Updates to the IC³ Exams for the 2005 Standard
 

Computing Fundamentals
Entire module is updated to include advances in technology such as:
•	Interactive books
•	PDAs and cell phones connecting to the Internet
•	infrared ports
•	virtual storage - memory cards and memory sticks

Maintaining computer equipment and hardware problem solving including:
•	Identify factors that can damage computer hardware and software
•	Identify common problems that can occur if hardware is not maintained properly, including sticky keyboard and mouse
•	Identify maintenance that should only be performed by experienced professionals
•	Identify the steps required to solve computer related problems
•	Identify how software and hardware work together to perform computing tasks and how software is developed and upgraded
•	Identify issues relating to software upgrades

Display and update a list of installed printers
Identify common uses for database applications and fundamental concepts relating to databases, including:
•	Records, fields, tables, queries, reports, forms, key fields, relational database

 

Key Applications
Presentation Software
Be able to create and format simple presentations
•	Identify effective design principles for simple presentations
•	Manage slides, including: Create/insert a new slide with a specified format; Delete a slide; Duplicate a slide
•	Add information to a slide
•	Change slide view
•	Modify a slide background
•	Assign transitions to slides

Spreadsheet Functions
Identify how a table of data is organized in a spreadsheet, including:
•	The way data is organized into columns and rows
•	The way a cell address is identified by column letter and row number
•	The importance of using the top row of a data table to identify information in the columns below
Identify how a table of data is organized in a spreadsheet, including:
•	Pie charts to present percentage information
•	Line charts or area charts to present trends in data
•	Column or bar charts to compare values side-by-side

Word Processing Functions
Identify on screen formatting information, including:
•	Breaks, including line, page and section breaks
•	Paragraph markers
•	Tab markers
•	Indent markers

 

Living Online
Identify the risks of networked computing, including:
•	Loss of autonomy
•	Potential loss of privacy and security
•	Potential of network-wide systems failure
•	Vulnerability to a network virus attack

Identify fundamental principles of security on a network, including:
•	Authorizing users be a network administrator
•	Authentication of users through proper login procedures
•	Protection from external threats using protective technology such as firewalls
•	Regular monitoring of the network by network administrators

Identify the hardware and software required to connect to the Internet, including:
•	Computers such as PCs or Macintosh computers
•	Handheld devices such as personal digital assistants (PDAs)
•	Mobile telephones or other wireless devices
•	Modems
•	Dedicated connection (such as Ethernet)
•	Wireless connection
•	Telecommunication software

Identify procedures for ensuring the safe and effective use of electronic mail, including:
•	Checking mail and attachments for viruses
•	Writing and reviewing e-mail carefully before sending
•	Understanding the rules of "netiquette" and company/school policies regarding e-mail use and content
•	Using encryption software for secure e-mail
•	Backing up/Archiving mail on a regular basis