Communication (Cambridge International IGCSE ICT)
Exam board Cambridge International · IGCSEUpdated 2024-05-07
Communication Media
Spec point —
6.1.1
What is communication media?
- Communication media describes the tools and channels for sharing of information between a sender and a receiver
- Communication media can be both electronic and physical
Newsletters
-
Periodic publications, often used to inform, educate, or entertain subscribers about specific topics
- Usually distributed through email or as printed copies
- Suitable for organisations, schools, and clubs to keep members up-to-date
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| - Cost effective - Measurable results - Easy to personalise - Targeted - Increases brand awareness | - Low engagement - SPAM filters can unintentionally block - Limited interactivity - Can get lost in a busy inbox |
Posters
-
Visual presentations that convey information or promote events or products
- Combine text, images, and graphics to grab attention
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| - Cost effective - Wide reach - Versatile - Long shelf life in the right space | - Limited information - Lack of interactivity - Can be removed/defaced - Cannot update |
Websites
-
Online platforms that provide information or services
- Accessible through the internet using a web browser
- Useful for businesses, educational institutions, and individuals to share information, sell products, or offer services
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| - Media rich - Links to other websites - Easy navigation - Global audience | - Can be hacked - Risk of pharming - Maintenance can be expensive |
Multimedia presentations
-
Digital presentations that combine various forms of media, such as text, images, audio, and video
- Used in education, business, and entertainment to present information in a visually engaging way
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| - Media rich - Interactive - Transitions/animations to highlight key information | - Special equipment required - Often required internet access - Easy to create a bad presentation - Visuals can take focus from the overall message |
Audio & Video
-
Sound recordings, such as podcasts, music, and radio shows
- It can be streamed or downloaded for offline listening
- Suitable for providing information, entertainment, or educational content
-
Moving images with or without sound, used for entertainment, education, or promotional purposes
- Can be streamed or downloaded for offline viewing
- Typical platforms include YouTube, Vimeo, and social media websites
Media streaming
-
Real-time transmission of audio and video files over the internet
- Allows users to access content without downloading it to their devices
- Popular services include Spotify, Netflix, and YouTube
E-Publications
-
Digital versions of printed materials, such as eBooks, eMagazines, and eNewspapers
- It can be read on electronic devices, such as eReaders, tablets, and smartphones
- Offer benefits like portability, searchability, and adjustable text size
Mobile Communication
Spec point —
6.1.2
What is mobile communication?
- Mobile communication involves transmitting information between people and devices using radio waves
- Smartphones use subscriber identity module (SIM) cards to link the devices to a network carrier, allowing them to make phone calls and send messages
- Smartphones include features such as:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| SMS messaging | - Quick communication - Messages are stored on the device and can be read at any time - Use virtual keyboards and predictive text |
| Phone calls | - Simple voice communication - Requires cellular reception |
| Voice over internet protocol (VoIP) | - Audio & visual communication via the internet - Requires extra apps installed on the devices - Can make & receive calls via smartphone, tablet and computers - Requires a forward facing camera for video calls |
| Accessing the internet | - Requires cellular reception to access on the move - Web pages are optimised for smartphone access - Automatically used Wi-Fi when in range and connected |
| Mobile payments | - Uses NFC |
| Camera | - Smartphones have built-in cameras for video calls - Camera can act as a barcode scanner for QR codes |
Was this revision note helpful?
Build on this topic