Understanding ICT: Evolution and Impact

• Technology and industry trends, alongside societal and economic factors, create a complex environment. As society becomes more digital, the relationship between technology and people is constantly changing.

Introduction to ICT

• Information and Communication Technology (ICT) encompasses technologies that enhance communication. ICT facilitates broadcast media, networking, audiovisual processing, and transmission systems. This allows both individuals and organizations to interact within the digital world.

Web Generations

• Web technologies evolved from Web 1.0 to Web 2.0. Tim Berners-Lee created Web 1.0 in 1990, pioneering the technologies for the World Wide Web and the first browser.
• Web 2.0 marks a shift in internet usage over the last 15-20 years, allowing user-generated content to be instantly viewed globally. Innovations like internet access and social networks drove Web 2.0, expanding online interaction and utility.
• Web 3.0 aims for data decentralization across multiple locations rather than a single server. It embraces open-source software and greater user utility through machine learning for faster, more relevant results.

Convergent Technologies

• Convergent technologies combine two or more independent technologies into a new device. Smartphones integrate a telephone, camera, multimedia player, and navigation tool into one.
• Convergent technologies have three key characteristics: They can perform multiple functions, collect and use data to enhance user experience, and interconnect with other devices for universal access.

Social Use

• ICT advancements enable instant global connections through social media. These online platforms and tools allow publishing, sharing, and discussion of information. Examples include social networking sites, forums, community blogs, and video-hosting sites, all aimed towards faster and more interactive online communication.

Assistive Technology

• Assistive technology includes devices, applications, or equipment that aids people with disabilities in learning, communicating, and functioning comfortably.
• ChromeVox, a screen reader for Google Chrome, and Capti, which converts online books and documents to speech, are examples of assistive technology.
• Other examples include speech-to-text, transcription, subtitles, and magnifier applications.
• ICT enhances society's understanding of its benefits, empowering social changes.

Online Systems and Platforms

• Online systems and platforms offer various internet-based services. These include online marketplaces, search engines, creative content outlets, and communication platforms.

Marketplaces

• Online marketplaces involve sellers and buyers trading products and services on e-commerce websites. Lazada, Foodpanda, and Facebook Marketplace operate in the Philippines.
• Online businesses offer benefits such as 24/7 operation, additional income, and reduced marketing costs. Buyers can shop from home, compare prices, and have a wide range of options.

Search Engines

• Search engines are web-based tools designed to retrieve specific online information. Examples include Google, Yahoo!, and Microsoft Bing.
• Search engines use crawling, indexing, and ranking to generate results.

Search Engine Processes:

• Crawl: Web crawlers (spiders) search the internet for new sites and links.
• Index: Crawlers analyze, organize, and store gathered data in an index.
• Search: The engine translates inputted words using Natural Language Processing (NLP) to find matching web pages.
• Rank: Algorithms order search results based on keyword matching, content quality, and user personalization.

Creative Content Outlets

• Websites use various media to communicate about products, services, or brands.

Types of Creative Content:

• Blog: Written content by an individual or team (bloggers) on various topics. Platforms include WordPress, Tumblr, and LinkedIn.
• Video: Includes brand videos, animation, educational content, and vlogs. Common platforms are YouTube, streaming sites, and learning management systems.
• Infographics: Visual representations of data with minimal text, used for marketing, education, and social media. Online creative content includes art, literature, sound, and writings.

Communication Platforms

• Communication platforms facilitate better collaboration and connection.
• They are used by businesses, organizations, and individuals for faster information exchange.

Examples of Communication Platforms:

• Microsoft 365: includes MS Teams, OneDrive, and Office apps.
• Google Workspace: web-based tool includes Gmail, Google Drive, and Google Sheets.
• Dropbox: cloud-sharing solution for managing files

Online Safety, Security, and Etiquette

• Users should explore cyberspace with safety precautions, security measures, and proper online etiquette, alongside cyber laws.
• Online safety is defending against online dangers, and these are some major safety precautions:
  • Never trust anyone: In social media it can be easy to make connections, look for alternatives so information can't be used against you.
  • Do not disclose too much information: Limit personal information shared online to protect safety and mental health.
  • Cross-check a website: Verify links and spelling to avoid phishing.
  • Click links accordingly: Avoid clicking shortened links from unknown sources due to potential malware.

Online Security

• Online security safeguards confidential information against cyber threats.

Security Measures:

• Password Security: Use strong passwords with alphanumeric characters, symbols, and proper capitalization. Do not use personal information. Avoid reusing passwords on multiple sites.
• Multi-factor Authentication: Use biometrics and PINs for added security. Enable OTP, fingerprints, or facial recognition.

Additional Security Measures:

• Installing Anti-virus: Anti-virus software detects potential viruses from suspicious links.
• Backup Storage: Store files on cloud storage or a hard drive by creating copies.

Online Etiquette

• Online etiquette is behaving respectfully towards others on the internet.
  • Proper use of tone: Use appropriate tone in written and audio communications. Caps and excessive exclamation can cause conflict.
  • Proofreading: Review text to avoid errors that could undermine the quality.
  • Respect for privacy: Honor personal privacy.
  • Be prepared and minimize distractions: Prepare online meetings with distractions limited.
  • Avoid misinformation: Validate information before sharing. Check sources and look for reputable sites.