JAMB Computer Studies Syllabus
This is the JAMB UTME syllabus for Computer Studies, covering 32 topics. Each topic lists what you are expected to study and the objectives — what you should be able to do — based on the official JAMB syllabus.
General Objectives
The Computer Studies syllabus is designed to enable candidates to:
- Prepare candidates for the Board's (JAMB UTME) examination in Computer Studies.
- Test candidates' understanding of the evolution of computing systems.
- Test the basic concepts of the computer and its operations.
- Test problem-solving skills, data processing, and practical skills in computing.
- Test knowledge of system software and application software, and the operation of basic computer hardware (Input, Output, Memory and the Central Processing Unit).
- Test the application of online resources and online skills, ethics and human issues in computing, and career prospects in computing.
Detailed Computer Studies Syllabus
-
History of Computing
Contents
- Pre-computing age devices and components
- Computing devices of the 20th century
- Historical development behind each computing device
- Pioneers and milestone machines (ENIAC, EDVAC, UNIVAC 1, desktop personal computers)
Objectives — candidates should be able to:
- Identify various computing devices: Abacus, Slide Rule, Napier's Bones, Pascal Calculator, Leibnitz Multiplier, Jacquard Loom, Babbage's Analytical Engine, Hollerith Census machine and Burrough's machine
- Discuss the contributions of the founders of modern computing devices (ENIAC, EDVAC, UNIVAC 1 and desktop personal computers)
-
Classification of Computing Devices
Contents
- Classification by generation
- Classification by size
- Classification by purpose
- Classification by type
Objectives — candidates should be able to:
- Relate each computer generation to its characteristic features (from the first generation to the current generation)
- Describe each generation by year of development, basic components/technology type, speed and storage capacity
- Explain the differences between micro, mini, mainframe and super computers (size classification)
- Differentiate between modern computer types: personal computers, desktops, laptops, tablets, hand-held, servers, workstations, mainframes, wearable, supercomputers, digital, analog, hybrid, and special/general-purpose computers
- State the importance and uses of these computer systems
-
Overview of Computing Systems
Contents
- The two main constituents of a computer system: hardware and software
- Computer characteristics
- Hardware types, examples and uses
- Logic circuits and gates
- Software types, examples and uses
Objectives — candidates should be able to:
- Define a computer system in relation to its nature and programmability
- List the functional parts of a computer
- Explain computer characteristics: electronic, accuracy, speed, interactive, reliability, consistency and large storage
- Identify the differences between hardware and software
- Define hardware devices and components and list the CPU, peripherals (input/output) and storage media with their functions
- Explain the differences between input and output devices and describe major input devices (keyboard, mouse, scanner, joystick, light pen, voice input, digital camera)
- Classify keyboard keys (function, numeric, alphabetic, cursor keys) and explain mouse features and operations
- Define output devices (monitor, printer, speaker, plotter), list their types/features/uses, and compare inkjet, laser and line printers
- List CPU components (ALU, Control Unit, Registers) and explain their functions
- Distinguish primary from secondary memory; list and explain RAM and ROM uses and differences
- Explain secondary storage functions and give examples (floppy disk, magnetic tape, hard disk, CD, DVD, USB); compare auxiliary storage by size, speed, cost and technology
- List units of storage measurement (bit, byte, nibble, word, kilobyte, megabyte, gigabyte, terabyte) and their relationships
- Define registers, bus and address; explain MDR, MAR, MBR, AC, PC and CIR; distinguish registers from main memory
- State the Input-Process-Output steps and the factors affecting data transfer speed (bus speed/width)
- Define and give the uses of logic gates (AND, OR, NOT, NOR, NAND), interpret logic equations, list gate symbols and construct truth tables
- Define a comparator and construct a simple comparator using XOR and NOR gates
- Differentiate system software from application software and list system software types (OS, utilities, middleware, device drivers, translators)
- Define the operating system, list its functions and user-interface types (command-line, menu, GUI), and give examples (MS Windows, LINUX, UNIX, Android, Blackberry, iPhone)
- Define utility software, list its functions/types and give examples (editors, anti-virus)
- Define translators and their functions, and distinguish interpreters, assemblers and compilers
- List application software examples and usage; differentiate open-source from proprietary software and in-house from off-the-shelf acquisition
- Give common off-the-shelf packages by purpose: word processing, spreadsheet, database, presentation, graphics, accounting, payroll, government, banking, statistics, educational and hospital software
-
Data and Information
Contents
- Differences between data and information
- Data representation
- Methods of digitization
Objectives — candidates should be able to:
- Define data and information and list the properties of information
- List data types (integers, real numbers, strings, multimedia)
- Identify data representation and handling methods, including number bases (binary, decimal, hexadecimal)
- Define digitization and explain digitization processes (manual, heads-up, interactive tracing, automatic)
- List digitized data formats (image, audio, video, motion, text, multimedia)
-
Word Processing Package
Contents
- General concept of word processing
- Creating and saving documents
- Editing, formatting and insertion
- Printing
- MS Word features, launching and basic operations
Objectives — candidates should be able to:
- Define word processing and give examples (MS Word, WordStar, WordPerfect, Open Word)
- Identify word processing features (create, save, edit, insert, print, share) and application areas (office, publishing, journalism, education)
- Launch MS Word and perform basic operations (create, edit, save, retrieve, print, copy/move)
- Use different font types and sizes, format and justify text, and use search/explore
- Carry out spell checking and file merging, then close MS Word
-
Spreadsheet Package
Contents
- General concept of spreadsheets
- Creating and saving documents
- Editing, formatting and insertion
- Printing
- MS Excel features, launching and basic operations
Objectives — candidates should be able to:
- Define a spreadsheet and give examples (MS Excel, VisiCalc, SuperCalc, SPSS)
- Identify spreadsheet features and application areas (accounting, engineering, statistics, calculation, what-if scenarios, education)
- Launch MS Excel and define basic terms (worksheet, workbook, cell, cell range)
- Create, edit, save, retrieve and print spreadsheets using data types (number, label, formula)
- Perform arithmetic calculations using formulas and built-in functions
- Format, edit and print spreadsheets and draw charts, then close MS Excel
-
Database Package
Contents
- Database definition and examples
- Database organizations
- Database format features
- Creating a database using MS Access
- Operations on existing databases
Objectives — candidates should be able to:
- Define a database and give examples (Dbase, Foxbase, MS Access, Oracle)
- Define basic terms (file, record, field, key, form, table)
- List and explain database organizations (hierarchical, network, relational) and application areas (office, home, education, government, hospital, agriculture)
- Explain MS Access database format features (files designed as tables; tables of rows and columns; a row holds a record; a column holds a field)
- Create a database: define structure, indicate field types (numeric, character, date, text), enter and save data
- Perform basic operations (searching, modifying, sorting, reporting, selecting, inserting) and close the database
-
Graphics Package
Contents
- Definitions and examples of graphics packages
- CorelDraw features
- Simple design using CorelDraw
Objectives — candidates should be able to:
- Define graphics and give examples (Paint, Harvard Graphics, Photoshop, CorelDraw, AutoCAD)
- Explain CorelDraw features (LiveSketch tool, multi-monitor, healing clone tools, copy curve segments, Gaussian blur, touch-friendly GUI, stylus enhancements, import legacy workspaces, interactive sliders, custom node shapes, font filtering/search, Corel Font Manager, enhanced vector previews, handles and nodes)
- Activate and use existing CorelDraw files
- Design a business card, school logo, national flag, invitation card and certificate
-
Presentation Package
Contents
- Presentation package definition and examples
- PowerPoint features, activation and operations
Objectives — candidates should be able to:
- Define a presentation package and give examples (MS PowerPoint, Windows Movie Maker, Macromedia Flash, Impress, Apple Keynote)
- Explain PowerPoint environment features (animation painter, video editor, automatic ribbon toolbars, transitions, sections, crop tool, mask feature, preview, screenshot, smart guides)
- Explain the activation steps
- Perform operations: create a new presentation, insert pictures/text/graphs/animated content, add a slide, save, run the slide show, print and close
-
Web Design Package
Contents
- Web design package definition and examples
- Uses of web design packages
- Web design elements using Dreamweaver
Objectives — candidates should be able to:
- Define web design packages and give examples (HTML, XML, Dreamweaver, RapidWeaver, Google Web Designer, Microsoft SharePoint Designer, NetObjects Fusion, Xara Web Designer)
- List web design elements (navigation, visual design, content, web-friendliness, interaction, information accessibility, intuitiveness, branding, turnaround time, conversion)
- Use Dreamweaver for social media management/marketing, website design and web development, pay-per-click (PPC) management and advert consulting
-
Concept of Computer Files
Contents
- Basic terms definitions
- File organizations
- File access methods
- File classifications
- File classification criteria
Objectives — candidates should be able to:
- Define basic terms (file, record, field, data item)
- Identify and use basic data types (numeric, alphabetic, alphanumeric)
- Explain the relationships among file structure items (data item → field → record → file → database)
- Classify files by organization (serial, sequential, index, random) and access them appropriately
- Classify files into master, transaction and reference files
- Explain file classification criteria (nature of content, organization method, storage medium, date, size)
-
Handling Computer Files
Contents
- Basic file operations
- Data loss
- Data security
- Computer files versus manual files
Objectives — candidates should be able to:
- Perform basic file operations (create, delete, retrieve, insert, copy, view, update, open, close)
- Identify causes of data loss (overwriting, inadvertent deletion, hardware malfunction, virus attack, theft, arson, natural disaster)
- Use data security methods (backup, antivirus, PIN, biometrics, passwords, proper labelling, CCTV/physical security, fire extinguisher, smoke alarm)
- Compare the advantages and disadvantages of computer files versus manual files (security, access speed, setup cost, maintenance, electricity supply)
-
Booting and Shutting Down Process
Contents
- Definition of booting
- Types of booting
- Booting and shutdown steps
Objectives — candidates should be able to:
- Define booting and list its types (cold booting and warm booting)
- Explain the differences between cold and warm booting
- Explain the booting and shutdown steps
-
Computer Maintenance
Contents
- General system cleaning
- Battery and UPS maintenance
- Hardware and software maintenance
- Data recovery
Objectives — candidates should be able to:
- Perform general computer system cleaning
- Charge and replace batteries for portable systems and UPS
- Clean drive lenses
- Perform simple hardware and software maintenance
- Recover data from crashed systems
-
Computer Room Management
Contents
- Sitting arrangement
- Positioning of equipment
- Environmental conditions
- Laboratory rules
Objectives — candidates should be able to:
- Define a proper sitting arrangement
- Position the monitor, keyboard, CPU, mouse and peripherals appropriately
- Ensure proper computer room illumination
- Maintain a dust-free environment and keep liquids away from the computer room
- Keep strictly to laboratory rules and regulations
-
Communication Systems
Contents
- ICT definitions and acronym
- ICT types and examples
Objectives — candidates should be able to:
- State the full meaning of ICT and define it
- List ICT types (broadcasting, telecommunication, data network, information systems, satellite communication)
- Give broadcasting examples (radio, television, satellite broadcasting)
- List telecommunication types (PSTN land line, mobile phone system, CSPT, satellite telephone system, fixed wireless telephone system)
- List data network types (PAN, LAN, MAN, WAN, intranet, internet)
- List information system types (data processing system, Global Positioning System)
-
Application Areas of ICT
Contents
- ICT application areas
- ICT-based devices
Objectives — candidates should be able to:
- Define ICT application areas (teleconferencing, video conferencing, telecommuting, telecomputing, messaging, information search/retrieval/archival, e-learning, telemedicine, e-commerce, e-government, e-library)
- List ICT device types (mobile phones, computers, ATMs, dispensing machines, point-of-sale machines, automated cash registers, radio sets, television sets, scanners)
-
Internet
Contents
- Internet term definitions
- Internet browsers
- Browser features
- Internet services
Objectives — candidates should be able to:
- Define the internet
- Define and illustrate terms: home page, browse, browser, chatroom, cybercafe, HTTP, HTML, ISP, webpage, website
- Access the internet through browsers (Internet Explorer, Opera, Firefox, Google Chrome and others)
- Explain browser features (title bar, menu bar, tool bar, address bar, icons, search bar)
-
Electronic Mail
Contents
- Definition of electronic mail
- Email services
- Email creation and opening steps
- Email address features
Objectives — candidates should be able to:
- Define electronic mail and chatting
- List email units (creating an email address, composing email, sending/receiving email, adding attachments, chatting, creating a mailing list group)
- Explain email address features (e.g. user@DomainName) and the components of a domain name
-
Networking
Contents
- Definition of networking
- Network types
- Network topologies
- Network devices
Objectives — candidates should be able to:
- Define a computer network
- List and define network types (PAN, LAN, MAN, WAN, internet)
- Explain the differences between network topologies (star, bus, ring)
- Define and explain the uses of network devices (hub, modem, switch, router, gateway, repeater, access point, network interface card)
-
World Wide Web (WWW)
Contents
- Definitions and acronym meanings
- Brief history of the WWW
- Basic terminologies
- Protocols
- Advantages and disadvantages
- Website navigation
- Web development software
- Email versus website
Objectives — candidates should be able to:
- Give the full meanings of WWW, HTTP, HTTPS, HTML and XML and explain the history of the WWW
- Explain basic terminologies (www, website, homepage, protocol)
- Define protocol and list types (HTTP, HTTPS, FTP)
- List the uses, benefits and disadvantages of the WWW (including identity theft, cyberbullying, fake news, hacking, spam)
- Navigate websites such as jamb.gov.ng, waec.org.ng, neco.ng and google.com
- Use web development software (FrontPage, WordPress, Dreamweaver, Photoshop, Google Web Designer)
- Differentiate between an email address and a website address
-
Cables and Connectors
Contents
- Network cables and connectors
- Computer cables and connectors
Objectives — candidates should be able to:
- Identify network cables (twisted pair, coaxial, fibre optics) and connectors (RJ45, 8311, T-connectors)
- Identify computer cables (power, data, printer, USB, monitor, serial, parallel) and connectors (male and female)
-
Programming Language
Contents
- Definition and classification of programming languages
- Advantages and disadvantages of the different language levels
Objectives — candidates should be able to:
- Define a programming language
- Identify programming language classifications: machine language, assembly language and high-level language (BASIC, C, Java, Fortran, Python, Perl)
- Give the advantages and disadvantages of machine, assembly and high-level programming languages
-
High Level Languages (HLL)
Contents
- HLL classifications
- HLL characteristics
- Translators
Objectives — candidates should be able to:
- Classify high-level languages (scientific, general purpose, business, object-oriented, procedural, artificial intelligence, string processing, domain-specific, scripting, systems, visual, esoteric)
- Explain HLL characteristics (require translation, portable, English-like and easy to read/write/maintain, use data types and control structures, programmer friendly)
- Define translators and their basic types (interpreters and compilers)
-
Algorithm and Flowcharts
Contents
- Definitions of algorithm and flowchart
- Functions of an algorithm
- Properties of an algorithm
- Flowchart symbols
Objectives — candidates should be able to:
- Define an algorithm and a flowchart
- State the functions of an algorithm (perform calculations, data processing, automated reasoning)
- State and explain algorithm properties (input, output, definiteness, effectiveness, finiteness)
- Identify flowchart symbols (start, input/output, process, decision, stop, loop, continuation)
- Draw flowcharts for programming problems
-
Programming Language Structure
Contents
- Basic statements
- Arithmetic and string operators
- Subunits
- Primitive and non-primitive data
Objectives — candidates should be able to:
- Identify language features and syntax (keywords, variable types, constants/literals, numeric, string/alphanumeric)
- Identify basic statements (input, output, processing, comments, subunits such as functions/procedures/methods/subroutines, and statements such as iteration, conditional, assignment, dimension)
- Define arithmetic operators and expressions, string operators and expressions, and built-in functions
- Define primitive data (integer, float, Boolean, character) and non-primitive data types (arrays, classes, string)
- Define complex data structures (trees, graphs, linked lists, objects)
-
Program Development
Contents
- Definition of a program
- Characteristics of a good program
- Precautions in program development
- Program development steps
Objectives — candidates should be able to:
- Define a program and list the characteristics of a good program (accuracy, readability, maintainability, efficiency, generality, clarity)
- State program development precautions (be patient, do not skip steps, follow the order of execution)
- Explain the program development steps (problem definition, analysis, design, coding, compilation, testing/debugging, documentation, maintenance)
- Give examples of interpreted programs (BASIC, Java, Python) and compiled programs (COBOL, FORTRAN, C, C++)
-
System Development Life Cycle (SDLC)
Contents
- Definition of the SDLC
- Stages of the SDLC
Objectives — candidates should be able to:
- Define and describe the System Development Life Cycle
- Explain the SDLC stages (preliminary study, feasibility analysis, design and implementation including coding/testing/documentation/delivery, maintenance and review)
- Draw an SDLC diagram
-
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Contents
- Definition of AI
- Branches of AI
- Applications of AI
Objectives — candidates should be able to:
- Define artificial intelligence
- Identify the branches of AI (machine learning - supervised, unsupervised and reinforcement; neural networks; expert systems; fuzzy logic; natural language processing; deep learning)
- List AI application areas (robotics, e-commerce, navigation, human resources, healthcare, agriculture, gaming, automobiles, social media, marketing)
-
Fundamentals of Robotics
Contents
- Definition of robotics
- Main robot components
- Types of robots
- Robot application areas
- Advantages and disadvantages of robots
Objectives — candidates should be able to:
- Define robots and robotics
- Identify the main robot components (control system, sensors, actuators, power supply, end effectors)
- Mention robot types (humanoid, autonomous, teleoperated, augmenting robots)
- Itemize robot application areas (logistics, manufacturing, home, travel, healthcare, security, space exploration, entertainment, agriculture, food preparation, military, customer service)
- State the advantages and disadvantages of robots
-
Computer Ethics and Cyber Risks
Contents
- Ethical issues in computing
- Computer security
- Computer-related crime
- Responsibility for computer failure
- Protection of computer property, records and software
- Privacy of the company, workers and customers
- Cyber risks and protection
Objectives — candidates should be able to:
- Define computer-related crime and state examples (compromising computer systems, hacking, theft)
- List methods of preventing unauthorized access (user identification, passwords) and methods of protecting computer resources (electronic and manual)
- List methods of protecting privacy by law and electronically
- Define computer security and identify its types (network, internet/cyber, application, data, information and end-user security)
- Identify appropriate security tools (firewalls, antivirus software, encryption) and information security dimensions (confidentiality, integrity, availability - CIA)
- List network security methods (antivirus, application security, behavioural analytics, data loss prevention, email security, firewalls, mobile device security, network segmentation, SIEM, VPN, web security, wireless security, network access control)
- List cyber security threats (cybercrime, cyber-attack, cyber terrorism, malware, virus, trojans, spyware, ransomware, adware, botnets, SQL injection, phishing, man-in-the-middle, denial of service)
- List cyber security safety tips (regular software/OS updates, use antivirus, use strong passwords, avoid unknown attachments/links, avoid unsecured public Wi-Fi)
-
Potentials for Higher Studies in Computing
Contents
- Career paths in computing
- Career prospects and entrepreneurship in computing
Objectives — candidates should be able to:
- List possible computing career paths (software developer, software test engineer, programmer/analyst, system developer, web developer, computer system analyst, database administrator, system administrator, network engineer, business analyst, IT specialist, data analyst/scientist, AI and robotics specialist, system security analyst, digital forensic analyst, mobile app developer, ICT manager, blogger, e-marketer, social media manager, ICT educator, careers in academia, private entrepreneurship, internet police, IT user support/desk officer, ICT librarian, computer instructor)
Recommended Texts
- Sharma, B., Singh, S. & Singh, V. A Textbook for Year 11 - Computer Studies. Fiji: Technology and Employment Skills Training, Ministry of Education.
- Addan, E. (2013). My Computer for Senior Secondary Schools 1, 2, 3 with Practical Training CD. Valueplus Publication Limited.
- Adebisi, A. J. (2013). Fundamentals of Computer Studies. Nigeria: Expert Consults.
- Adedapo, F. O., Mitchell, A. S. & Agunbiade, D. A. Online with Computer Senior Secondary 2. Rasmed Publications.
- Brookshear, J. G. (1991). Computer Science: An Overview. Benjamin-Cummings Publishing Co. Inc.
- Chiemeke, S. C., Boukari, S. & Longe, O. B. Computer Studies for Senior Secondary Schools. University Press Plc.
- Doyle, S. (1995). Computer Studies for You (2nd ed.). USA: Nelson Thornes Ltd.
- Driscoll, T. & Dolden, R. (1998). Computer Studies and Information Technology (The Motivate Series). Nigeria: Macmillan Education.
- Henderson, P. (1987). Modern Introductory Computer Science. Proceedings of the Eighteenth SIGCSE Technical Symposium on Computer Science Education, 183-190.
- HiiT School. Computer Studies for Senior Secondary Education. HiiT.
- Ojo, D. J. (2018). SSCE on Data Processing: Past Questions and Answers (2014-2020). TONAD Publishers Limited.
- Otuka, J. O. E., Akande, A. F. & Iginla, S. I. (2019). New Computer Studies 1-3. Learn Africa.
- SSCE/NECO. Past Questions and Answers on Computer Studies (Theory/Objectives).
- Sloan, R. H. & Troy, P. (2008). CS 0.5: a better approach to introductory computer science for majors. ACM SIGCSE Bulletin, 40(1), 271-275.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How is the JAMB UTME Computer Studies syllabus structured?
- It is organized into nine sections (A to I): Evolution of Computing; Fundamentals of Computing; Computer Application Packages; Managing Computer Files; Computer Maintenance and Safety Measures; Information & Communication Technology (ICT); Developing Problem-Solving Skills; Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotics; and Computer Ethics and Human Issues. Each topic lists the content to study and the objectives candidates should be able to demonstrate.
- How many questions does JAMB set in Computer Studies and how are they scored?
- The UTME Computer Studies paper carries 40 multiple-choice questions, each worth 2.5 marks for a total of 100 marks. As with all UTME papers, it is computer-based (CBT).
- What are the main focus areas of the syllabus?
- The biggest weight is on the fundamentals of computing (hardware, software, the CPU and memory), application packages (word processing, spreadsheet, database, presentation, graphics and web design), ICT and the internet, and problem-solving skills (algorithms, flowcharts, programming languages and the system development life cycle). Newer additions cover artificial intelligence, robotics and cyber security/ethics.
- Does the Computer Studies syllabus include programming?
- Yes. The 'Developing Problem-Solving Skills' section covers programming languages and their classification, high-level languages, algorithms and flowcharts, programming language structure (statements, operators, data types), program development steps and the system development life cycle (SDLC). You should be able to draw flowcharts and explain program development, though you are not asked to write full programs.
- What application packages should I study for the exam?
- The syllabus names specific packages: word processing (mainly MS Word), spreadsheets (MS Excel), databases (MS Access), presentation software (MS PowerPoint), graphics (CorelDraw) and web design (Dreamweaver). Know the purpose, key features and basic operations of each.
- Are artificial intelligence and robotics really on the JAMB Computer Studies syllabus?
- Yes. A dedicated section covers AI (its definition, branches such as machine learning, neural networks, expert systems, fuzzy logic, NLP and deep learning, and its application areas) and the fundamentals of robotics (robot components, types and application areas).
- What does the Computer Ethics and Human Issues section cover?
- It deals with ethical issues in computing, computer security, and cyber risks and protection: computer-related crime, responsibility for computer failure, protecting computer property/records/software, privacy, the CIA triad (confidentiality, integrity, availability), common cyber threats and safety tips. It also points to career prospects and higher studies in computing.
- Where can I find the official Computer Studies syllabus?
- The official source is the JAMB e-syllabus on IBASS (ibass.jamb.gov.ng) at jamb.gov.ng. Because the IBASS site is a web app, many students read the same content on reputable mirrors such as myschool.ng. Always confirm details against the official JAMB syllabus.
Source: the official JAMB UTME syllabus (jamb.gov.ng / IBASS). Always confirm details against the official syllabus.