challenges.

Tasks:

(a). Suggest practical strategies to improve students’ access to the e-learning platform, considering the constraints of rural areas.

(b). Discuss the role of community-based ICT centers in supporting students who cannot access the platform from home.

(c). Outline measures to enhance digital literacy among students to ensure they can effectively engage with the e-learning tools provided.

                                                                                     END

MARKING TO THE ABOVE TASKS

SECTION A

Item 1:

1. Maximizing Learning Outcomes from the National Data Centre Visit:
   • Explanation: Students should focus on understanding the functions of the National Data Centre, such as data management, cloud computing, and the importance of cybersecurity in safeguarding information.
   • Examples: After the visit, students can explore how data centers support everyday technologies like social media, online banking, and government services.
2. Recommendations for Better Planning of Future Trips:
   • Explanation: Proper planning and backup options can help mitigate the impact of unexpected challenges.
   • Examples: Schools should create a detailed itinerary with estimated times and emergency contacts. For instance, planning multiple visits in nearby locations ensures that students can visit an alternative site if delays occur.
3. Safety Measures for Handling ICT Equipment:
   • Explanation: Safety measures are critical to prevent accidents, damage, and data loss when handling ICT equipment.
   • Examples: Use padded cases for laptops, employ surge protectors to safeguard against electrical spikes, and ensure proper handling training for students.

SECTION B

Item 2:

1. Training Outline for Teachers Using Tablets:
   • Explanation: A structured training outline helps teachers gain confidence in using tablets as educational tools.
   • Examples:
     • Session 1: Introduction to Tablet Hardware – Understanding ports, buttons, and how to turn the device on and off.
     • Session 2: Key Applications – Learning to use educational apps such as Khan Academy or Google Classroom.
     • Session 3: Classroom Management – Using tablets for student assessments and interactive lessons.
2. Steps for Integrating Tablets into Teaching:
   • Explanation: Teachers should start small, integrating tablets gradually into their teaching methods.
   • Examples: Begin with attendance apps or interactive polls to gauge student understanding, then progress to multimedia presentations.
3. Challenges and Solutions:
   • Explanation: Identifying potential challenges helps in creating strategies to address them effectively.

Examples:

3. Challenge: Internet connectivity issues.
4. Solution: Use offline apps like Khan Academy’s downloadable lessons to keep teaching without needing internet access.

Item 3:

1. Plan for Setting Up a Computer Lab:
   • Explanation: A well-thought-out plan is necessary for efficient, safe, and secure setup of computer labs.
   • Examples:
     • Safety: Install voltage regulators to protect against power surges.
     • Layout: Arrange computers with ample spacing for ventilation and easy access.
     • Security: Implement locks on computers and ensure the lab is monitored with security cameras.
2. Maintenance Schedule:
   • Explanation: Regular maintenance extends the lifespan of ICT equipment and ensures optimal performance.
   • Examples:
     • Daily Tasks: Clean screens and keyboards, ensure all devices are powered off properly.
     • Weekly Tasks: Run software updates and backup critical data.
     • Monthly Tasks: Perform hardware checks and clean internal components like fans to prevent overheating.
3. Training Students on Responsible Use:
   • Explanation: Educating students on proper usage helps prevent misuse and promotes responsibility.
   • Examples: Teach students not to eat or drink near the equipment, handle peripherals carefully, and report any malfunctions immediately.

PART II

Item 4:

1. Guide to Digital Marketing Tools and Platforms:
   • Explanation: Understanding different tools helps Sandra effectively market products and engage with audiences.
   • Examples:
     • Hootsuite: For managing social media accounts and scheduling posts.
     • Google Analytics: For tracking website traffic and user behavior.
     • Canva: For creating visually appealing social media graphics without advanced design skills.
2. Using Social Media Analytics:
   • Explanation: Analytics provide insights into how marketing strategies are performing and what adjustments need to be made.
   • Examples: Track engagement metrics like comments, shares, and click-through rates to determine which content resonates most with your audience.
3. Potential Risks and Mitigations in Digital Marketing:
   • Explanation: Awareness of risks ensures marketers can take steps to protect their brand and audience.
   • Examples:
     • Risk: Cyberattacks on social media accounts.
     • Mitigation: Use strong passwords, enable two-factor authentication, and regularly update security settings.

Item 5:

1. Strategies to Improve Access to E-Learning:
   • Explanation: Accessibility strategies ensure that all students, even in rural areas, can benefit from e-learning platforms.
   • Examples: Provide offline versions of course materials or distribute content on USB drives for students without internet access.
2. Role of ICT Centers:
   • Explanation: Community ICT centers can act as hubs for students who lack home access to technology.
   • Examples: Offer free internet access, printing services, and tutorial sessions to help students understand the platform.
3. Enhancing Digital Literacy:
   • Explanation: Digital literacy is essential for students to engage effectively with modern e-learning tools.
   • Examples: Organize workshops on basic computer skills, how to navigate e-learning platforms, and best practices for online safety.