GNVQ Advanced IT - Unit 2

Model data

Requires students to construct two computer models, one of which must be a predictive model, and to undertake a number of 'what-if' queries

1. explain the purposes of different computer models.
2. specify data parameters and rules of operation of modelling problems
3. construct computer models
4. undertake 'what-if' queries and produce reports
5. review the effectiveness of the model and suggest improvements

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Purposes of computer models: compress time, cost saving, safety, convenience, hypothesis testing

Computer models: simulation, prediction, gaming, three-dimensional representation

Data parameters: input values, constraints, variables (physical response time, speed, cost, time, dimension, scale, position), calculations using operators (arithmetic, relational, logical)

Rules of operation: formula, cell references (absolute, relative), results of actions, relationships, effect of variable changes, method of operation, assumptions made, input methods.

Reports: numerical analysis sheet, abstracts, charts, pictorial views.

Effectiveness: comparative cost, speed of response, accuracy, comparison with alternatives, efficiency.

Suggestion for improvement:  modifications to rules of operation, changes in data parameters

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Two computer models constructed by the student, one of which must be a predictive model.
 

Computer outputs relating to the models, showing that the student has:

• undertaken at least three 'what-if' queries
• tested the system for effectiveness, covering the range.

• explaining the purposes of the computer models in general terms, covering the range.
• specifying three data parameters and four rules of operation of the two modelling problems
• reviewing the effectiveness of the model and suggesting improvements.

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Compress time: (PC1 range for example forecasting the results of inflation, breeding results of insects or animals, or the weather.)

Cost saving (PC1 range) for example making scale models or compressing a time span, or where destructive testing is the only alternative.

Safety (PC1 range) using computer models to test systems without danger, eg carrying out structural tests by computer rather than using the real structure.

Hypothesis testing (PC1 range) using computer models such as spreadsheets to test possible hypotheses, eg the financial breakeven points for a business such as an airline or hotel, or effects of changes in fuel consumption.

Simulation (PC1 and PC3 range) a software representation of a real situation or system which can be used for analysis or training, eg pilot training or reproducing a process for testing purposes.

Gaming (PC1 and PC3 range) for example a model of a forest where treasure must be found.

Three-dimensional representation (PC1 and PC3 range) using computerised drawing software to present a model for viewing from any viewpoint, eg presenting a model of a new building and other nearby existing  buildings to view its impact on the environment

Modelling problems (PC2) for example breakeven analysis or long-term weather forecasting (Predictive), throwing a dice or driving a car (simulation), computer games requiring rules (Gaming, can be used in business for staff/management training particularly in personnel and customer service areas), shade cast from buildings (three-dimensional, also in garden planning where immature or sun loving shrubs can be tested for correct planting positions both in the short and the long term.

Relational operators (PC2 range) eg.  =, <, >, IF.

Logical operators (PC2 range) eg. AND, OR, NOT

Cell references (modelling) (PC2 range) spreadsheet cells can be given either 'relative' or 'absolute' cell references

'What-if' queries (PC4) this term is often used in spreadsheets to refer to hypothesis testing.
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