Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term v4 - SHS 3
APP DEVELOPMENT
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APP DEVELOPMENT
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Subject: Computing
Class: SHS 3
Term: 2nd Term
Week: 10
Grade code: 3.2.2.LI.2
Strand code: 2
Sub-strand code: 2
Content standard code: 3.2.2.CS.1
Indicator code: 3.2.2.LI.2
Theme: COMPUTATIONAL THINKING (PROGRAMMING LOGIC)
Subtheme: APP DEVELOPMENT
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This lesson introduces students to two fundamental approaches in app development: conventional systems and intelligent systems. In today's world, we interact with both types of applications daily, from simple calculators on our phones to sophisticated apps like Google Maps or the Mobile Money systems that detect fraud. Understanding the difference between them is crucial for any aspiring software developer, digital entrepreneur, or even a critical user of technology. This knowledge helps us decide which approach is best for solving a particular problem, especially problems we face right here in our Ghanaian communities, from agriculture to finance.
This lesson focuses on comparing two types of systems. Think of them as two different ways of building a tool to solve a problem. 2.1. What are Conventional Systems?
A conventional system (also known as a traditional or procedural system) is an application that follows a set of pre-programmed, fixed rules. Its behaviour is entirely predictable because a human developer has written explicit, step-by-step instructions (an algorithm) for every possible situation it is designed to handle. It does not learn or change on its own.
Key Characteristics: Rule-Based: Operates on a strict `IF-THEN-ELSE` logic. For example, `IF` user enters correct PIN, `THEN` grant access, `ELSE` show error message. Deterministic: Given the same input, it will always produce the same output. A calculator app will always show `2 + 2 = 4`. Static: It does not learn from new data or user interactions. To change its behaviour, a programmer must manually rewrite the code. Problem-Solving: Solves well-defined problems where the steps to the solution are clear and unchanging.
Ghanaian Example: A Basic School Fees Payment App Imagine an app for your school where you can check your fees. You enter your Student ID. The app follows a rule: "Look up the Student ID in the database." It follows another rule: "Fetch the corresponding fee amount from the 'Fees' column." It follows a final rule: "Display the amount on the screen."