📘 ZIMSEC Computer Science Notes
1. Introduction to Computers
Definition: An electronic device that accepts input, processes it, and produces output.
ICT = Information and Communication Technology.
Components of a Computer System
1. Hardware – physical parts (keyboard, monitor, CPU).
2. Software – programs that run on hardware.
o System Software (Operating System e.g. Windows, Linux).
o Application Software (Word, Excel, games).
3. Peopleware – users.
4. Data – raw facts.
5. Information – processed, meaningful data.
2. Types of Computers
Supercomputers – very fast, scientific research.
Mainframes – handle large data, banks/airlines.
Minicomputers – medium power, small organisations.
Microcomputers – personal computers (laptops, desktops).
Mobile Devices – smartphones, tablets.
3. Data Representation
Computers use binary (0s and 1s).
Bit = smallest unit (0 or 1).
Byte = 8 bits.
Units: KB, MB, GB, TB.
Number Systems: Binary, Decimal, Hexadecimal, Octal.
4. Input, Output and Storage Devices
Input Devices – keyboard, mouse, scanner, microphone.
Output Devices – monitor, printer, speakers.
Storage:
o Primary (RAM, ROM).
o Secondary (Hard Disk, SSD).
o Portable (Flash, CDs, DVDs).
o Cloud storage (Google Drive, OneDrive).
5. Programming Concepts
Algorithm – step-by-step procedure to solve a problem.
Pseudocode – structured English instructions.
Flowchart – diagram showing program flow.
Programming Languages:
o Low-level (Machine, Assembly).
o High-level (Python, Java, C++).
6. Databases
Definition: Organised collection of data.
DBMS (Database Management System) – software to manage databases (MySQL,
Access).
Tables, Records, Fields = main structure.
Advantages: easy updating, reduces duplication, improves accuracy.
7. Networking
Definition: Linking computers to share resources.
Types:
o LAN (Local Area Network).
o WAN (Wide Area Network).
o MAN (Metropolitan Area Network).
Network Devices: Switch, Router, Hub, Modem.
Internet = global network of networks.
Intranet = private network.
8. ICT Applications
Education – e-learning, online exams.
Health – telemedicine, hospital records.
Business – e-commerce, online banking.
Government – e-government services.
Communication – email, video calls, social media.
9. Security and Ethics
Threats: Viruses, malware, hacking, phishing.
Measures: Antivirus software, firewalls, backups, passwords.
Ethical Issues: Privacy, cyberbullying, piracy, digital divide.
10. Software Development Cycle
1. Problem identification.
2. Feasibility study.
3. System analysis.
4. Design.
5. Implementation.
6. Testing.
7. Maintenance.
✅ Summary:
ZIMSEC Computer Science focuses on basic ICT knowledge, problem solving,
programming, networking, data handling, security, and applications of ICT in real life.
