See the whole computer system
Topic 01 establishes the computing foundation needed for every later topic.
Learning outcomes
- Explain the purpose and basic operation of a computer system.
- Identify major hardware and software components.
- Trace information through input, processing, storage, output and feedback.
- Explain operating-system and network roles.
- Apply system thinking to a familiar digital service.
- Evaluate performance and responsible-use considerations.
Topic 01 evidence tracker
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Foundation extension pathway
Continue beyond the required concepts with practical hardware, data representation and diagnostic skills.
Inside the machineMotherboard Anatomy · CPU Instruction Cycle
Represent and connectDigital Data Representation · Ports and Connectivity
Inspect your computerComputer Specification Audit
Connect to the courseHardware to Data Engineering
Information technology in connected systems
Extend the computer-system foundation to information systems, the Web, distributed computing and professional pathways.
Technology and organisationsIT, ICT and Information Systems
Connected informationInternet and World Wide Web
Device to data centreThe Modern Computing Continuum
People and purposeTechnology Impact and Computing Careers
Advanced computing hardware pathway
Continue from individual computer components to the infrastructure behind AI, supercomputers, data centres and advanced chip manufacturing.
Parallel computingGPU and Parallel Computing · AI Accelerator Chips
Infrastructure at scaleSupercomputer Architecture · Data Centre Hardware
AI infrastructureAI Data Centre
How chips are madeAdvanced Chip Manufacturing · ASML EUV Lithography
Apply system thinkingInfrastructure Case Studies