Understanding Information and Communication Technology

Introduction to Information and Communication Technology (ICT)

• Major technology, industry trends, societal shifts, and economic factors form a complex system
• The dynamic between technology and society is rapidly evolving

Information and Communication Technology (ICT)

• Refers to technologies that advance communications
• Enables communication processes like broadcast media, networking, audiovisual processing, and transmission systems
• Allows interaction in the digital world for individuals and organizations

Web Generations

• Technology evolved from Web 1.0 to Web 2.0
• Tim Berners-Lee pioneered Web 1.0 in 1990
• He wrote fundamental technologies for the World Wide Web and the first webpage browser
• Web 2.0 is the shift in internet use over the past 15-20 years
• It allows user-generated content to be instantly viewed worldwide
• Innovations driving Web 2.0 include internet access and social networks that expanded online interactivity and utility
• Web 3.0: It represents the next phase, built on decentralization for data storage across multiple locations, unlike Web 2.0's single-server approach
• Web 3.0 features openness via open-source software
• Web 3.0 features greater user utility through machine learning for faster, more relevant results

Convergent Technologies

• Describes the combination of two or more independent technologies into a new device
• A smartphone integrates technologies like a telephone, camera, multimedia player, and navigation tool
• They perform multiple features
• They collect and use data in various formats to enhance user experience through machine learning
• They interconnect with other devices for universal access

Social Use of ICT

• ICT developments facilitate global connection through social media
• Social media provides online services and tools for publishing, sharing, and discussing information
• Platforms include social networking sites (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram), forums (Reddit), community blogs (WordPress), and video-hosting sites (YouTube, Twitch)
• All aim to provide faster and more interactive communication

Assistive Technology

• Includes any device, application, or equipment that aids disabled individuals in learning, communicating, and functioning with ease
• ChromeVox is a screen reader extension on Google Chrome
• Capti enables listening to online books and news, and converts DOC and PDF files to speech
• Speech-to-text, transcription, and subtitles and magnifier applications assist those with hearing and eyesight problems
• ICT's current state helps society understand its benefits and empowers social changes

Online Systems and Platforms

• Services on the internet include online marketplaces, search engines, creative content outlets, and communication platforms
• Users interact with these based on their needs

Marketplaces

• Sellers and buyers trade products and services on an e-commerce website
• Prominent online stores in the Philippines include Lazada, Foodpanda, and Facebook Marketplace, offering diverse products
• Online businesses are gaining traction offering around-the-clock operation, additional income, and reduced marketing costs
• Benefits for buyers include shopping from home, price comparison, and diverse options

Search Engines

• Web-based tools designed to retrieve online information based on user needs
• Google, Yahoo!, and Microsoft Bing
• They generate results by crawling, indexing, and ranking data by relevance

Elements of Search Engines

• Crawl: Web crawlers (spiders) search the internet to find new sites and links
• Index: Gathered data is analyzed, organized, and stored for quick retrieval
• Search: The search engine translates inputted words using Natural Language Processing (NLP)
• It then accesses its index to find matching web pages
• Rank: Algorithms organize results based on relevance
• This is done by matching the keywords used, prioritizing high-quality content, and using personal information

Creative Content Outlets

• Websites use various types of media to the organization or the brand itself
• Blog: Written content by a blogger or team
• Written content shares opinions and knowledge
• Examples of common platforms for blog posts are WordPress, Tumblr, and LinkedIn
• Video: Range from brand videos and animation to educational videos and vlogs
• Video is a popular way to convey messages using movement, sound, and text
• YouTube and learning management are common platforms for video
• Infographics: Visual representations of data using charts and graphs
• They are commonly used for marketing, educational purposes, and social ads
• Online creative content includes art, literature, sound, and writings posted online

Communication Platforms

• Facilitate collaboration and connection regardless of distance
• Commonly used by businesses, organizations, and individuals for a faster exchange of information
• Microsoft 365: A productivity tool with MS Teams, OneDrive storage, and Office apps
• Google Workspace: A web-based tool with secure collaboration and productivity apps
• Dropbox: A user-friendly cloud-sharing solution for managing files, reducing email needs, and improving collaboration

Online Safety, Security, and Etiquette

• Abiding by cyber laws, users explore cyberspace with safety precautions, security measures, and proper etiquette
• Online Safety: Defending against online dangers
• Never trust anyone online unless extremely necessary

Online Safety Measures

• Limit sharing of personal information
• Verify website legitimacy, especially for communication and financial transactions
• Be cautious when clicking links
• Avoid shortened links from unknown sources
• Online Security
• Safeguards confidential information against cybercrimes

Security Measures

• Password Security: Use strong, unique passwords
• Multi-factor Authentication: Use biometrics and PINs for enhanced security, such as OTP, fingerprints, and facial recognition
• Installing Anti-virus: Provides early detection of malware and system corruption
• Backup Storage: Secures data via cloud storage or hard drives
• Secures files in case of data breach

Online Etiquette

• Behaves with courtesy and respect to all internet users
• Proper Use of Tone: No caps or excessive exclamation points
• Proofreading Messages: Check for errors to maintain credibility
• Respect for Privacy: Refrain from hacking accounts or systems
• Be Prepared, Minimize Distractions: Check equipment, ensure a quiet environment for online activities
• Reduce Misinformation: Check information from reliable sources before sharing