Context of the Standard

A system is defined as a regularly interacting or interdependent group of items forming a unified whole. Computing systems require inputs and outputs. Input and output, also referred to as I/O, is the communication between an information processing system, such as a computer, and the outside world, possibly a human or another information processing system.

Inputs are the signals or data received by the system. There is a wide variety of digital collection tools used for gathering and inputting digital data. Tools are chosen based upon the type of measurement they use as well as the type of data people wish to observe. These collection tools include the movements and clicks of your mouse and the keys you type on a keyboard. Sensors are also used in computing systems, such as in robotics, to detect information and serve as input devices for the system.   A sensor that is be used with robotic devices is a light sensor that detects changes in brightness.

An output is whatever comes out of the system; for example, outputs include data and what can be seen on the computer screen or how the robotic device responds based on the input from the sensor.

Essential Skills

Essential Questions

Essential Vocabulary

Students should demonstrate these skills:

• Describe how a computing system may use different components to receive input including sensors.
• Identify the processor as the component which manipulates input into output.
• Describe how a computing system may produce output.
• Model a simple computing system indicating inputs and outputs.
• Describe the role of a processor in a computing system.

Students should investigate these concepts:

• What are examples of sensors that take in input?
• What kind of input can a computer take in, and what is required to take in the different types?
• What are the main components of a computing system?
• When you input information into a computer, what path does it take to become output?
• What are the different types of output that a computer can produce?

Students should apply these terms in context:

• Input
• Output
• Processor
• Sensor