Explain data capture and its associated devices, and discuss data redundancy in databases.

You're on a roll — here are the answers to your questions: 4. a) Data capture is the process of collecting or converting information into a digital format that can be processed and stored by a computer system. b) Two data capture devices useful for a school secretary are: • Keyboard: Used to manually input textual and numerical data, such as student names, addresses, grades, or attendance records. • Scanner: Used to convert physical documents (e.g., application forms, medical certificates, handwritten notes) into digital images or text files. c) • Keyboard: Typically connected to the PC via a USB port (Universal Serial Bus) or wirelessly via Bluetooth. • Scanner: Typically connected to the PC via a USB port or, for network scanners, via an Ethernet port. d) • Keyboard: Prolonged use can lead to Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI), such as carpal tunnel syndrome, due to repetitive finger movements and awkward wrist postures. • Scanner: Excessive use, especially with older models, can cause eye strain due to bright scanning lights, or back/neck pain if the user has to repeatedly bend or twist to place documents on the scanner. 5. a) Data redundancy in a database refers to the unnecessary duplication of data within a database. This occurs when the same piece of information is stored in multiple places. b) Two types of problems caused by data redundancy are: • Data inconsistency: If duplicated data is updated in one location but not in others, it leads to conflicting values for the same information, making the data unreliable. • Increased storage space and maintenance effort: Storing the same data multiple times wastes disk space and requires more effort to ensure all copies are consistent when changes are made. c) A strategy used to handle data redundancy is Database Normalization. This involves organizing the columns and tables of a relational database to minimize data redundancy and improve data integrity. It breaks down large tables into smaller, related tables and defines relationships between them. 6. a) In project management, the critical path is the longest sequence of activities in a project schedule that must be completed on time for the entire project to be completed by its deadline. Any delay in an activity on the critical path will directly delay the entire project. Got more? Send 'em 📸