Edited by Toluwalase Solanke and Olorundare Oluwapelumi
Table of Contents
Step I – Introduction
Whether you use the internet to learn about a certain topic, complete financial transactions online, order food, etc. Data is being generated every single second. The use of social media, online shopping and video streaming services have all added to the increase in the amount of data. To utilise and get insights from such huge amounts of data, the processing of data comes into play.
Moving forward, let us understand what data processing is.
Step II – Defining Data Processing
This is the method of collecting raw data and translating it into usable information. It can also be defined as turning data into usable information, which is useful for science and data management.
It also involves translating raw data into readable, usable information such as graphs, charts, and documents that an organisation can use.
Step III – Data Processing Life Cycle
This consists of a series of steps where raw data (input) is fed into a system to produce actionable insights (output). Each step is taken in a specific order, but the entire process is repeated cyclically.
Generally, there are six main steps in the data processing cycle:
Step 1: Collection
The collection of raw data is the first step of the processing cycle. The type of raw data collected has a huge impact on the output produced. Hence, raw data should be gathered from defined and accurate sources so that the subsequent findings are valid and usable.
Step 2: Preparation
Data preparation or data cleaning is the process of sorting and filtering the raw data to remove unnecessary and inaccurate data. Raw data is checked for errors, duplication, miscalculations, or missing data and transformed into a suitable form for further analysis and processing.
Step 3: Input
In this step, the raw data is converted into machine-readable form and fed into the processing unit. This can be in the form of data entry through a keyboard, scanner, or any other input source.
Step 4: Processing of Data
In this step, the raw data is subjected to various data processing methods using machine learning and artificial intelligence algorithms to generate a desirable output.
Step 5: Output
The data is finally transmitted and displayed to the user in a readable form like graphs, tables, vector files, audio, video, documents, etc. This output can be stored and further processed in the next processing cycle.
Step 6: Storage
The last step of the cycle is storage, where data and metadata are stored for further use. This allows for quick access and retrieval of information whenever needed and also allows it to be used as input in the next processing cycle directly.
Evaluation: The teacher evaluates the lesson by asking the students some few questions to answer.
Summary: The teacher summarises the lesson once again to the students.
Final Thoughts
The teacher concludes the lesson by going around the class checking the students’ notes and assisting them where necessary. Finally, the teacher gives the assignment.
Assignment Questions: – Explain vivdly the following:
- Machine learning
- Artificial intelligence
- Algorithm
Read also: Data And Information SS1 Data Processing
