Run length encoding
I can describe and use run length encoding to compress data.
Run length encoding
I can describe and use run length encoding to compress data.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- Run length encoding is a lossless data compression technique that reduces the size of repeating sequences of data.
- Run length encoding uses the concept of redundancy to reduce file size.
- Redundancy is about the repetitive information within a data set, which can be removed without losing essential meaning.
- Run length encoding may not always reduce file size and may not be suitable for all applications.
Keywords
Run length encoding - a common type of lossless compression
Data pattern - parts that repeat or follow a regular order
Redundancy - repeated or extra data that isn’t needed
Common misconception
Run length encoding always reduces file size.
Run length encoding only works well when data has long repeated patterns. If data is random or has frequent changes, RLE may not reduce the file size and can even make it bigger. For example, compressing "HELLO" with RLE results in "1H1E2L1O".
To help you plan your year 10 computer science lesson on: Run length encoding, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 10 computer science lesson on: Run length encoding, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
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