Discovering Computers 2018 Module 1

These advanced technologies have revolutionized the way we live and work, enabling fast access to vast amounts of information, seamless communication, and innovative opportunities for collaboration and invention.

• The module covers the basics of computers, devices, and the web, including digital technology, data, and devices.

Types of Computers and Devices

• Laptops, tablets, desktops, and servers are different types of computers.
• Smartphones, digital cameras, portable and digital media players, e-book readers, wearable devices, and game devices are examples of devices.

Data refers to the raw, unorganized facts and figures collected from various sources, such as sensors, databases, or user input. It lacks context, relevance, and meaning, and requires processing and analysis to be turned into usable information.

• Data is the raw, unorganized facts and figures, while information is the organized, processed, and analyzed data.
• Output devices convey information from a computer or mobile device to one or more people, such as printers, displays, and speakers.
• A printer produces text and graphics on a physical medium, like paper, and can also print 3D solid objects.
• A display visually conveys text, graphics, and video information.
• Speakers allow users to hear audio, such as music, voice, and other sounds.

The web is a global network of interconnected documents and resources, providing a platform for sharing information, communication, and collaboration.

• The World Wide Web (or web) is a global library of information available to anyone connected to the Internet.
• The web consists of a worldwide collection of electronic documents, each called a webpage.
• A website is a collection of related webpages.
• A web server is a computer that delivers requested webpages to a computer or mobile device.
• A browser is software that enables users to access and view webpages on a computer or mobile device.
• A search engine is software that finds websites, webpages, images, videos, news, maps, and other information related to a specific topic.
• An online social network is a website that encourages members to share their interests, ideas, stories, photos, music, and videos with other registered users.

Ensuring the secure and safe online experience involves being aware of potential threats and taking necessary precautions to protect personal data, prevent unauthorized access, and maintain the integrity of digital communications. This includes use of strong passwords, keeping software and systems up-to-date, being cautious when clicking on links or downloading attachments, and utilizing reputable antivirus and anti-malware tools.

• It is important to protect computers and mobile devices from digital threats, such as viruses and other malware, privacy concerns, health concerns, and environmental issues.
• Green computing involves reducing the electricity consumed and environmental waste generated when using a computer.

Programs and apps are among the most common routes for digital threats, as they can be infected with malware that can compromise the security of personal data.

• Software (or program) tells the computer what tasks to perform and how to perform them.
• System software includes operating systems and tools.
• Operating systems manage computer resources and provide a platform for running applications.
• Tools are software that helps with system management and maintenance.

Learn about digital technology, data, and devices. This module introduces today's technologies, including computers, devices, and the web.