Cloud Computing, AI, VR & AR Grade 12
Grade 12 Term 2 theory: cloud computing, Artificial Intelligence, Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality, Mixed Reality and virtualisation — all new Software topics in the updated CAPS.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
AI refers to computer systems that can perform tasks that normally require human intelligence — such as learning, reasoning, decision-making and pattern recognition.
What is AI used for?
- Virtual assistants (Siri, Google Assistant, Alexa)
- Recommendations (Netflix, Spotify, YouTube suggest content)
- Fraud detection in banking
- Medical diagnosis support
- Autonomous vehicles (self-driving cars)
- Chatbots for customer service
- Image and facial recognition
Advantages of AI
- Processes vast amounts of data faster than humans
- Works 24/7 without breaks or fatigue
- Reduces human error in repetitive tasks
- Enables automation of complex processes
Disadvantages and Limitations of AI
- Can be biased if trained on biased data
- Job displacement — automating roles previously done by humans
- No true understanding or common sense — only pattern matching
- Security risks — AI can be used to create deepfakes or power cyberattacks
- Expensive to develop and maintain
- Privacy concerns with data collection required for AI training
Cloud Computing
Software, storage and computing power delivered as a service over the Internet, rather than installed locally.
| Advantage | Disadvantage |
|---|---|
| Scalable — capacity grows automatically | Requires internet connection |
| Affordable — pay only for what you use | Downtime affects all users |
| Accessible from any device anywhere | Security and privacy concerns |
| Maintained by experts; always updated | Ongoing subscription costs |
| Easy collaboration between users | Limited control over infrastructure |
SaaS — Software as a Service
Applications accessed via browser with no local installation. Examples: Google Docs, Microsoft 365, Gmail.
Effect on Hardware
Cloud reduces the need for powerful local hardware — thin clients and low-spec devices can run complex software via the cloud. Businesses no longer need to buy expensive servers.
Virtualisation
Running multiple virtual machines on a single physical computer. Each VM has its own OS, RAM, storage and apps, isolated from others.
Benefits
- Cost savings — fewer physical servers needed
- Test operating systems safely without affecting main computer
- Disaster recovery — VM images can be backed up and restored
- Green IT — fewer machines, less power and cooling
Virtual Reality (VR)
A fully artificial, immersive 3D environment created by software. The user is completely cut off from the real world.
| Use Case | Example |
|---|---|
| Training | Military simulations, surgical training |
| Education | Virtual field trips, interactive lessons |
| Entertainment | VR gaming, virtual cinemas |
| Healthcare | Phobia treatment, pain management |
| Engineering | Virtual prototypes, architectural walkthroughs |
Hardware Requirements for VR
- VR headset (e.g. Meta Quest, PlayStation VR)
- Powerful GPU for real-time 3D rendering
- Motion controllers / tracking sensors
- High-speed processor and sufficient RAM
Augmented Reality (AR)
Overlays computer-generated content on the real world — you still see reality, with digital elements added.
| Use Case | Example |
|---|---|
| Retail | Preview furniture in your room before buying |
| Training | Step-by-step repair instructions overlaid on equipment |
| Navigation | AR arrows overlaid on road view |
| Marketing | Interactive product advertisements |
Limitations of AR
- Rendering meaningful, realistic graphics is challenging
- Scaling digital objects to the correct perspective is difficult
- Smartphones have limited storage, processing power and battery