Overview of ICT and Technology

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Questions and Answers

What does ICT stand for?

Information and Communications Technology

Define technology according to Merriam-Webster.

The practical application of knowledge in a particular area.

Which generation of computer technology used vacuum tubes?

First Generation (correct)

Fourth Generation

Second Generation

Third Generation

What was one of the advantages of transistors over vacuum tubes?

Less use of power Signup and view all the answers

The age of connectivity is considered the _____ generation of computer technology.

fifth Signup and view all the answers

Integrated circuits were developed after transistors.

True Signup and view all the answers

Name one setback of vacuum tubes in early computers.

Large use of power Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is not a technology involved in ICT?

Solar panels Signup and view all the answers

What is an online system?

An application or information system that is connected to a network and is ready to use by other computers or devices. Signup and view all the answers

What is an online platform?

Digital services that facilitate interactions between users through a network, particularly the Internet. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following are types of online platforms? (Select all that apply)

Social Networks Signup and view all the answers

Search engines allow users to browse physical stores.

False Signup and view all the answers

Match the following types of online platforms with their descriptions:

Online Marketplaces = Facilitate shopping from multiple third parties Collaborative Economy = Peer-to-peer transactions to share assets Music & Video Sharing = Stream and share multimedia content Payment Systems = Facilitate cashless financial transactions Signup and view all the answers

The dedicated websites & applications that allow users to connect and share similar interests are called ______.

Social Networks Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Overview of ICT

Information and Communications Technology (ICT) encompasses all technologies enabling access, retrieval, storage, transmission, and manipulation of information in digital form.
ICT merges two main technologies: Computer Technology and Communications Technology.

Definition of Technology

Technology applies knowledge practically in specific fields, enhancing efficiency and problem-solving capabilities.
Billy Cox emphasizes that technology should enhance life, not dominate it.

Computer Technology

A computer is defined as a programmable machine that processes data into useful information for users.
Evolution of computer technology includes five generations:
- First Generation (1951-1957): Characterized by the use of vacuum tubes.
- Second Generation (1958-1963): Introduced transistors for better performance.
- Third Generation (1964-1969): Used integrated circuits for compactness.
- Fourth Generation (1970-1990): Featured microprocessors, increasing speed and efficiency.
- Fifth Generation (1991-Present): Marked the age of connectivity, emphasizing networking and internet integration.

Communications Technology

Involves methods and systems for communication over long distances, utilizing electromagnetic devices.
Plays a critical role in interpersonal and mass communication, supported by advancements in computer technology.

Applications of ICT in Everyday Life

ICT has numerous examples in daily activities such as:
- Online shopping and banking.
- Social networking and communication via email and messaging applications.
- Accessing information through search engines and websites.
- E-learning platforms and teleconferencing for education and meetings.

Benefits of ICT

Enhances productivity and efficiency in various sectors.
Facilitates access to information globally.
Encourages collaboration and communication across distances.
Supports innovation and the development of new technologies.

Evolution of Computer Technology: Vacuum Tubes

Developed by John Ambrose Fleming in 1904, vacuum tubes were crucial for early electronic devices.
Advantages include enabling radio, television, and early computers but had drawbacks such as high power consumption and large size.

Evolution of Computer Technology: Transistors

Invented in 1947 by John Bardeen, Walter Brattain, and William Shockley, transistors reduced power usage and size while increasing reliability and speed.
Significantly improved computing power compared to vacuum tubes.

Evolution of Computer Technology: Integrated Circuits

Integrated circuits (ICs) represent a substantial advancement in computer technology, allowing for miniaturization and increased performance.
Enabled the development of more complex and powerful computing systems.

Overview of ICT Online Systems and Platforms

Definition of Online Systems: Applications or information systems connected to a network, ready for use by computers or devices.
Definition of Online Platforms: Digital services facilitating interactions between users (individuals or organizations) over the Internet.

Types of Online Platforms

Online Marketplaces: Websites/apps that enable shopping from various third-party sources, where the marketplace operator processes transactions.
Collaborative/Sharing Economy: Platforms promoting peer-to-peer transactions for sharing idle assets and services or facilitating collaboration.
Communications: Services offering real-time voice, video, and messaging communication over networks.
Social Networks: Dedicated sites/apps that allow users to connect and share interests through groups and networks.
Search Engines: Websites/apps enabling users to search for internet content by entering keywords.
Maps: Platforms providing navigation and geographic information about locations worldwide.
News Aggregators: Web services that compile news stories and information, making them accessible in one location.
Music & Video Sharing: Platforms for streaming music/videos, allowing for sharing and downloading of multimedia content.
Payment Systems: Services that facilitate cashless transactions and financial processing online.
App Stores: Digital platforms for distributing software, allowing users to search for, buy, install, and review apps.

Implications for Society During COVID-19

Online systems and platforms have become essential for maintaining communication, accessing services, and supporting economic activities amidst the pandemic.

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Description

This quiz explores the fundamentals of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and the evolution of computer technology. You'll learn about the definition of technology, its applications, and the major generations of computer technology. Test your understanding of these critical concepts in the digital age.