IGCSE Computer Science Paper 1 Definitions Worksheet: 6.1 Automated Systems (Modules 608–617)
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Key terms
Write what each term means, in your own words.
1
consistency
2
safety in dangerous places
3
lower running costs
4
Cost of automation
5
job losses
6
system failure
7
cannot judge unexpected situations
8
human oversight
9
advantages vs disadvantages
10
weigh benefits and drawbacks
Answer Key
IGCSE Computer Science Paper 1 · Modules 608–617 · Student wording will vary for definitions
1consistency — An automated system repeats a task in exactly the same way every time, with no tiredness or human error, so its results are more accurate and consistent than human work.
2safety in dangerous places — An automated system can work in hazardous or hard-to-reach places, such as toxic chemicals, volcanoes, deep sea or space, so people are not put at risk.
3lower running costs — An automated system can cut costs over time as it needs fewer paid workers and wastes less material, energy or time, though buying it costs a lot at the start.
4Cost of automation — Automated systems are expensive to buy, install and maintain because they need sensors, microprocessors, actuators and skilled technicians.
5job losses — Automated systems can replace workers, causing unemployment, and fewer people keep practical skills. Retraining is needed. Example: a driverless train replacing drivers.
6system failure — When an automated system stops working or is harmed, for example by a faulty sensor, a power cut or hacking, so the whole process may fail. A backup or manual control helps.
7cannot judge unexpected situations — An automated system only follows its program and sensors, so it has no human judgement when something unexpected happens (like an odd obstacle). People are still needed to oversee it.
8human oversight — People set up, monitor and maintain an automated system, fix faults and can override it in an emergency, so automated does not mean no people are needed.
9advantages vs disadvantages — Weigh what a factory gains (nonstop work, steady quality, safety) against its costs (set-up cost, job losses, breakdowns), link points to the scenario, then conclude.
10weigh benefits and drawbacks — Compare what automated vehicles and signals gain (fewer driver errors, steady speed, no tiredness) with risks (sensor failure, hacking, job losses), linking each point to the scenario.