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Learning Guide Unit 2
Site: University of the People Printed by: Waseem Saeed
Course: CS 1111-01 Introduction to computer Science - AY2025-T5 Date: Friday, 20 June 2025, 5:20 AM
Book: Learning Guide Unit 2
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Description
Learning Guide Unit 2
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Table of contents
Overview
Introduction
Reading Assignment
Assignment Activity
Self-Quiz
Checklist
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Overview
UNIT 2: Number Systems and Codes
Topics
Number systems: Binary, decimal, octal, hexadecimal
Base conversions: Decimal to binary, octal to binary, hexadecimal to binary, and vice versa
Coding representation: ASCII, Unicode, Gray code, BCD, and EBCDIC
Learning Objectives
By the end of this Unit, you will be able to:
1. Explain the conversion of numbers between binary, decimal, octal, and hexadecimal number systems.
2. Compare and contrast the different coding representations in terms of character set size, compatibility, and usage in
various industries.
Tasks
Read through the Learning Guide and the Reading Assignment.
Complete and submit the Assignment Activity.
Take and submit the Self-Quiz.
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Introduction
Welcome to unit 2! In Unit 2, you will delve into the fundamental concepts of Number Systems and Codes, exploring key topics that form
the foundation of digital information representation. You will embark on a journey to understand the intricate world of number systems
and coding schemes, essential components of digital computing and information processing. The aim of this unit is to equip you with a
robust understanding of number systems and coding schemes, laying the foundation for efficient digital information representation.
This unit begins with a comprehensive exploration of the binary, decimal, octal, and hexadecimal number systems. These systems are
the bedrock of digital computing, serving as the fundamental languages for representing numerical values. You will explore the binary,
decimal, octal, and hexadecimal number systems, understanding their significance in digital computing and information processing. A
crucial aspect of this unit revolves around mastering the art of converting numbers between different bases. From Decimal to Binary,
Octal to Binary, Hexadecimal to Binary, and vice versa, you will be equipped with the essential skills for seamless translation between
these numerical languages. This proficiency is paramount for understanding and manipulating digital data, forming the backbone of
many computational processes. An exploration of coding schemes is integral to this unit.
As the unit progresses, the focus will be shifted to the intricate world of coding schemes, unraveling the diverse ways in which data is
represented and communicated in the digital realm. We will examine ASCII, Unicode, Gray code, Binary Coded Decimal (BCD), and
Extended Binary Coded Decimal Interchange Code (EBCDIC). Understanding these representations is crucial for effective data encoding
and communication.
Consider answering the following questions:
1. How do binary, decimal, octal, and hexadecimal number systems differ, and what are their respective applications in computing?
2. How is conversion of binary, decimal, octal, and hexadecimal numbers performed?
3. Explain the purpose of Binary Coded Decimal (BCD) and its applications in computing.
4. Why is understanding base conversions crucial in the context of computer science and digital information processing?
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Reading Assignment
For Number Systems and Base Conversions read:
1. Ndjountche, T. (2016). Digital electronics 1: Combinational logic circuits. John Wiley & Sons, Incorporated.
Log into the UoPeople library and go to LIRN. Click on Access to Library and Information Resource Network, go to Computer
Science and click on EBook Central. Search for the entire name of the ebook. Use the Learning Resource Center to read on how to
use the online library.
View the online book.
Read Chapter 1 - Number Systems (pp. 20 to pp.26)
Section 1.1: Introduction
Section 1.2: Decimal numbers
Section 1.3: Binary numbers
Section 1.4: Octal numbers
Section 1.5: Hexadecimal numeration
Section 1.6: Representation in a radix B
Through these readings, you will learn the foundational concepts of number systems and their significance in digital computation. You
will acquire a comprehensive understanding of decimal, binary, octal, and hexadecimal numeration. It will help you develop the skills to
represent and manipulate numbers in different bases.
For Coding Representation: ASCII, Unicode, Gray code, BCD, and EBCDIC read:
1. Ndjountche T. (2016). Digital electronics 1: Combinational logic circuits. John Wiley & Sons, Incorporated.
Log into the UoPeople library and go to LIRN. Click on Access to Library and Information Resource Network, go to Computer
Science and click on EBook Central. Search for the entire name of the ebook Use the Learning Resource Center to read on how to
use the online library.
View the online book.
Read Chapter 1 - Number Systems
Section 1.7 - Binary-coded decimal numbers (pp.26 to pp.27)
In Example 1.7 (Section 1.6, p. 25), the binary number 110101 is mistakenly changed to 110111 in the explanation.
Kindly consider it as 110111.
Section 1.12 - Data Representation (pp. 46 to pp. 49)
1.12.1 - Gray code
1.12.3 - ASCII code
1.12.4 - Other codes
2. Robertson, S. (2020). B c, before computers: On information technology from writing to the age of digital data. Open Book
Publishers.
Log into the UoPeople library and go to LIRN. Click on Access to Library and Information Resource Network, go to Computer
Science and click on EBook Central. Search for the entire name of the ebook Use the Learning Resource Center to read on how to
use the online library.
View the online book.
Chapter 5: More about the alphabets
Read Section: Coding for the modern era (pp.53 to pp. 54)
The readings (Number 1 and Number 2) will help you to gain a comprehensive understanding of various coding representations, their
characteristics, applications, and the implications of choosing one over another in different contexts within the realm of information
technology and computer science. You will be exploring real-world applications and scenarios where different coding representations
are commonly used.
Video
For Number Systems: Binary, decimal, octal, hexadecimal watch:
1. The Organic Chemistry Tutor. (2021, January 15). Number Systems Introduction - Decimal, binary, octal & Hexadecimal [Video].
YouTube.
In this video, you will learn about the four fundamental number systems used in computer science—binary, decimal, octal, and
hexadecimal. You will understand how each system works, their bases, and how they are used to represent and process data in
digital electronics and computing. This is a perfect starting point for building a strong foundation in digital logic and computer
architecture.
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Number Systems Introduction - Decimal, Binary, Octal & He…
He…
For Base conversions: Decimal to binary, octal to binary, hexadecimal to binary, and vice versa watch:
1. The Organic Chemistry Tutor. (2021, January 15). Number Systems Introduction - Decimal, binary, octal & Hexadecimal [Video].
YouTube.
In this video, you will learn about the four key number systems used in computing: decimal, binary, octal, and hexadecimal. You will
understand their bases, how to read and write numbers in each system, and why these number systems are essential for digital
electronics and computer science.
Number Systems Introduction - Decimal, Binary, Octal & He…
He…
2. ALL ABOUT ELECTRONICS. (2021, March 24). Binary Number System: Counting in binary number system | Binary to decimal
conversion [Video]. YouTube.
In this video, you will learn how the binary number system works, including how to count in binary and convert binary numbers to
decimal. This fundamental concept is crucial for understanding how computers represent and process data at the most basic level.
Binary Number System: Counting in Binary Number System…
System…
3. ALL ABOUT ELECTRONICS. (2021, March 30). Decimal to Binary Conversion Explained (with Solved Examples) [Video]. YouTube.
In this video, you will learn how to convert decimal numbers to binary through clear, step-by-step explanations and solved
examples. This skill is fundamental for understanding how computers process and represent numerical data.
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Decimal to Binary Conversion Explained (with Solved Exam…
Exam…
4. ALL ABOUT ELECTRONICS. (2021, July 27). Octal and hexadecimal number system explained [Video]. YouTube.
In this video, you will learn about the octal and hexadecimal number systems, including their bases, how to read and write numbers
in these systems, and their significance in simplifying binary representations in computing.
Octal and Hexadecimal Number System Explained
For Coding representation: ASCII, Unicode, Gray code, BCD, and EBCDIC watch:
1. ALL ABOUT ELECTRONICS. (2021, August 2). Binary codes: Classification of binary codes explained [Video]. YouTube.
In this video, you will learn about the classification of binary codes, including different types such as BCD, Gray code, ASCII, and
more. You’ll understand how these codes represent data in digital systems and why specific codes are used for particular
applications.
Binary Codes: Classification of Binary Codes Explained
Optional Video:
1. Info Pack. (2020, April 8). Number System Conversion Techniques |Very Easy|Fast |Decimal |Binary|Octal |Hexadecimal| [Video].
YouTube.
In this video, you will learn quick and easy techniques to convert numbers between decimal, binary, octal, and hexadecimal
systems. The methods demonstrated will help you perform conversions faster and with greater confidence.
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Number System Conversion Techniques |Very Easy|Fast |D…
|D…
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Assignment Activity
Assignment Instructions
In this assignment, you will be able to examine, identify, and apply the basic concepts of number systems.
Scenario: Envision yourself working at a technology company specializing in software development for various industries. One day, your
supervisor hands you a task to convert a set of decimal numbers into their binary, octal, and hexadecimal equivalents for a project that
involves encoding and decoding data. The numbers are critical for a system that communicates with different devices using specific
coding representations.
1. Explain the process you would follow to convert the given decimal numbers to binary, octal, and hexadecimal representations.
Take the first three digits of your birthdate as a single number (e.g., if your birthdate is 28-11-1982, use 281). Convert this number
into binary, octal, and hexadecimal formats. Present your conversion process step-by-step, with an explanation for each step.
Make sure you take your birthdate as a number, not 281.
2. Why is it important to be proficient in converting between different number systems in a technical industry job? Provide at least
two practical use cases or job functions where this skill is essential.
3. In your role on this project, you are also tasked with selecting a suitable coding representation (e.g., ASCII, Unicode, Gray code,
BCD, EBCDIC) for communicating data between systems. Compare at least three of these representations based on character set
size, compatibility, typical applications, and efficiency. Which coding representation would you recommend for this particular task
and why?
4. Provide an example of a situation where choosing the right coding representation could be crucial for the success of a project.
Explain the outcome if the wrong choice had been made.
Instructions
Read the rubric on how you are going to be graded before you start to work on this assignment.
Your assignment should be a minimum of 500 words and not more than 750 words (not including the reference list or the title);
double-spaced in Times New Roman font, which is no greater than 12 points in size.
You can submit your assignment either directly in the submission area, or in cases involving special symbols, you may attach a
Word/PDF document.
Use in-text citations to properly attribute information, ideas, or quotes that are not your own. Format your references according to
APA guidelines. For assistance with APA formatting, view the Learning Resource Center: Academic Writing.
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Self-Quiz
The Self-Quiz gives you an opportunity to self-assess your knowledge of what you have learned so far.
The results of the Self-Quiz do not count towards your final grade. However,the quiz is an important part of the University’s learning
process and it is expected that you will take it to ensure understanding of the materials presented. Reviewing and analyzing your results
will help you perform better on future Graded Quizzes and the Final Exam.
Please access the Self-Quiz on the main course homepage; it is listed inside the Unit.
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Checklist
Read through the Learning Guide and the Reading Assignment.
Complete and submit the Assignment Activity.
Take and submit the Self-Quiz.
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