Sub Strand: 1.6 Operating System (OS)

STRAND 1.0: FOUNDATION OF COMPUTER STUDIES

Sub Strand: 1.6 Operating System (OS)

Specific Learning Outcomes

By the end of the sub-strand, the learner should be able to:

a) Describe the functions of an operating system in a computer,

b) classify the operating system according to different attributes,

c) install an operating system in a computer,

d) use an operating system to perform tasks,

e) recognise the importance of operating systems in computing.

Suggested Learning Experiences

The learner is guided to:

• Brainstorm the meaning of the term operating system and give examples (Microsoft Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS),
• Use print or digital media to search for the functions of the operating system and present findings.
• discuss the functions of an operating system (booting, resource management, user interface or command interpreter, memory management, input/output (I/O) management, file management, process management, user management),
• visit a computer user environment to observe and identify available operating systems (Windows operating system, Macintosh Operating System (MacOS), Linux, iOS, Android, Chrome OS),
• Watch a video on how the OS handles errors and interrupts, manages devices and allocates tasks.
• demonstrate the use of OS in error handling, managing input/output and storage devices,
• share experiences on the importance of operating systems in computing during clubs and societies,
• discuss and classify operating systems according to tasks (single-tasking, multitasking), users (single-user, multi-user), and user interface (graphical user interface (GUI), command line, menu-driven),
• discuss the factors to consider when choosing an operating system,
• select the appropriate operating system for a given situation (tasks, users, interface),
• Discuss the procedure to be followed when installing an operating system.
• Install different types of OS and application software in computing devices,
• Use operating systems to manipulate files and folders (create, rename, delete, restore, copy, move, backup) on computers.

Suggested Key Inquiry Question(s)

1. What is the relationship between operating systems and computer hardware?
2. How does an operating system communicate with computer hardware?

Core Competencies to be Developed

Critical Thinking and Problem Solving: The learner analyses situations and selects an appropriate operating system for use in a given situation, such as error handling, managing input/output and storage devices.

Learning to Learn: The learner reflects on their own learning process as they demonstrate the use of operating systems.

Values

Social Justice: The learner fosters fairness and justice among peers as they team up to install operating systems in computers.

Love: The learner portrays a caring attitude toward others during the discussion of the functions of an operating system.

Pertinent and Contemporary Issues (PCIs)

Self-management skills: The learner enhances self-esteem by demonstrating the ability to install different types of operating systems and application software in a virtual environment.