OCR J277 Systems Software

Lesson 1: User Interfaces

Exploring how we interact with the operating system.

Lesson Progress

0/5
01 Review of Previous Learning

DO NOW: Input vs Output

To use an interface, we need hardware. Classify the following devices in your Google Doc as either Input or Output.

  • Keyboard
  • Monitor
  • Mouse
  • Printer
  • Microphone
  • Speakers
Reveal Classification

Input

  • Keyboard
  • Mouse
  • Microphone

Output

  • Monitor
  • Printer
  • Speakers
02 Introducing the New Objective & KWs

Context & Keywords

Learning Objective

To compare the features and benefits of different types of user interfaces provided by an operating system.

Tier 3 Vocabulary (Click to flip):

GUI Click to enlarge

Graphical User Interface. Uses visual elements like icons and menus. Most common for everyday users.

See WIMP

WIMP Features:

  • Windows
  • Icons
  • Menus
  • Pointers
Click to close
CLI Click to enlarge

Command Line Interface. Users type text commands. Used by technicians for direct, powerful control.

C:\> dir /s /p
C:\> copy file.txt d:\backup

No icons, just power.

Click to close
Menu-driven Click to enlarge

A simple interface where users choose from a list of fixed options. Great for specific tasks (like ATMs).

1. Withdraw Cash

2. Check Balance

3. Change PIN

Click to close
03 New Learning

Comparing GUI vs CLI

GUI (Graphical)

  • Intuitive and easy to learn for beginners.
  • No need to remember complex commands.
  • Uses more memory and processing power.
  • Can be slower for advanced tasks.

CLI (Command Line)

  • Extremely fast for experts; scripts can automate tasks.
  • Uses very little memory (ideal for servers).
  • Very steep learning curve; commands must be exact.
  • No visual feedback (easy to make big mistakes).
04 Application

Independent Task & Exam Practice

Task 1: The UI Designer Lab

  • Open the UI_Design_Lab.html link shared in Google Classroom.
  • You will be presented with 5 devices. Select the most appropriate interface type for each.
  • Once you score 5/5, screenshot your certificate and paste it into your Google Doc.

Task 2: Exam Question

In your Google Doc, answer the following 4-mark OCR exam question.

"Identify one type of user interface that a computer technician might prefer over a standard GUI. Give two reasons why they would prefer this interface." (4 Marks)
05 Consolidation

Plenary: Which Interface?

To finish the lesson, identify the interface type described in each scenario on your Mini Whiteboard.

Scenario A

"I'm at an ATM and I need to withdraw exactly £20."

Scenario B

"I'm using my iPhone to open the Camera app by clicking the icon."

Scenario C

"I'm talking to Alexa to set a timer for 10 minutes."

Scenario D

"I'm a server admin typing commands to update the firewall."