5 The effects of using IT
Candidates should be able to:
5.1 effects of IT on employment
• describe how there has been a reduction of employment in offices, as workers’ jobs have been replaced by computers in a number of fields (e.g. payroll workers, typing pools, car production workers)
• describe how there has been an increase in employment in other fields (e.g. website designers, computer programmers, delivery drivers in retail stores)
5.2 effects of IT on working patterns within organisations
• describe how the use of computers has led to a number of employees changing their working patterns (e.g. part-time working, flexible hours, job sharing, compressed hours)
• describe what is meant by part-time working, flexible hours, job sharing, compressed hours
5.3 microprocessor-controlled devices in the home
• describe the positive effects microprocessors have on aspects of lifestyle (e.g. the amount and use of leisure time, the degree of social interaction, the ability to leave the home)
• describe the negative effects microprocessors have on aspects of lifestyle (e.g. lack of exercise)
5.4 potential health problems related to the prolonged use of IT equipment
• describe repetitive strain injury (RSI) and what causes it
• identify other health issues (e.g. back problems, eye problems, headaches)
• describe some simple strategies for preventing these problems
• evaluate the use of IT equipment and develop strategies to minimise the health risks