SECTION B - Short answer questions

Instructions for Section B

Answer all questions in the spaces provided.

Question 1

Sue Sands Super Store has an extensive database of all items that it sells. One of the files in the database uses 3.5 GB (gigabytes) of hard disk space. A new procedure requires individual records from this file to be displayed on the screen. Two alternative methods for obtaining the data have been suggested.

This question was poorly done. The majority of students were able to identify one disadvantage, but most were unable to articulate how the file could be organised to make it more efficient.

a. State one disadvantage of method 1.

It would consume most, if not all of the computer's RAM and severely degrade system performance.

1 mark

This question required students to discuss the use of RAM when loading ‘the whole file into memory’, such as the disadvantage of needing a large amount of RAM for this method.

b. State one disadvantage of method 2.

It would take more time to access each record from secondary storage.

1 mark

Students needed to make a comment about how slow it would be obtaining ‘the record from the file each time’.

c. i.  Outline how the file could be organised to make method 2 more efficient.

Store the records in a random access file.

Students were expected to be able to identify a random access file as the more efficient way the file could be organised.

ii.  Explain why this file organisation will be more efficient.

Because the records are fixed-length, it's possible to locate the exact starting point of a record mathematically and jump to that spot instantly and load the record. It avoids the drawback of sequential files in which you have to scroll through all the intervening records to reach the one you need.

1 + 1=2 marks

The following is an example of a high-scoring response:
A random access file means that you can go directly to a specific record without having to look at all the records starting with the first file each time you need to search for a file.

Average mark: 1.2 out of 4

Question 2

Threats to computer systems come in many forms.
a.  Explain the key difference between the way viruses and trojans get into a computer system.

Viruses enter a system attached to other files (not email attachments, virus code is injected into host files, particularly executable files and travels inside the host.)

Trojans are self-contained malware that are usually downloaded and opened by users who are deceived or tricked into thinking it is something good.

2 marks

While viruses come attached to emails, files and programs, and install themselves into computer systems, a user installs a trojan by installing the program containing the trojan. The following is an example of a high-scoring response. Trojans usually appear as something positive like an email from a friend, but when the email is opened the Trojan software is installed on your computer. Viruses may be received through infected USBs, going onto certain bad websites are installed automatically into your machine usually without your knowledge.

b.  Explain the key difference between the purpose of spyware and the purpose of viruses.

Spyware is designed to monitor a system and its users and return information to the spyware's controller. Monitoring can include keystrokes, including passwords and bank account data (via keyloggers), websites visited, work rate etc.

Viruses have a variety of purposes including causing data loss, annoying people, showing off, or just getting their virus to propagate widely. Viruses yield no real or direct benefit to their authors.

2 marks

The purpose of a virus is to copy itself to as many other computers as possible and to generally cause disruptions.
However, spyware is installed to transmit information about the use of the computer to an outside source.
The following is an example of a high-scoring response.
Spyware – designed to spy on the actions on the computer of the user and send this data back to the creator of the code. Viruses
are designed to destroy data and in the process destroy the system (destructive code) through malicious code.

It was evident that some students did not read each question carefully as they gave generic definitions of the words ‘viruses’, ‘spyware’ and ‘trojans’ instead of focusing on the key words in each question: ‘get into a computer system’ (2a.) and ‘the purpose of’ (2b.).

Average 2.3 / 4

Question 3 (2011-2014 - skip a and b - the global envirionment stuff not in the study design)

Novorodsky Dancing Shoes (NDS) manufactures custom-made dancing shoes in its small Sydney factory. Its information system consists of a database containing product and customer information. The company has a long list of regular customers and it relies on its excellent reputation to get new sales. About 50% of its orders come from Sydney, the rest from other parts of Australia. They are usually made over the phone although some are made by fax or letter. It usually takes about a month to fill an order.
The owner of NDS has decided that it is time for her company to have a presence on the World Wide Web. She would like a website that includes an online ordering page. It will link to NDS's existing database.

a.  In addition to allowing customers to order dancing shoes, state two other purposes NDS might have in putting its information system into a global environment.

- advertising the company globally

- demonstrating and promoting their product line to increase sales

- remote database access by authorised employees?

2 marks

Examples of appropriate responses included:
• trading 24/7
• access to global clientele
• wider audience
• accurate, up-to-date advertising.

b. In addition to security concerns, explain one disadvantage for NDS in putting its information system into a global environment.

It would involve a great change to their practices to support overseas customers. Their entire business model would have to be radically changed. It would incur great cost and effort.

2 marks

Some students did not read this question carefully and wrote a response regarding security; for example, hackers. The following is an example of a high-scoring response. It may be difficult for them to communicate with and provide support to, overseas customers. If an issue arises it may be difficult to handle.

c. The online ordering page of the website will require a program that allows the user to look at a catalogue of products and place an order. NDS can either buy an existing web-based ordering program or hire a programmer to write its ordering program,

i.  State one advantage of buying an existing program.

Quicker.

Cheaper.

Support from other users.

ii.  State one advantage of hiring a programmer to write NDS's own program.

It can be customised to perfectly fit NDS's particular functionality needs.

1 + 1=2 marks

Most students were able to indicate that advantages of buying an existing program included the ability for the program to be used immediately, the probability of reduced cost (3ci.), and that hiring a programmer allowed for a more tailored approach to the client’s needs (3cii.).

Overall, this question was handled reasonably well by students; however, some students misread parts of the question.

Average 4.2 / 6

Question 4 (2011-2014 - SDLC is now PSM. Logical design is not mentioned in the design.)

The main result of the analysis phase of the Systems Development Life Cycle (SDLC) is the logical design of a new or modified information system. The main result of the design phase of the SDLC is the physical design of a new or modified system.

a.  Describe the main difference between the logical design and the physical design of a new system.

A logical design lays down the desired functionality of the new system but does not try to explain how that functionality will be achieved.

2 marks

The main difference is that the logical design describes what the new system has to do, not how to do it. The physical design specifies the technical components that will be used to create the new system.

b.  State one type of tool that can be used to represent the physical design of a new system.

• IPO chart.
• Site map.
• Pseudocode.
• Flowchart, NS chart.
• Layout diagrams, interface mockups
• Prototyping
• DFDs
• Storyboards
• Structure charts
• etc

Students just need to avoid listing logical design tools that are used during analysis, such as use-case diagrams, decision trees, checklists, org charts and context diagrams.

1 mark

There are a range of tools that could be used to represent the physical design; for example, system flowchart, structure chart and network diagram.

Average 0.9 / 3

Total 17 marks (in future, section B will be worth an even 20 marks - at last!)

Many students were unable to provide adequate responses to these questions.

END OF SECTION B

Case study

Country hospitals are finding it difficult to employ specialist doctors. To deal with the problems caused by this, it was suggested that doctors in country hospitals be put in touch with specialists in Melbourne via the Internet. The government decided to set up a project to create the suggested system naming it RuraLink.
Percy Farmer has been hired to manage the RuraLink system. He was told that RuraLink must allow

Percy drew this diagram (Figure 1) to help him understand what was required.

After some investigation Percy found that all country hospitals have a computer-based administration system. These systems are usually small local area networks with workstations located in the administration area, at each ward desk, and in the emergency department, as shown in Figure 2. To keep costs to a minimum Percy has decided that RuraLink should use as much of the existing country hospital's system as possible.

Percy's investigations have also found that it would be better if the equipment came to the patients rather than having the patients moved to the equipment. He drew a diagram showing how a 'telemedicine' trolley might be used to bring the equipment to the patients. It is shown in Figure 3.

The computer on the telemedicine trolley will connect to a country hospital's network and use its Internet connection to Melbourne.

End of case study insert for section C

SECTION C - Case study

Question 1 (2011-2014 - skip b. Causes of change are not in the new study design)

At the beginning of his analysis, Percy wants to make sure that he understands why RuraLink is being created.
a.  State the government's main reason for the creation of RuraLink.

To give country hospitals access to specialist doctors.

1 mark

The government’s main reason for the creation of RuraLink is to try to overcome the issues created by the shortage of specialist doctors in country areas. Many students were able to provide the appropriate response. However, a number of students incorrectly referred to the solution that was put in place – to put rural hospitals in touch with specialists in the city.

I'd still argue about that one. It's not easy to explain, but I'm not happy with the examiners' hair-splitting. The original problem, according to the case study, was employing specialist doctors. The resultant problems of that led to the suggestion to use the internet. So the answer should be "To give country hospitals access to specialist doctors", not to address the consequence issues.

State average 0.5 / 1

b.  Is this a technical, economic or social factor that is prompting change?

Social. It's to make people's health and lives better.

There are no technological factors promoting the change.
While Percy is keeping the bush hospitals' systems to reduce costs, money is not the driving force behind this new system.

1 mark

This change is prompted by a social factor. Many students were able to answer this question correctly.

State average: 0.7 / 1

Question 2

After completing his analysis Percy draws a context diagram for the new RuraLink system. Complete his context diagram by filling in the boxes.

4 marks

This had me scratching my head. All 4 boxes are obviously external entities, but sorting out which was which was a pain. But a couple of people have pointed out that if you look again at the clues in the 4 dotpoints, things become clearer. The bold+italics indicate the corresponding text in the context diagram.

1. the specialists in Melbourne to obtain medical data about patients directly from equipment...
2. the specialists to access patient records in the country hospital databases
3. doctors and nurses at the country hospitals to send any measurements or observations they make; for example patients' weight or a description of injuries
4. the specialists in Melbourne to provide immediate advice to the country hospital doctors and nurses.

Students should be familiar with Data Flow Diagrams and be able to complete them accurately. However, only a small number of students were able to correctly complete the diagram and many students repeated entities.

But it's a context diagram, not a DFD!

State Average: 2.4 / 4

Question 3

During his investigation Percy found that a single consultation with a patient could create about 1 GB (gigabyte) of data. He also found that in 0.1 % of cases complications can arise up to five years after the consultation. Many doctors told him that it would be an advantage if they could review a patient's video and other data again.

a.  Assuming 100 consultations occur across the state on any day, and given that there are 365 days in a year, how much data will need to be stored for five years (ignoring leap years)?

100 consultations * 365 days * 1GB * 5 years = 182,500 GB = 182.5 Terabytes

Will students get marks for answering in Gigabtytes, or will the examiners expect answers to be in Terabytes?

1 mark

182,500GB of data would need to be stored for five years, ie. 100 x 365 x 5 Most students were able to complete the required calculation for five years of data storage. Many students showed their working; however, this was not required.

State average: 0.7 / 1

Percy has three possible solutions for storing this data.

Solution A: Store all the patient data in the RuraLink system for five years.
Solution B: Store only the data for the 0.1% of cases the doctors wish to review.
Solution C: Store the data onto a DVD and give it to the patients to keep.

b.  Select one solution and justify why you think this would be the best choice for RuraLink.

Solution A

Justification (9 lines provided)

For option B. How can they know now which 0.1% of cases will need to be reviewed in the future?
For option C, you'd only get 4 or 5 consultations on a DVD, and the patient is likely to lose or damage the DVD if they hold onto it.

With option A, the data is all in one place, and can be accessed instantly when needed from any computer within the system.

3 marks - state average 1.8

Not a very challenging question, I thought. The "bad guy" options were too blatantly evil - black hats and scars all over.

Solution A or C was possible. Solution B was impractical as there was no way of determining which 0.1 per cent of cases to keep. Many students handled this ‘select and justify’ question well.
When responding to this type of question, students should remember to discuss why their selection is the ‘best’ and also discuss why the alternatives are not the ‘best’. A number of students did not indicate why the alternatives were inappropriate.

Question 4

One of RuraLink's specifications is that a specialist in Melbourne can access patient records stored in a country hospital's database. Patients, however, may have data about them stored at more than one hospital. So that RuraLink can provide data to the specialist from any hospital database, the patients' Medicare numbers will be used as a link between databases.

Percy is writing the program specification. For the section dealing with entry of the Medicare number he writes

If the user makes a mistake entering the Medicare number, the program has to provide as much information as possible about what is wrong. Therefore include these validation tests.
Length - to make sure that the correct number of characters has been entered
Existence - to make sure that the number entered exists on Medicare's database
Null - to make sure something has been entered
Type - to make sure that only numeric characters have been entered

Note: These tests must be performed in the most effective order.

a. Place these validation tests in the most effective order.

SEE BELOW

1 mark - state average 0.8

I've started getting a bee in my bonnet (or a terrier in my trousers) about this question.

Hmm. What is "effective" about the order? It must relate to how well it does the job of finding invalid numbers.

But if all 4 tests are going to be conducted, any order of the 4 tests will yield exactly the same results.

It might be different if we wanted to find invalid numbers soonest, or with the minimum number of tests, but they are efficiency criteria, not effectiveness.

I'm seriously starting to believe that this is a Bull Mastiff of a question... All orders must be equally effective.

I can usually work out what the examiners were probably trying to get at, but this one has me completely baffled (like multichoice Q3 on the ITA paper).  I have no idea whatsoever of what knowledge the examiners are hoping I will show.

So, can anyone please tell me:

1. how one order can be more effective than another.
2. what order is most effective, and why the reverse order would be less effective!

Growl.

Either of:
• Null, Length, Type, Existence
• Null, Type, Length, Existence.
Students were generally able to put the validations tests listed in an appropriate order.

b. Give three reasons why this order is the most effective way of doing these validation tests.

Reason 1

Reason 2

Reason 3

3 marks - average 1.9

Some students had difficulty giving reasons why their nominated order was the most effective. Students were expected to have knowledge of validation techniques, including existence checking, range checking and type checking for Unit 4, Outcome 1.
The following is an example of a high-scoring response.
Reason 1 A Null test must come first, as none of the other test can be done if nothing has been entered.
Reason 2 The Existence test should come last, as the input will not be in the database if it has failed the previous tests.
Reason 3 The Length test should come before the type test, as it requires less processing to check and inputs length.

2 December 2010 - VCAA responded to my complaint about the question:

"In relation to VCE IT: Software Development, Section C Question 4 the Panel Chair and Chief Assessor have provided the following information:

This question is about a validation strategy based on the program specification. The definition of effectiveness in the Study Design is 'a measure of how well something works'. The definition also continues with 'measures of an effective information system'; one of these is given as 'communication of message'. This relates to the question where it talks about the user ... and the program has to provide as much information as possible about what is wrong. The most effective way of providing this is therefore null first, existence last. You have assumed that all four tests are going to be conducted. The statement in the question 'therefore include these validation tests' cannot be interpreted as 'these tests must be run on every number'. These tests are included in the program - perhaps using 'if statements in such a way that the most effective message is returned - therefore, the question 'place the validation tests in the most effective order'. "

O well... I still don't like the question.

Question 5

Percy decides to use a BrandX video camera for the telemedicine trolley. However, Suzie, Percy's chief programmer, found a much higher resolution video camera at a similar cost and reliability. She also makes sure that her camera will be compatible with the other equipment on the telemedicine trolley. Suzie argues that her choice will improve the images the specialists in Melbourne receive in real time.
Explain one other aspect of the system that needs to be checked before changing to Suzie's choice of video camera.

• How much bandwidth is required to transfer such high-resolution video? It might take so much that their comms choke up.
• Is the video recorded in a format that the specialists can view? If not, the video may be useless.

2 marks - average 0.9

A range of responses was accepted, including warranty and customer support; however, bandwidth was the most obvious and critical aspect that needed to be checked to ensure the transmission of the video data.

Students must remember to read questions carefully and ensure that they understand the question stem. This question asked for an explanation, so statements such as ‘check the Internet connection’ or ‘check the bandwidth’ were not adequate. Students needed to provide details as to why the system aspects should be checked.

Students should familiarise themselves with the range of question stems and be aware of the expectations of each. Teachers should endeavour to utilise a range of these when setting assessment.

The following is an example of a high-scoring response. Whether the internet connection will have a high enough bandwidth to efficiently stream such high resolution video from multiple cameras in the hospital at one time.

Question 6

The specialists in Melbourne require real-time data about patients. Nurses need to use a portable device to

1. find patient records on the hospital database
2. enter various observations such as blood pressure and pulse rates then upload these from the portable device to the telemedicine trolley
3. access important blood test results
4. read reports from doctors and other nurses.

One way of connecting the portable device to the telemedicine trolley is to use a cable,

a.  Suggest another way to connect to the telemedicine trolley.

Wireless, wi-fi, 802.11

1 mark - average 0.9

Students performed very well on this question.

b.  Other than cost, explain one major advantage and one major disadvantage of your method.

Advantage

Doctors and nurses can be more mobile and not constrained by cable length.

Cables get in the way.

Cables must be rolled and unrolled and untangled frequently - a messy inconvenience. (Not a "major" disadvantage, I admit)

Disadvantage

Security - communications to and from the device could be intercepted and misused.

2 marks - average 1.5

Students needed to ensure that they read this part of the question carefully as it asked them to suggest advantages and disadvantages of the method (other than cost) selected in 6a. Responses that related to cost were incorrect.
Most students gave mobility or safety due to lack of cables as the advantage, and loss of signal, interference or security of transmission as the disadvantage. It was important, that the explanation provided was applicable to the hospital; simply stating ‘easy to move around’ was not sufficient

Question 7

Percy has to decide what type of portable device needs to be purchased for the nurses. The most important feature of these portable devices is the method of communication. Select three essential features from the list below and explain why each is important.

Feature 1

Ethernet connection

Explanation

Since communication is the most important feature, Ethernet connectivity is vital so the device can connect to the LAN to exchange data.

Feature 2

Weight

Explanation

Since it must be portable, the ease of handling its weight is the next most vital feature of a portable computing device.

Feature 3

After covering Ethernet and weight, any of these can appear in third spot...

• screen size - the bigger the screen, the more data can be viewed at a legible size
• touch screen - when mobile and hand-help, touch screens are easier to use that little keyboards.
• battery life - being portable, it must run on batteries. Long battery life is a distinct advantage.

These would be harder to justify. You might disagree.

• keypad - not really a vital feature unless it was the only data input method.
• storage capacity - the device will be uploading to the trolley, so it will not need to store a huge amount of data for very long.
• stylus - a pretty trivial point nowadays
• USB connection - not vital unless super-fast upload speed is needed. It perhaps could be used to recharge the device's battery.

3 marks - average 2.3

The most appropriate features were battery life, screen size and weight; however, students could have selected other features as long as they were also able to explain why the feature was essential. Ethernet connection was not appropriate as the question asked for items other than methods of communication. Many students were able to provide appropriate responses.

8 Sept 2011 - But the question did NOT ask for items other than methods of communication! 
In fact, Ethernet would be a crucial feature because the portable device could not connect to the LAN without it.
I would be displeased if students were punished for discussing Ethernet.

The answer turned out to be as follows:

"The following was reported to students via Chief Supervisors on the day of the exam:
Turn to page 16, Section C, Question 7.
Insert the word ‘other’ as the third word in the third sentence so that it reads ‘Select three other essential features from the list below and explain why each is important.’."

I hope in future, such exam-room instructions are mentioned in the examiners' reports!

Question 8

Percy has decided to first build a trial system. It will connect one country hospital to one Melbourne hospital. The country hospital chosen for the trial is the Wanlan Base Hospital.
One of Percy's aims in conducting the trial will be to evaluate the software to be used on the telemedicine trolley computer.
Software qualities are measured on the basis of

• effectiveness
• efficiency
• stability
• reliability
• usability
• maintainability.

Percy is proposing four criteria to evaluate the software. For each criterion listed in the table, select from the above list one quality that the criterion is measuring.

4 marks - average 3.0

Wanlan - WAN, LAN - it's a networking joke! Geddit?

It was evident that most students knew the meaning of the software qualities listed; however, some students were not able to gain full marks for this question.
Key terms such as usability, maintainability, efficiency and effectiveness should be used throughout the year so that students become familiar with their usage.

Question 9

During the trial it was found that when nurses changed their passwords for the portable devices the program failed and they were locked out. Investigation found that entering certain characters caused the problem, so it was decided to limit the passwords to just alphabetic letters and numbers. Suzie has suggested the algorithm below to validate a new password before it is stored in the system. She must now test it.

Suzie created the test data shown below.

a.  For each item of data, give a reason for why that data was chosen.

4 marks - average 2.6

To me, it seems pretty simplistic and repetitive for 4 marks' worth. Why not ask students to propose & justify their own test data?

Students struggled significantly with this algorithm question and the related questions. Most students were able to identify that the first value (12a) was valid and the other three items of data were checking an invalid * at the start, middle and end of the password. Students should practise these types of questions either in classroom activities, using past examination papers or in assessment where appropriate.

b.  Suggest one other item of data that will test another aspect of the password procedure and explain why it should also be used.

Test data

Null string

Explanation

In case no password is entered, does the procedure behave properly? Especially since it increments the charcount before the password is even looked at!

2 marks - average 0.9

A large number of students correctly suggested that an additional aspect which should be tested was ‘blank’ or ‘null’. However, many students were not awarded any marks as they suggested tests that did not test another aspect of the procedure.

Question 10

a.  For the algorithm in Question 9, complete the test table below showing what output is expected from the test data and what it actually produces.

2 marks - average 0.7

This question required students to desk check the algorithm and fill in the table. Students needed to fill in each column correctly to be awarded full marks. When testing the algorithm, the content of the table needed to reflect the output as writing in the algorithm, so responses such as ‘true’, ‘false’ or ‘access granted’ were not appropriate.

Suzie found her algorithm does not produce the output expected.

b.  Explain why the algorithm is giving the wrong output.

Firstly: In the IF statement, it will reject all input because any character has to be either not numeric or not alphabetic - or both.

Secondly: even if the IF statement's OR was changed to AND, it would still fail with test data *la because the first character of the password is not being checked. Notice how the first character is stored in PasswordChar before the Repeat, but the first thing in the Repeat construct is loading the next character! The first character is never tested.

2 marks - average 0.8

The algorithm had two key errors that students needed to identify:
• the first character in the password is never tested as the first character is always skipped
• the If statement – all possible passwords combinations are rejected. A significant number of students were not able to identify the two key errors. Students need to ensure that they practise these types of questions throughout the year.

c.  Explain how the algorithm could be corrected.

Firstly, change the OR in the IF statement to AND.

Secondly, delete lines 3 and 4 of the program.

3 marks - average 0.6

Are students expected to find both problems in the code?

The algorithm could be corrected in the following ways:

PasswordChar <- Next Character of Password
Charcount <- Charcount +1
Put these lines after the If statement but before the end of the Repeat Until

-Or-

Add the If statement before the start of the Repeat loop as well as leaving it inside
- And -
If (PasswordChar is Not Numeric) AND (PasswordChar is Not Alphabetic) Then
ValidPassword=False
EndIf

The If statement should have the Or changed to And.

Question 11

The new telemedicine trolley for Wanlan Base Hospital arrived with three large printed technical manuals for each component of the hardware and software. These manuals were left with the trolley for the staff to use. The doctors and nurses who are to use the trolley have complained to management that the manuals are unsuitable.

a.  Explain why these technical manuals are not suitable for use by the doctors and nurses.

Their non-technical roles makes the information in the manuals irrelevant to them.

1 mark - average 0.7

A technical manual provides specifications that the medical staff do not need and is often written in highly technical language that they may not understand. Students were expected to explain that technical manuals were inappropriate for end users as technical manuals are intended for IT professionals.

Identify two different types of user documentation that would be more suitable for the doctors and nurses. State reasons for your choices.

Type 1

Quick start guide (printed)

Reason

Gets a user operating quickly (albeit unskilfully) with minimal training needs.

Type 2

User manual (printed, or electronic on the trolley's computer)

Reason

Provides full details of the operation of the system that can be referred to when it's needed. If electronic, it can be quickly and easily copied, edited and searched.

4 marks - average 2.6

Suitable user documentation included:
• Online procedures manual – the medical staff would be better off using online simple quick-start guides, procedure manuals, or user guides that are presented in simpler language, easily searchable and are aimed at the needs of the medical staff.
• Quick-start guides that are printed and laminated – these could be attached easily to the side of the trolley for quick and easy reference for the staff.

It was pleasing to see that most students were able to discuss a range of user documentation and were able to identify the appropriateness for intended audiences. The following is an example of a high-scoring response for one type of user documentation.

Type – Online User guide explaining all functions of the software

Reason – The doctors and nurses will need to know how to use all of the functions that the software provides, and an online help
facility with a search function will make it easier to find help

Question 12

With the new system in place, Wanlan Base Hospital must now decide on a suitable training program for users of the system before it can be put to use. Doctors and nurses must use this system.

a.  Identify one other key group of staff that must have training in the operation of this new equipment.

Technicians - so they can repair, upgrade and modify the system in the future.

Management - so they can support its resourcing or use it in an emergency (?)

1 mark - average 0.5

Students were able to demonstrate a sound level of knowledge on training strategies, with many indicating that technicians or support staff would also need to be trained.

Percy has developed a training strategy for the hospital and has recommended that all staff be trained on site.

b.  Discuss why he has recommended this strategy.

Familiar surroundings are more comfortable for trainees.

No need for staff to travel = less stress, wasted travel time and cost.

Can use the equipment in the actual environment in which it will be used for real - potential problems related to the environment can be identified. Usage procedures can be tailored for their environment (e.g. where is the trolley stored when not in use?)

2 marks - average 1.3

Students were able to articulate why onsite training was a valuable training strategy, with many indicating that onsite training would allow the users to learn to use the equipment and software in a real environment.

The hospital has been offered a one-day intensive training session for each member of staff.

c.  Suggest one reason why a one-day session is not considered the most appropriate by the hospital management.

With trainees at all different levels of skill, a "one course fits all" approach would mean the unskilled users would not get enough introductory information, and the skilled users would find all the basic material dull and irrelevant.

Also, medical staff and technical staff have different information needs, and a single session would be providing lots of irrelevant information to both groups.

2 marks - average 0.8

Staff require ongoing support in order to use the new systems, rather than a one-day session.
Some students appeared to think the ‘one-day intensive training’ meant that all staff were out on the same day and this would mean that the hospital would not be able to function. Teachers should ensure that students are able to contextualise how each training method may occur.

Question 13

In order to evaluate the success of the new system, the hospital needs to collect data from the system to determine whether the goals and objectives have been achieved.

One of the key hospital goals for RuraLink is to improve country patient outcomes through timely specialist treatment of serious medical issues via the telemedicine trolley.

Data can be collected to evaluate the extent to which the hospital's goal was achieved.

Give two examples of data that could be collected, and explain how this data would be used.

Data 1

Mortality figures

How this data would be used to evaluate the achievement of the goal

A reduction in the the number of deaths over time clearly indicates improved health outcomes.

Data 2

The amount of time taken to arrive at an accurate diagnosis and treatment.

How this data would be used to evaluate the achievement of the goal

If the system helps local doctors get a quicker diagnosis and treatment regime from the city specialists, and dangerous complications and secondary illnesses are prevented, then the system is achieving its goals.

4 marks - average 1.5

Appropriate comments could have included:
• the average time taken to gain access to a specialist in that medical area – this could be compared to previous lengths of time it took to access the specialists. If the length of time has decreased, patient outcomes have improved
• the time between the presentation of symptoms, diagnosis and treatment – could be compared to previous lengths of time
• the number of patients with positive outcomes – if fewer patients are dying, then the patient outcomes have improved.

Students struggled with this evaluation question and it was clear that most students had limited knowledge about how to provide an appropriately detailed response. Many students left this question blank; however, students should be encouraged to provide a response to all questions even if they are unsure of the correct response. The key with most evaluations strategies is that data from a previous system is compared with current details, so data collected must be measurable and allow a comparison.

Total 53 marks - from now on the total for section C will be 60.

OVERALL

On the whole, a slightly easy paper. Some of the options to choose from were absurdly easy to rule out: they could have been more challenging.

There's not as much actual coding as I'd expect from a course called "Software Development". That always bemuses me: lots of questions on peripheral matters, and not much on core programming business. It's the price you pay for creating an academic programming course, I guess.

The case study could have had more information to clarify the external entities.

A few questions were creatively formulated, and reached just the right level of difficulty.

Question 4 in section C is a mad dog beast that escaped its cage at VCAA and should have been shot in the head by Atticus Finch as it lurched down Spring Street, slavering and howling its nonsense. My 2c worth :-)