THE KENYA NATIONAL EXAMINATIONS COUNCIL
Diploma in Entrepreneurial Agriculture
Diploma in Agricultural Education and Extension
Diploma in Animal Health and Production
Diploma in Business Management
Diploma in Clothing, Textile and Fashion Design
Diploma in Cooperative Management
Diploma in Dairy Technology
Diploma in Electrical and Electronic Technology
Diploma in Food Technology
Diploma in Hides, Skin and Leather Development
Diploma in Industrial Chemistry
Diploma in Information Communication Technology
Diploma in Institutional Management
Diploma in Land Surveying
Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology
Diploma in Pharmaceutical Technology
Diploma in Printing Technology
Diploma in Water Technology
MODULE I
ICT, COMMUNICATION SKILLS & ENTREPRENEURSHIP
Instructions to Candidates
Time: 3 hours
- The paper consists of three sections:
- Section A: Information Communication Technology
- Section B: Communication Skills
- Section C: Entrepreneurship
- Candidates are required to answer FIVE questions as follows:
- TWO questions from Section A
- ONE question from Section B
- ONE question from Section C
- The fifth question must be selected from any section
- All questions carry equal marks.
- All answers must be written in English.
SECTION A: INFORMATION COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY (50 marks)
Answer any TWO questions from this section.
1.
a) Explain each of the following terms used in computing:
i) Operating system
ii) Monitoring software
ANSWER:
i) An operating system (OS) is software that manages computer hardware and software resources, providing common services for computer programs. It acts as an intermediary between users and the computer hardware.
ii) Monitoring software refers to programs used to observe and track activities within a system, network, or device. It is commonly used to ensure performance and security, detect problems, or record user actions.
b) Outline three areas in which computers are classified.
ANSWER:
- By purpose (general-purpose and special-purpose computers).
- By size and power (microcomputers, minicomputers, mainframes, and supercomputers).
- By data handling (analog, digital, and hybrid computers).
c) State two types of computers used at the classification in (b) above.
ANSWER:
- General-purpose computer
- Supercomputer
2.
a) Write five formats that would be used to compose:
i) General space for use
ii) Secure storage for large data
ANSWER:
i) General formats:
- Plain Text (.txt)
- Rich Text Format (.rtf)
- Microsoft Word (.doc/.docx)
- PDF (.pdf)
- Google Docs
ii) Secure storage formats: - Encrypted Zip File (.zip)
- VeraCrypt Container
- BitLocker Drive Encryption
- AES-encrypted Files
- Encrypted PDF
b) Explain three formatting features applied on the document.
ANSWER:
- Bold text
- Justified alignment
- Use of bullet points
c) Distinguish between a form and a report as used in databases.
ANSWER:
- A form is a database object used to enter, view, or edit data. It provides a user-friendly interface for data input and interaction with the database.
- A report is a database object used to display or summarize data in a printable format, often used for analysis or presentation of information.
d) State two types of files available in a database management software.
ANSWER:
- Data files (tables)
- Index files
3.
a) Write four items that may be found in an automatic presentation package.
ANSWER:
- Templates
- Animation effects
- Transition effects
- Slide layouts
b) Explain two precautions that a computer user should take when downloading information from the Internet.
ANSWER:
- Always scan downloads with antivirus software to check for malware or viruses.
- Only download from trusted websites to avoid malicious content.
c) With the aid of diagrams, identify three types of network topologies that may be found in a business setup.
(Skip due to diagram requirement)
d) State four text alignment styles available in a presentation package.
ANSWER:
- Left alignment
- Right alignment
- Center alignment
- Justified alignment
e) Explain three benefits that an organization may derive from using distributed data processing models.
ANSWER:
- Enhanced system reliability: If one system fails, others can continue functioning.
- Faster data access: Data is processed closer to where it’s needed.
- Scalability: Easier to scale the system by adding more nodes.
SECTION B: COMMUNICATION SKILLS (30 marks)
Answer any ONE question from this section.
4.
a) State six ways that may be used to enhance an oral presentation.
ANSWER:
- Use visual aids like slides.
- Maintain eye contact with the audience.
- Speak clearly and at a moderate pace.
- Use appropriate gestures.
- Engage the audience with questions or examples.
- Summarize key points.
b) Outline four limitations of using the telephone as a means of communication in an organization.
ANSWER:
- Lack of non-verbal cues, which can lead to misunderstandings.
- No formal record of the conversation unless recorded.
- Interruptions from external noise or network issues.
- Can be time-consuming, especially if the call is not well-structured.
c) Explain three forms of non-verbal cues in interpersonal communication.
ANSWER:
- Facial expressions: Convey emotions like happiness or frustration.
- Gestures: Hand movements to emphasize points.
- Posture: Body stance can show interest, engagement, or disinterest.
d) Highlight four roles of a secretary during a meeting.
ANSWER:
- Taking minutes of the meeting.
- Distributing the agenda to participants before the meeting.
- Managing attendance records.
- Assisting in coordinating follow-up actions after the meeting.
SECTION C: ENTREPRENEURSHIP (20 marks)
Answer any ONE question from this section.
5.
a) Outline four factors that should be considered when locating a retail outlet.
ANSWER:
- Proximity to customers.
- Accessibility and parking facilities.
- Cost of rent or purchase.
- Competitor presence in the area.
b) United Brands Group wishes to expand its retail base in Kenya. Explain four ways in which the group may overcome any challenges.
ANSWER:
- Researching market needs and preferences.
- Building strategic partnerships with local suppliers.
- Offering promotions to attract a customer base.
- Investing in local advertising and outreach.
c) Distinguish between business risks and business contingency plans.
ANSWER:
- Business risks are potential challenges or losses that could affect the operation of a business.
- Business contingency plans are pre-established strategies and actions that a business can use to respond to risks or emergencies.
d) State four types of records that a feasibility study report may evaluate.
ANSWER:
- Financial records
- Market analysis records
- Technical requirements records
- Legal compliance records
e) Highlight four characteristics of a business that may lead to its failure.
ANSWER:
- Poor financial management.
- Lack of a clear business plan.
- Ineffective marketing strategies.
- Failure to adapt to market changes.
6.
a) Adhola has decided to venture into a partnership business. State six reasons that may account for this decision.
ANSWER:
- Shared capital among partners reduces the financial burden.
- Shared responsibilities and expertise.
- Reduced workload for each partner.
- Ability to pool resources and skills.
- Easier decision-making with more input.
- Better risk management by spreading liability.
b) Outline four characteristics of a good business plan.
ANSWER:
- Clear objectives and goals.
- Well-researched market analysis.
- Realistic financial projections.
- Specific strategies for marketing and operations.
c) State six formal stakeholders of a business enterprise.
ANSWER:
- Shareholders
- Employees
- Customers
- Suppliers
- Creditors
- Government agencies
d) Highlight four ways in which a business organization may use electronic mail to reach its customers.
ANSWER:
- Sending newsletters or updates about products.
- Providing customer support.
- Conducting email marketing campaigns.
- Sending order confirmations and invoices.
This is the full content with all the sections included as per your request.