This sheet suggests how AfT2 - Bar Codes could be used as part of a module of work. It is anticipated that some theoretical work on supermarket computer systems would be covered before this practical work was undertaken.
Resources:
A database of grocery items.
A selection of boxes and wrappers for grocery and other items, which carry EAN bar codes.
Preferably one or more bar code scanners with keyboard wedge interfaces (not essential, but very useful).
Module of Work - Instructions for Students
Make notes on the constituent parts of the EAN codes and on some of the other bar code systems.
Check digit calculations. Find out how check digits are calculated, by working through this section. You should visit each menu option at least once. When you have finished there is a test to see what you have learned about bar codes so far. When you have completed the test, print out your results and glue them into your exercise book.
Open up the database DAT4. From the collection of packages, select ten items and add them to the database. Save the database under a new name.
Edit the receipt format and save the database again.
Scan a selection of items and print out one or two sample receipts.
What can you do if you enter the wrong bar code by mistake?
How do you tell the computer that you have finished entering bar codes?
Write your answers in your exercise book.
Carry out the speed test. Select 10-20 different packages with bar codes on them. Each bar code can only be entered once, so do not choose duplicate packages. You will have to enter the bar codes manually, via the keyboard and then using a bar code scanner. The computer will compare your performance on the two different methods. Copy your results (times and error rates) into your exercise book.
Write a paragraph or two on what you have learnt from the speed test. Think about how much more work you could get through using a bar code scanner. Also consider the effect of fatigue and accuracy on your productivity, as well as any general Health and Safety at Work issues. Why will the keyboard option always be available?