Introduction to Computers

Computer Basics

• A computer is an electronic tool that facilitates the input, processing, and output of information.
• The internet refers to the worldwide network of computers.
• The CPU (Central Processing Unit) is the brain of the computer, responsible for calculations, movement, and information processing.
• An input device is a part of a computer that allows a user to input information.
• An icon is a small picture that represents a folder, program, or other items on a computer.
• RAM (Random Access Memory) is a computer's short-term memory that is lost when the computer is turned off.
• The motherboard is the computer part that connects all other components, enabling them to communicate and work together.
• Hardware describes the physical components of a computer.
• Output devices allow the user to see or hear information produced by the computer.
• A hard drive is the computer part that stores programs and information on two or more disks within the computer
• A disk drive is the computer part that reads information from a disk.
• Software is another term for computer programs.
• The operating system is the program that controls a computer's basic functions.

Computer Ethics

• Bullying someone in the hallway is not an example of cyberbullying.
• Copying and pasting a sentence from the Internet into your paper constitutes plagiarism.
• Community service is not a consequence of copying or distributing copyrighted software.
• Information privacy involves ensuring the privacy and confidentiality of user data.
• "Thou shalt not use a computer to email" is not a rule listed in Computer Discovery's Ten Commandments of Computer Ethics.
• "Thou shalt not let others borrow your computer" is not a rule listed in Computer Discovery's Ten Commandments of Computer Ethics.
• One should not create harmful software or games.