Domain I—Foundations of Computer-Based Technology

Hardware Components

• CPU (Central Processing Unit): The brain of the computer that performs instructions defined by software.
• RAM (Random Access Memory): Temporary storage that provides space for the computer to read and write data to be accessed by the CPU quickly.
• ROM (Read-Only Memory): Non-volatile memory used to store firmware.
• Storage Devices: HDD (Hard Disk Drive) and SSD (Solid State Drive) for long-term data storage.
• Input Devices: Keyboard, mouse, scanner, microphone.
• Output Devices: Monitor, printer, speakers.

Software

• Operating Systems (OS): Software that manages computer hardware and software resources, e.g., Windows, macOS, Linux.
• Application Software: Programs designed for end-users, such as word processors, spreadsheets, and databases.
• System Software: Includes the operating system and utility programs that manage computer resources.

Networking

• LAN (Local Area Network): A network that connects computers within a limited area.
• WAN (Wide Area Network): A network that covers a broad area, such as multiple buildings or cities.
• IP Address: A unique string of numbers separated by periods that identifies each computer using the Internet Protocol to communicate over a network.
• MAC Address: A unique identifier assigned to network interfaces for communications on the physical network segment.
• Router: A device that forwards data packets between computer networks.
• Switch: A device that filters and forwards packets between LAN segments.
• Firewall: A network security system that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic.

Internet and Web

• HTTP (HyperText Transfer Protocol): The foundation of any data exchange on the Web.
• HTTPS (HyperText Transfer Protocol Secure): An extension of HTTP with security capabilities.
• URL (Uniform Resource Locator): The address of a resource on the internet.
• DNS (Domain Name System): The system that translates domain names into IP addresses.

Programming and Development

• Algorithm: A step-by-step procedure for solving a problem.
• Programming Languages: Languages used to create software applications, e.g., Python, Java, C++.
• HTML (HyperText Markup Language): The standard language for documents designed to be displayed in a web browser.
• CSS (Cascading Style Sheets): A style sheet language used for describing the presentation of a document written in HTML.
• JavaScript: A programming language commonly used in web development for creating interactive effects within web browsers.

Cybersecurity

• Encryption: The process of converting information or data into a code to prevent unauthorized access.
• Malware: Malicious software designed to harm, exploit, or otherwise compromise a computer system.
• Phishing: A technique used to gain personal information for the purpose of identity theft, usually by means of fraudulent emails.

Databases

• Database Management System (DBMS): Software for creating and managing databases.
• SQL (Structured Query Language): A standard programming language for managing and manipulating databases.
• Relational Database: A database structured to recognize relations among stored items of information.### Computer Networks
• A network switch connects multiple Ethernet devices, making them act as a single network segment.
• Unlike a hub, a switch doesn't broadcast data to all devices, reducing collisions.

Network Protocols

• TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol):
  • Ensures reliable data transmission and handles addressing and routing.
• HTTP/HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol/Secure):
  • Protocols for transferring web pages on the internet, with HTTPS including encryption for security.
• FTP (File Transfer Protocol):
  • Used for transferring files between computers on a network.
• SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol):
  • Protocol for sending email messages between servers.

Network Security

• Firewall:
  • A security device or software that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules.
• VPN (Virtual Private Network):
  • Creates a secure connection over a public network, encrypting data transmitted between the user's device and the internet.
• Encryption:
  • The process of converting data into a coded format to prevent unauthorized access.

IP Addressing

• IPv4:
  • The most common version of IP, using 32-bit addresses (e.g., 192.168.0.1), limited to approximately 4.3 billion unique addresses.
• IPv6:
  • The newer version of IP, using 128-bit addresses (e.g., 2001:0db8:85a3:0000:0000:8a2e:0370:7334), providing a virtually unlimited number of unique addresses.
• Static IP Address:
  • A permanent IP address assigned to a device.
• Dynamic IP Address:
  • An IP address assigned by a DHCP server that can change over time.

Wireless Networking

• Wi-Fi:
  • Wireless technology allowing devices to connect to a network using radio waves.
• Bluetooth:
  • Short-range wireless technology for connecting personal devices.
• Cellular Networks:
  • Mobile networks providing internet access and communication through cellular towers.

Common Networking Terms

• Bandwidth:
  • The maximum rate of data transfer across a network path, measured in bits per second (bps).
• Latency:
  • The delay before a transfer of data begins following an instruction, measured in milliseconds (ms).
• Packet:
  • A small unit of data transmitted over a network, containing both the data being sent and control information for routing.
• Subnet:
  • A logical subdivision of an IP network, used to improve network performance and security.
• MAC Address:
  • A unique identifier assigned to network interfaces for communications on the physical network segment.

Software in Educational Settings

• Learning Management Systems (LMS):
  • Examples: Canvas, Blackboard, Moodle (open source)
  • Purpose: Manage course content, assignments, grading, and communication between teachers and students.
• Educational Software and Apps:
  • Examples: Khan Academy, Duolingo, Quizlet, Seesaw
  • Purpose: Provide interactive learning experiences, tutorials, quizzes, and educational games to enhance student learning.
• Office Productivity Suites:
  • Examples: Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Slides), LibreOffice (open source)
  • Purpose: Create and manage documents, spreadsheets, and presentations.
• Collaboration Tools:
  • Examples: Microsoft Teams, Slack, Zoom, Google Meet
  • Purpose: Facilitate communication and collaboration among students and teachers through chat, video conferencing, and file sharing.

Key Concepts

• Software Licensing:
  • Proprietary Software: Requires purchase or subscription and has restrictions on usage and modification.
  • Open Source Software: Free to use, modify, and distribute, encouraging community collaboration and transparency.
• Integration and Compatibility:
  • APIs (Application Programming Interfaces): Allow different software systems to communicate and work together, enhancing functionality and integration.
  • Interoperability: Ensures different systems and software can work together seamlessly, critical for efficient administrative and educational operations.
• Cloud-Based vs. On-Premises:
  • Cloud-Based Software: Hosted on remote servers and accessed via the internet, offering scalability and remote access.
  • On-Premises Software: Installed and run on local servers within the institution, providing more control over data and security.

Evaluating Technology Systems and Software

• Educational Relevance:
  • Curriculum Alignment: Ensure the software or system aligns with educational standards and curriculum goals.
  • Content Quality: Evaluate the accuracy, depth, and relevance of the content provided by the software.
  • Pedagogical Effectiveness: Assess whether the software supports effective teaching methods and learning styles.
• Usability:
  • Ease of Use: The software should be intuitive and easy to navigate for both students and teachers.
  • User Interface: A clean, organized, and visually appealing interface that enhances user experience.
  • Accessibility: Ensure the software is accessible to all students, including those with disabilities.

Installation and Configuration of Hardware and Software

• Hardware Installation:
  • Preparation: Safety precautions, documentation, and physical installation of internal and external components.
• Software Installation:
  • Preparation: System requirements, backup, and installation process.
• Configuration of Hardware and Software:
  • BIOS/UEFI settings, device manager, and network configuration.
  • Operating system settings, device configuration, and network settings.

Troubleshooting Hardware and Software

• Hardware Troubleshooting:
  • Power issues, boot issues, peripheral problems, and troubleshooting steps.
• Software Troubleshooting:
  • System crashes, freezes, application errors, and network issues.

Practical Tips

• Documentation: Always document steps taken during installation, configuration, and troubleshooting.
• Backups: Regularly back up important data to avoid data loss during troubleshooting or reinstallation.
• Tools and Utilities:
  • System utilities, third-party tools, and staying updated with the latest patches and updates.

Organization of Technology Resources

• Inventory Management:
  • Asset tracking, labeling, and documentation.
• Resource Allocation:
  • Needs assessment, distribution, and usage monitoring.
• Scheduling:
  • Booking systems and maintenance schedules.

Management of Technology Resources

• IT Policies and Procedures:
  • Acceptable Use Policies (AUP), BYOD policies, software licensing, and technical support.
• Technical Support:
  • Help desk, training, and maintenance.
• Data Management:
  • Backup solutions, data retention policies, cloud storage, and security measures.

Security of Technology Resources

• Physical Security:
  • Secure access, surveillance, and limiting access to authorized personnel.
• Data Security:
  • Encryption, secure protocols, and secure data transmission.### Locking Mechanisms
• Use locks and cables to secure devices in classrooms and labs.

Network Security

• Implement firewalls to protect the network from unauthorized access and cyber attacks.
• Install and regularly update antivirus and anti-malware software on all devices.
• Use encryption for sensitive data, both in transit and at rest, to prevent unauthorized access.

Access Control

• Create individual user accounts for students and staff with appropriate access levels.
• Enforce strong password policies and require regular password changes.
• Implement two-factor authentication (2FA) for accessing sensitive systems and data.

Incident Response

• Develop an incident response plan for addressing security breaches and other emergencies.
• Conduct regular drills to ensure that staff and students are prepared to respond to security incidents.
• Have procedures in place for investigating security incidents and collecting evidence.

Compliance

• Ensure compliance with FERPA, CIPA, and COPPA regarding student data privacy.

Best Practices

• Conduct regular audits of technology resources and security measures to identify and address vulnerabilities.
• Invest in ongoing professional development for IT staff to keep them up-to-date with the latest technologies and security practices.
• Involve all stakeholders in the planning and implementation of technology initiatives.
• Establish feedback mechanisms to gather input on technology usage and issues.

Adaptive Assistive Technology

Input Devices

• Alternative keyboards, such as BigKeys and IntelliKeys, aid students with physical disabilities.
• Mouse alternatives, such as trackballs, joysticks, or head-operated pointers, replace standard mice.
• Speech recognition software, like Dragon NaturallySpeaking and Windows Speech Recognition, allows voice control.
• Switches, such as Sip-and-Puff Switch and Button Switches, can be activated by pressing, puffing, or blinking.

Output Devices

• Screen readers, like JAWS and NVDA, read text aloud for visually impaired students.
• Braille displays, such as Refreshable Braille Display, convert text to Braille.
• Text-to-Speech (TTS) software, like Kurzweil 3000 and NaturalReader, converts written text to spoken words.

Communication Devices

• Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices, like Dynavox and Tobii Communicator, aid students with speech disorders.
• Speech Generating Devices (SGDs), such as GoTalk and Proloquo2Go, produce spoken words for non-speaking individuals.

Mobility Aids

• Wheelchair-accessible desks and ergonomic furniture, like Adjustable Height Desks and Ergonomic Chairs, provide comfort and accessibility.

Learning Aids

• Software, such as Read&Write and Inspiration, supports students with learning disabilities.
• Visual aids, like ZoomText and Electronic Magnifiers, assist visually impaired students.
• Hearing aids and assistive listening devices, such as FM Systems and Cochlear Implants, amplify sound or provide alternative access to audio information.

Environmental Control Systems

• Smart home devices, like Alexa and Google Home, allow students to control their environment using voice commands or switches.

Implementing Adaptive Assistive Technology

• Ensure that assistive technology is included in the student's Individualized Education Program (IEP).
• Provide training and support for teachers, students, and parents on assistive technology use.
• Collaborate with specialists to identify the most appropriate technology solutions.
• Continuously assess the effectiveness of assistive technology and make necessary adjustments.

Best Practices for Teachers

• Understand acceptable use policies governing technology use.
• Manage technology resources and equipment.
• Integrate technology effectively into curriculum and instructional practices.
• Engage in professional development opportunities for technology integration.
• Promote equitable access to technology resources for all students.