Introduction to Information and Communications Technology (ICT) - PDF

MODULE 1 Introduction to Information and Communications Technology (ICT) I. Statement of the Purpose This module orients learners to the concepts of ICT and IT. It also examines the different parts of the computer system, and the categories of computer peripher...

MODULE 1 Introduction to Information and Communications Technology (ICT) I. Statement of the Purpose This module orients learners to the concepts of ICT and IT. It also examines the different parts of the computer system, and the categories of computer peripherals, and assesses why computers are considered powerful thinking machines. II. Desirable Prerequisite Skills The student is expected to have understood the need and relevance of taking LITE (Living in the Information and Technology Era) as elective subject and as well as why the subject is relevant not just to the learner’s chosen field but mostly appreciate its relevance in our every day living in today’s world. III. Instructional Objectives At the end of this lesson, the students are expected to a) define ICT; b) trace the evolution of technology, particularly, computers; c) indentify the different parts of the computer system, and categorize the different computer peripherals; d) assess why computers are considered powerful thinking machines; e) explain the role of technology in media and how it affects communication; and f) recognise the current trends in information technology IV. Inputs With the evolution of technology, we are all now living in a period in which the economy is based on information computerization. This industry that involves computers, software, networking, internet, and among others is called Information Technology (IT) – a subset of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) which pertains to the use of technology that supports activities involving not only information such as gathering, storing, and presenting data, but also collaboration and communication. Technologies that cannot be underestimated with its speed, reliability, accuracy, Living In The Information Technology Era (LITE) Jose Michael B. Apan, BUTC Page 1 of 36 consistency, ability to handle communication, etc. because it is simply too powerful. Too powerful that it brings both positive and negative impacts on individual, organization, and society. Reminder 1. Work hard 2. Prepare yourself in doing your activities. 3. If you have something to clarify, don't hesitate to connect and communicate with your teacher/facilitator. KEY TERMS ACM - Association of Computing Machinery ENIAC – Electronic Numeric Integrator and Calculator ICT - Information and Communications Technology IDI - ICT Development Indexes IT - Information Technology ITU - International Telecommunication Union USB - Universal Serial Bus Artificial intelligence - is defined as the science of making computers or machines in general to do things that require intelligence when done by humans. Automation - is the technique of making an apparatus, a process, or a system to operate automatically. Big data - is a term that describes large and complex volumes of data analyzed for insights to help in making better decisions and more effective strategic plans. Blog - is a combination of two words web and log. It works the same way as pen and paper would, but the privacy becomes irrelevant given that a blog can be seen by anyone online. Blogger – is a person who writes blogs. Communication - is a process in which information is exchanged between individuals through verbal and non-verbal means. Communication device - is a hardware component that aids a computer to send (transmit) and receive data, instructions, and information to and from one or more computers. Compact disc – is a flat, round, portable metal disc. Computer - is an electronic device, operating under the control of instructions stored in its own memory, that can accept data, manipulate the data according to specified rules, produce results, and store the results for future use. Living In The Information Technology Era (LITE) Jose Michael B. Apan, BUTC Page 2 of 36 Desktop computer – is designed to be placed on a desk, and is typically made up of a few different parts, including the computer case, monitor, keyboard, and mouse. Exploitation - refers to an action of making use of and benefiting from digital resources such as changing grades by hacking the system. Hard disk - is a data storage hardware device that offers a greater storage capacity than a floppy disk, Zip disk, or USB flash drive. Information - refers to the knowledge obtained from reading, investigation, study, or research. Information age - is a period in human history characterized by the shift from traditional industry to an information technology-based economy brought by industrialization. Information and Communications Technology (ICT) – refers to technology that supports activities involving information such as gathering, processing, storing, and presenting data. Increasingly, these activities also involve collaboration and communication. Information Technology (IT) - pertains to the industry that involves computers, software, networking, and other IT infrastructure that help relay or manage information deemed important in modern-day living. Input device - is any hardware component that allows one to enter data or instructions into a computer. Intelligent system - is a far more complex machine capable of learning. Laptop computer - is a battery-powered computer that is more portable than a desktop, allowing one to use it almost anywhere. Libel – refers to publication of a false statement that damages one's business or personal reputation. Mainframe - is a powerful multi-user computer capable of supporting hundreds or thousands of users simultaneously. Media - refers to communication devices. Communication devices are used in interaction and/or communication. Minicomputer - is a multi-user computer capable of supporting from 10 to hundreds of users simultaneously. Modem - is a device or program that enables a computer to transmit data over, for example, telephone or cable lines. Motherboard - is a circuitry of the system unit which is commonly a part of, associated with, or linked to a circuit board. Output device - is any hardware component that transmits information to one or more people. Personal computer - is a small, single-user computer based on a microprocessor. Plagiarism - is the act of using someone's intellectual property (e.g., ideas and written works) and claiming it as one's own. Port - is an endpoint of communication in an operating system. Living In The Information Technology Era (LITE) Jose Michael B. Apan, BUTC Page 3 of 36  Smartphone - is a mobile phone that performs many of the functions of a computer, typically having a touchscreen interface, internet access, and an operating system capable of running downloaded applications. Software piracy - refers to an act of installing a copy of software into one's computer without permission, and/or producing a copy disregarding the copyrights. Storage - holds data, instructions, and information for future use. Supercomputer - is an extremely fast computer that can perform millions of instructions per second. System unit - is a box-like case that contains the electronic components of the computer which are used to process data. Technology - has made communication much easier and faster through telephones, computers, and mobile devices. Trend - refers to a particular style in fashion, devices, or entertainment. There could always be a new trend coming along to replace the old. USB flash drive - is a portable storage device that has more storage capacity than a floppy disk or Zip disk. It is small and lightweight enough to be transported on a keychain or put in one's pocket. Other names can be USB drive, thumb drive, flash drive, etc. User – is anyone who communicates and interacts with a computer or makes use of the information it generates. Workstation - is similar to a personal computer but has a more powerful microprocessor and a higher-quality monitor. Information and Communications Technology: An Overview The concept of technology has evolved throughout the years. As the rate of human progress continues to increase, society has adapted in such a way that technology no longer appeals to mechanical or electrical systems alone. The term technology presently includes advancements in communication and how information is handled, thus enabling governments, organizations, industries, and ordinary individuals to improve on their decision making, business processes, and everyday living. The term information and communications technology or ICT was defined in a study conducted by Zuppo (2012) as "related to technologies that facilitate the transfer of information and various types of electronically mediated communication.” However, this definition was considered too broad that Zuppo created an ICT hierarchy to identify key aspects such as ICT in education, business, and the economic sector (Figure 1.1). These classifications, however, contain some degree of commonality. The need for devices, such as mobile phones, laptops, and tablets, is identified in all instances. This fact is perhaps due to the human need to Living In The Information Technology Era (LITE) Jose Michael B. Apan, BUTC Page 4 of 36 “belong." According to Baumeister and Leary (1995), the "belongingness hypothesis” states that people have a basic psychological need to feel closely connected to others, and that caring, affectionate bonds from close relationships are a major part of human behavior. This need can be fulfilled through the different modes of communication, be it face-to-face, online, through voice, or simply through a text message, manifested in the number of people with mobile devices such as smartphones, tablets, and the latest technologies such as "wearable devices.” Nowadays, it is no longer surprising to find a person owning several of these gadgets, which may not necessarily be for different purposes. ICT is ubiquitous and access to it is relatively affordable and somewhat effortless. This makes the demand much higher as different sectors, industries, and organizations now also incorporate ICT in their daily business processes. Figure 1.1 ICT Hierarchy by Colrain Zuppo Living In The Information Technology Era (LITE) Jose Michael B. Apan, BUTC Page 5 of 36  nn https://www.statista.com/statistics/262950/global-mobile-subscriptions-since-1993/ https://www.worldometers.info/world-population/ The figures above denote the upward trend of people needing ICTs, with the estimate that mobile subscriptions now outnumbered world population. Living In The Information Technology Era (LITE) Jose Michael B. Apan, BUTC Page 6 of 36 Figure 1.2 Global changes in levels of ICT uptake per 100 inhabitants, key ICT indicators from 2001-2017 The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) conducts an annual study on the prevalence of ICT around the world. The report, called the ICT Development Index (IDI), includes quantitative indicators regarding ICT access, usage, and skills in different regions and countries. Figure 1.2 denotes the upward trend of people needing ICTs, with the estimate that mobile subscriptions now outnumber world population. Living In The Information Technology Era (LITE) Jose Michael B. Apan, BUTC Page 7 of 36 Source: ITU, 2024 https://www.itu.int/itu-d/reports/statistics/2023/10/10/ff23-internet-use Living In The Information Technology Era (LITE) Jose Michael B. Apan, BUTC Page 8 of 36 IT versus ICT When do we use the term ICT and how does it differ from IT? ICT, or information and communications technology, is often used in a more general sense, and is described as using computers and other digital technologies to assist individuals or institutions in handling or using information. ICT is technology that supports activities involving information such as gathering, processing, storing, and presenting data. Increasingly, these activities also involve collaboration and communication. IT, or information technology, pertains to the industry that involves computers, software, networking, and other IT infrastructure to help relay or manage information important in modern-day living as seen primarily in large companies or corporations. Simply put, IT is a subset of ICT as the technology used in the field of IT aids in the use of ICT (Wang, 2016). Breakdown of ICT ICT is made up of three words, namely information, communications, and technology. ➔ Information Information refers to the knowledge obtained from reading, investigation, study, or research. Some of the tools that transmit information are the telephone, television, and radio. Not to be confused with data, information is regarded as processed data. Computers normally process data that are later understood as information. For example, while typing on your laptop, you usually punch in random letters on your keyboard to make up words and sentences. The typing on the keyboard is considered as input data while the words and sentences you see on your computer monitor is considered as output information. Information is needed to make decisions and to foresee the future. For example, scientists can detect the formation of a tsunami using the latest technology and warn the public to avoid disasters in the affected areas. Processed information is called knowledge. Knowledge helps fulfill daily tasks. For example, knowledge is used to predict tomorrow's weather and decide if there is a need to bring an an umbrella. Knowledge is also used to analyze the stock market and check which company is worth investing in. Living In The Information Technology Era (LITE) Jose Michael B. Apan, BUTC Page 9 of 36 ➔ Communication Communication is an act of transmitting messages. It is a process in which information is exchanged between individuals through verbal and non- verbal means. In the prehistoric days, humans communicated through signs or symbols as evidenced by cave paintings and drawings, rock art, stone carvings, and the like. Forms of communication have evolved through time as communicating more and more complex ideas have become necessary. With technology, communication is faster, more convenient, and more efficient. When face-to-face meeting is not possible, long distance communication or virtual communication is now common and easy with the use of smartphones and computers with internet access. ➔ Technology Technology has evolved in ways that improve people's daily activities. As mentioned above, technology has made communication much easier and faster through telephones, fax machines, mobile devices, and the internet. It has also made broadcasting of information, such as news or weather reports, more effective. Radio, television, satellites, and the World Wide Web are powerful tools that can be used by individuals to gather needed information to aid them in their office, school or house work, or in simple day-to-day activities. Evolution of Technology The evolution of technology has always depended on one thing: the human rationale. Humans tend to think of ways on how to discharge tasks or workload, or do daily activities easily. The concept of technology always starts with the basic tool. In order to build a house, one cannot simply use his or her own two hands to cut wood and attach the wooden pieces together. A hacksaw, hammer, and set of nails are needed to accomplish the task. The concept of a wheel has also made transportation much easier, and enabled people to move several objects from one place to Figure 1.3 A boy pushes a. another with ease (Figure 1.3). wheelbarrow that carries his possessions through places. By combining a set of tools, people have come up with machines that can do the tasks faster and more efficiently. A single-wheel transportation tool has inspired the creation of a machine capable of transporting, not just objects, but also passengers (Figure 1.4). Thus, vehicles have nowadays become more of a necessity rather than a form of luxury. Living In The Information Technology Era (LITE) Jose Michael B. Apan, BUTC Page 10 of 36  Figure 1.4 Private cars vs. public transport Another type of machine that is considered a necessity is the computer. A computer is an electronic device, operating under the control of instructions stored in its own memory, that can accept data, manipulate the data according to specified rules, produce results, and store the results for future use. However, as technology evolves, so do machines. Computers today are no longer the same computers your parents must have first used (Figures 1.5 and 1.6). Most machines, including computers, have evolved through the process of automation. Figure 1.5 Computer basic usage Figure 1.6 Touch screen technology Automation is defined as "the technique of making an apparatus, a process, or a system operate automatically.” Automation includes a broad range of technologies normally connecting computer systems to other systems, such as sensors, wireless applications, expert systems, and systems integration, among others. The integration is made in such a way that these interconnected systems are capable of self-acting or self-regulation. Figure 1.7 Toyota’s automated production Living In The Information Technology Era (LITE) Jose Michael B. Apan, BUTC Page 11 of 36 Figure 1.8 Self-driving cars are getting now in the market. Intelligent cars with sense-able capabilities. Automated systems can reduce the instances of errors, which are usually caused by human-based decision and comprehension. Production companies often use automated systems as part of their business (Figure 1.7) process as automation increases productivity and lessens the time to market. However, an automated system is not the same as an intelligent system. Intelligent systems are far more complex and are capable of learning. This is where the concept of artificial intelligence comes in. One of the latest inventions in the automotive industry is the intelligent car which is capable of driving and parking by itself (Figure 1.8). History of Computer With the evolution of technology, computers have taken a major role in the last three decades. This is due to the fact that people have become increasingly dependent on computers to do their daily tasks in school, at work, or in their routines. What started off as simply for research purposes, computers are now designed to be more compact, more mobile, and more integrated in people's daily activities (Figures 1.9 and 1.10). Figure 1.9 Smart wearables -- Figure 1.10 AR (Augmented reality and VR (Virtual reality) Consumer health trackers, Smart glass, and a Smart watch Living In The Information Technology Era (LITE) Jose Michael B. Apan, BUTC Page 12 of 36  Computers have evolved based on the type of components used in the design. At present, scientists and researchers have identified five generations based on design, suitability, and reliability. These generations of computers are briefly defined below (Pepito, 2002). First-generation Computer (1946-1959) The first electronic computer was developed in 1946. Designed by J. Presper Eckert and John W. Mauchly from the University of Pennsylvania and financed by the United States Army, the Electronic Numeric Integrator and Calculator (ENIAC) is considered to be the first-generation computer. ENIAC used vacuum tubes, was a modular computer, and composed of several panels capable of performing different functions. However, it could store only limited or small amount of information and only do arithmetic operations such as addition and subtraction of up to 10 digits. The computer was roughly 167 square meters in size, and weighed 27 tons (Figure 1.11). HISTORICAL CONTROVERSIES Recently most Europeans interested in computing would have claimed that the first electronic computer was the Colossus, designed and constructed in Bletchley, England, by the mathematician Alan Turing and his colleagues, operational in December 1943 and used to decipher the German Enigma code, with a decisive effect on the course of World War II. Colossus was a device with the fundamental features that if without it, we wouldn't have the computers we use today. Most Americans, on the other hand, would have given the honor to the ENIAC (Electronic Numerical Integrator and Calculator), built by John W. Mauchly and J. Presper Eckert at the Moore School of Electrical Engineering, University of Pennsylvania, and operational in late 1945. (https://physicstoday.scitation.org/doi/abs/10.1063/1.881101?journalCode=pto) A controversy behind ENIAC as the first began when a US Federal Judge on October 19, 1973 ruled that ENIAC patent was invalid and that the first digital computer title belongs to the ABC (Atanasoff-Berry Computer). (https://www.computerhope.com/issues/ch000984.htm) The controversy revealed that Mauchly had spent significant time and had several detailed discussions with Atanasoff and Berry about the ABC. Mauchly had even been Atanasoff's houseguest for five days in 1941 during which he had access to the ABC's manual. (https://www.jameco.com/Jameco/workshop/rollcall/first-digital-computer.html) Figure 1.11 The ENIAC in operation. Composed of vacuum tubes Living In The Information Technology Era (LITE) Jose Michael B. Apan, BUTC Page 13 of 36 Second-generation Computer (1959–1965) In this second generation, the transistor was used as the interior sections of the computer. Transistors were much smaller, faster, and more dependable than the vacuum tubes of the first generation computer. They generated less heat and consumed less electricity but were still very costly (Figure 1.12). Figure 1.12 Second- generation Computers used transistors in its interior sections. Third-generation Computer (1965–1971) In 1965, Jack Kilby invented the integrated circuit (IC) that was used instead of transistors as the interior sections to build the computer. A single IC has many transistors, resistors, and capacitors that even the full circuit board of a transistor can be replaced entirely with one chip. This chip made the computers smaller, unfailing, and effective. In this third generation, remote processing, time-sharing, and multiprogramming operating system were used (Figure 1.13). Figure 1.13 A Third-generation computer using Integrated Circuit (IC); One of the very first Apple computer boards; Jack Kilby, the IC inventor. Living In The Information Technology Era (LITE) Jose Michael B. Apan, BUTC Page 14 of 36 Fourth-generation Computer (1971-1980) From 1971 to 1980, very large scale integrated (VLSI) circuits were used to build computers. These circuits have about 5,000 transistors and other circuit elements with their connected circuits on a single chip known as the microprocessor. These fourth generation computers such as personal computers became more powerful, dense, reliable, and inexpensive. The other application of this microprocessor technology can be used and applied for pocket calculators, television sets, automotive devices, and audio and video appliances (Figure 1.14). Figure 1.14 Fourth-generation computer using a microprocessor; A Core 2 Duo microprocessor; VLSI chips on the board. Fifth-generation Computer (1980-onwards) In this fifth generation, the VLSI technology has evolved into what is called ultra large-scale integration (ULSI) technology, with the manufacture of microprocessor chips having 10 million electronic components. This generation involves computer intelligence which is associated with artificial intelligence (AI), natural language, and expert systems that interpret the means and practices of producing computers that think like human beings (Figure 1.15). Figure 1.15 ULSI (Ultra-large scale integrated circuits) -based computers as shown and listed (bulleted). Living In The Information Technology Era (LITE) Jose Michael B. Apan, BUTC Page 15 of 36 Components of a Computer What makes a computer work? By definition, a computer is an electronic device that manipulates information or data. It has the ability to store, retrieve, and process data. It contains both hardware components and software applications The hardware pertains to the computer's physical devices. It is any part of the computer that can be seen and touched. A computer's hardware consists of interrelated electronic devices that are used to manipulate the computer's operation, input devices, output devices, processing or system unit, and storage devices. Input Devices Working with a computer would be ineffective if one does not intermingle with it because the machine cannot accept and receive instructions and/or deliver an output on its own. Input devices enter or send data and instructions from the user or from another computer system on the internet while output devices send back the administered data to the user or to another computer system. The following are some of the most common and important input devices of a computer: Keyboard - is the most common input device that accepts letters, numbers, and commands from the user. Mouse - lets one select options from on-screen menus. A mouse is used by moving it on a flat surface, pressing its two buttons (left and right), and scrolling the wheel that is located between the buttons. There are also alternatives to using a mouse. A trackball has a ball that can rotate using a finger or the palm of a hand to move the pointer. A touchpad also called a trackpad is a touch-sensitive pad that lets the user move the pointer by touching and dragging his or her finger on the pad. Touchpads are commonly built-in on laptop computers. Microphone - allows a user to speak into the computer to input data and instructions. While there are available stand-alone microphones for computers, most of the time, users buy a headset-- a combination of microphone and earphones-for the sake of practicality. Scanner - converts printed material (such as text and pictures) into a form the computer can use. There are different types of scanners available; the most common is the flatbed scanner. Scanners look like miniature printers with a flip-up cover protecting the glass platen. They are often Living In The Information Technology Era (LITE) Jose Michael B. Apan, BUTC Page 16 of 36  built into multi-function printers (MFPs). Another type becoming common nowadays is the hand-held or portable scanners. Portable scanners can be small enough to fit inside one's pocket. Pen scanners are just a bit bigger than fountain pens and can scan the text of a document line by line. They do not give high-resolution scans and are more expensive than flatbed scanners. Digital camera – allows one to take pictures then transfer the photographed images to the computer or printer instead of storing the images on a traditional film. PC video camera – is a digital video camera that enables users to create a movie or take still photographs electronically. With the PC video camera attached to the computer, users can see each other as they communicate via the computer. Output Devices An output device is any hardware component that transmits information to one or more people. The three commonly used output devices are as follows: Printer - produces text and graphics on a physical medium such as paper. The two types of printer are the impact printer and the non-impact printer. An impact printer makes contact with the paper by pressing an inked ribbon against the paper using a hammer or pins. An example of an impact printer is the dot-matrix printer. A non-impact printer does not use a striking device to produce characters on the paper, and because it does not hammer against the paper, the printer produces less noise. Examples of non-impact printers are inkjet printers and laser printers. Monitor - displays text, graphics, and videos on a screen Many monitors look similar to a television (TV). The three types of monitor available in the market are the following: a. Cathode ray tube (CRT) – is a vacuum tube containing an electron gun at one end and a fluorescent screen at another end. From this electron gun, a process called thermionic emission generates a strong beam of electrons. These electrons travel through a narrow path within the tube with high speed using various electromagnetic devices and finally strike the phosphor points present on the fluorescent screen, thus creating an image. Monitors employ the CRT technology used Living In The Information Technology Era (LITE) Jose Michael B. Apan, BUTC Page 17 of 36  most commonly in the manufacturing of television screens. A stream of intense high-energy electrons is used to form images on a fluorescent screen. b. Liquid crystal display (LCD) - is a flat-panel display that consists of a layer of color or monochrome pixels arranged schematically between a couple of transparent electrodes and two polarizing filters. Optical effect is achieved by polarizing the light in varied amounts and making it pass through the liquid crystal layer (like slimes). c. Light-emitting diode (LED) - is a flat-panel display that uses light-emitting diodes for backlighting. The display is of LCD only but the backlighting is done by LEDs. LED monitors are said to use much lesser power than CRT and LCD. Thus, they are also considered environment-friendly. Speaker - allows one to hear music, voice, and other sounds. The signal used to produce the sound that comes from a computer speaker is created by the computer's sound card. System Unit The system unit (SU) is the enclosure composed of the main elements of a computer that are used to administer data. This can be referred to as a computer case or tower. The circuitry of the system unit containing the primary components of a computer with connectors into which other circuit boards can be positioned is recognized as motherboard. Storage Devices A computer can be utilized with only processing, memory, input, and output devices. To make it very valuable, however, a computer also needs a place to hold program files and all related files when they are not in use. The goal of using a storage is to keep data permanently. There are many types of storage devices which include the flash disk drive, a small portable storage device often referred to as pen drives, thumb drives, or jump drives. It has a memory capacity of 2GB, 4GB, 8GB, 16GB, 32GB, 64GB, 128GB, 1TB, and now up to 2TB. Another type of storage is the hard disk drive (HDD). Most personal computers have at least one non-removable hard disk that is regarded as a non-volatile memory which permanently stores and retrieves data. A solid state drive (SSD) is a new generation of storage device It replace traditional Living In The Information Technology Era (LITE) Jose Michael B. Apan, BUTC Page 18 of 36 mechanical hard disks by using flash-based memory (no moving parts), which is significantly faster. Older hard-disk storage technologies run slower, which often makes your computer run slower than it should. Another storage device is the compact disc (CD). It is a flat, round and portable metal disc. One type of compact disc is a CD-ROM which can be accessed using most CD and DVD drives. Another type of compact disc is a DVD-ROM (Digital Versatile/Video Disc-Read Only Memory), which has enough storage capacity to store a full-length movie. Nowadays, we have the Blu-ray/HD-DVD (HD for Hi-Definition) and the key difference of it to DVD is that DVD is a standard definition 480i resolution format, while Blu-ray/HD- DVD disc video can be up to 1080p HDTV quality. Blu-ray and HD- DVD achieved the same results but were incompatible formats. Why Computers are Powerful Computers are powerful for a variety of reasons. They work with remarkable speed, reliability, consistency, and accuracy. Computers can store large amounts of data and information. Also, computers allow users to communicate with other users or computers. A user is anyone who communicates and interacts with a computer or makes use of the information it generates. ➔ Speed In the system unit, operations get done through electronic circuits. When data, instructions, and information drift along these circuits, they travel at incredibly fast speeds. Most computers bring out billions of operations in a single second. The world's fastest computer can perform trillions of operations in one second. ➔ Reliability and consistency The electronic components in modern computers are dependable because they have a low failure rate. The high reliability of components enables the computer to produce consistent results. Living In The Information Technology Era (LITE) Jose Michael B. Apan, BUTC Page 19 of 36 ➔ Accuracy Computers process large amounts of data and generate error-free results, provided the data is inputted correctly and the instructions work properly. If data is inaccurate, the resulting output is also incorrect. A computing phrase known as GIGO or Garbage-In-Garbage-Out points out that the accuracy of a computer's output depends on the accuracy of the input. ➔ Communication It is unbearable to go through a day without communication. Communication happens between two or more people sending and receiving messages from one another. The one sending the message is referred to as the sender while the one receiving the information is known as the receiver. The message being transmitted can contain facts, thoughts, perceptions, judgments, beliefs, attitudes, commands, and even reactions. For example, two computers connected by a communications device, such as a modem, can share stored data, instructions, and information. These two computers can be located in the same room or thousands of miles away from each other in two different countries. Classifying Computers Computers can be classified based on size and computing power. However, as technology advances, these classifications tend to overlap as modern computers have become smaller, yet more powerful, and relatively cheaper. The general classifications of computers are as follows: Personal computer – is a small, single-user computer based on a microprocessor. In addition to the microprocessor, a personal computer has a keyboard for entering data, a monitor for displaying information, and a storage device for saving data. Workstation – is a powerful, single-user computer. A workstation is like a personal computer, but it has a more powerful microprocessor and a higher-quality monitor. Minicomputer - is a multi-user computer capable of supporting from 10 to hundreds of users simultaneously. Living In The Information Technology Era (LITE) Jose Michael B. Apan, BUTC Page 20 of 36  Mainframe – is a powerful multi-user computer capable of supporting hundreds or thousands of users simultaneously. Supercomputer – is an extremely fast computer that can perform millions of instructions per second. Below is a picture of NASA's Pleiades supercomputer that has 245,536 CPU cores and a total memory of 935 TB. Supercomputer Is the fastest, most powerful computer – and the most expensive. The fastest supercomputer can process 135 trillion instructions per second. Supercomputers can store more than 20,000 times the data and information of an average desktop computer. Figure 1.16 A supercomputer called NEC Earth Simulator, employed for specialized applications that require immense amounts of mathematical calculations (Weather forecasting, fluid dynamic calculations, nuclear energy research, petroleum and space exploration, etc.) Living In The Information Technology Era (LITE) Jose Michael B. Apan, BUTC Page 21 of 36  SUPERCOMPUTER VS. MAINFRAME What’s the difference? Supercomputer channels all its power into executing a few program as fast as possible, whereas mainframes uses its power to execute many programs concurrently. To compare, a computer with an Intel Core i3 processor, has only two cores for running its programs and applications. Core i5 and i7 models usually have only four cores. Core i7 extreme processors can have six to eight cores; however, most applications cannot use all the cores to full advantage. Thus, they do not operate at full capacity. Imagine having more than 245,000 cores. How many applications and programs can your computer run in a second? Figure 1.17 Intel’s line of i-processors Computers are also categorized into several types due to the introduction of mobile devices and the proliferation of internet-capable devices. Specialized computers are now classified according to specific uses (Figure 1.18). The different types of computers are as follows: Desktop computers - are computers designed to be placed on a desk, and are normally made up of a few different parts, including the computer case, central processing unit dogi (CPU), monitor, keyboard, and mouse. Laptop computers - are battery-powered computer devices whose portability makes them possible to use almost anytime, anywhere. Tablet computers - are hand-held computers with touchsensitive screen for typing and navigation. Smartphones - are hand-held telephones which can do to a things that computers can do, including browsing and on searching the internet and even playing console games. on. Wearables - include fitness trackers and smartwatches that can be worn throughout the day. Smart TVs - are the latest television sets that include applications present in computers. For example, videos can be streamed from the internet directly onto the TV. The TV can also be used as a computer monitor and gaming monitor. Embedded computers - are special-purpose computers that functions as a component in a larger product. Embedded computers are Living In The Information Technology Era (LITE) Jose Michael B. Apan, BUTC Page 22 of 36  everywhere – at home, in cars, cell phones, printers, and at work. Because embedded computers are components in larger products, they are usually small and have limited hardware. These computers perform various functions depending on the requirement of the product in which they reside. Game consoles - is a mobile computing device designed for single- player or multi-player video games. Types are Standard Game Console and Handheld Game Consoles. In addition to gaming, many game console models allow users to listen to music, watch movies, and connect to the internet. Figure 1.18 Different computer types. Clockwise – Desktop PC, Tablet, Laptop, Smart phones, Wearables (Health trackers, Smart watch), Game consoles (Playstation, X-box, Nintendo, PS-4, and Wii), and Smart TV. Digital Age, Information Age, and Computer Age Digital age, information age, and computer age, used interchangeably, capture the ubiquitous nature of computing and the prolific use of technology in almost all aspects of human activity such that digital interaction is a defining characteristic of human activity. It is a period in human history characterized by the shift from traditional industry to information technology-based economy brought by industrialization during the Industrial Revolution. The definition of what digital means (or what information means) continues to change over time as new technologies, user devices, and methods of interaction with other people and devices enter the domain of research, development, and market launch. This period is also characterized by the digital industry creating a knowledge-based society surrounded by a high-tech global economy that exerts its influence on how the manufacturing process and the service sector work in an efficient and convenient way. Living In The Information Technology Era (LITE) Jose Michael B. Apan, BUTC Page 23 of 36 Media in the Digital Age Media normally refers to the means of communication that uses unique tools to interconnect among people. The forms of media include television, radio, cellular phones, and internet (which involves the access and use of various social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, and among others). In the digital age, however, media can be considered as the message, the medium, and the messenger. The Message Media is considered to be the message itself for those who create and own the rights of content. The forms of content can be user-generated or professionally-produced. User-generated content (UGC) is a form of content created and owned by the users of a system (Figure 1.19). UGC has grown exponentially especially with the wide internet coverage or easy WiFi access, increased social media participation, and affordable smart devices. Figure 1.19 Above are examples of UGC (User-generated content). Below is one of the many examples of media tools used especially by millennials and Gen-Z to generate content. ➔ Blog Keeping a diary or a journal is a traditional method of en recording one's thoughts or expressing one's emotions through writing. With the advent of the internet, expressing one's feelings and thoughts was given a new concept through online writing or blogging. A blog is a combination of two words, web and log. It works the same way as pen and paper would but privacy becomes irrelevant given that a blog post can be seen by anyone online. A person who writes blogs is called a blogger. Living In The Information Technology Era (LITE) Jose Michael B. Apan, BUTC Page 24 of 36  One of the TV personalities in the Philippines who also does blogging to further express feelings, thoughts, and opinions is Maine Mendoza (Figure 1.20), also known as “Yaya Dub,” in the Kalye Serye of the noontime show “Eat Bulaga.” M M Figure 1.20 The artist Maine “Yaya Dub" Mendoza as a blogger Most recently, blogs have evolved into microblogs and video blogs (vlogs). Microblogs have become popular due to the rise of Tumblr and Twitter in which users instantly share limited content or short messages. Now, with the increasing number of YouTube viewers, people have explored uploading their own videos ranging from their travels and products reviews to any other random topics. Some vloggers, Youtubers, or social media influencers even make money based on the number of views they get and on the products they feature in their video blogs. The Medium The medium used refers to the tool or tools used in sending a message from the source to the destination. Traditionally, for example, professionals send messages to the audience, such as a news anchor delivering the news on TV and/or radio. However, with the latest technologies, the so-called social media has become an avenue for information dissemination even taking over news sites in bringing the latest or up-to-date content. One such example is Twitter. Users of this application can constantly update other Twitter users about a certain topic. In this platform, Twitter users can also share other users' content (in the form of retweeting) and discuss any topic with one another. Thus, the media, instead of just being an avenue for delivering messages, is becoming increasingly social — with the audience themselves creating their own content and interacting with one another. The Messenger The messenger is the one who delivers the message. This is why broadcasters, for example, being the messenger of news are called “media.” In the digital space, however, does the "media" also refer to social network Living In The Information Technology Era (LITE) Jose Michael B. Apan, BUTC Page 25 of 36 users who create content themselves but are not professional journalists? Hence, although the media can be the message, the medium, and the messenger, in the digital age, the demarcation lines between them are somewhat blurry. Evolution of Media The media has transformed itself based on two things -- (1) how information is presented; and (2) how the connection is established. Woodcut printing on cloth or on paper was used in the early 15th century. It was in 1436 when Johannes Gutenberg started working on a printing press which used relief printing and a molding system. Now the modern printing press delivers messages in print, such as newspapers, textbooks, and magazines. In the 1800s, the telegraph was developed followed by the telephone which made the two-way communication possible Message sending and receiving can now be done both ways simultaneously. At the beginning of the 1900s, broadcasting and recorded media were introduced. Radio and television (TV) were used to send sound and video to homes and offices through electromagnetic spectrum or radio waves. Audio (lower frequency band) or video (higher frequency band) content can be received depending on the frequency used. Later on, a combination of both audio and video information made the audience's viewing experience more exciting. Films and movies became popular as they catered to larger audiences. As communication devices also evolved and became pervasive, so did information distribution. A photo taken using a smartphone can immediately be uploaded and shared on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. Community websites such as Carousell.ph (formerly OLX.ph), a Philippine counterpart of ebay.com is an online site where you can practically sell anything, also sites such as Lazada, Shopee, Zalora, and others that let its users buy and sell items online This eliminates the need for going to physical stores. In line with this development, the audience regardless of their professions can now interact with one another and are no longer disconnected. News sites can even get news stories for example from Twitter or other social media sites. According to Claudine Beaumont, author from The Telegraph, one good example of this happened on January 15, 2009, when dozens of New Yorkers sent 'tweets' about a plane crash in the city. News about the US Airways Flight 1549 which was forced to land in the Hudson River in Manhattan, USA immediately spread all over the country. All the Living In The Information Technology Era (LITE) Jose Michael B. Apan, BUTC Page 26 of 36 plane's engine shut down when it struck a flock of geese, minutes after takeoff from New York's LaGuardia Airport. Figure 1.21 shows one of the first photos taken from a Twitter user, Jānis Krūms, showing the drowned plane with survivors standing on its wings waiting for rescue. It was instantly forwarded across Twitter and used by numerous blogs and news websites causing the TwitPic service to crash due to multiple views. In this regard, Twitter users were able to break the news of the incident around 15 minutes before the mainstream media have alerted the public about the crash incident. This is a typical example of how individuals can now deliver content to everyone and connections are no longer controlled by professionals. Figure 1.21 A screenshot of Janis Krum’s tweet about a plane crash in Hudson. Overview of Current Trends A trend refers to something hip or popular at a certain point in time. It can be a particular style in fashion, devices, or entertainment. A new trend may always come along to replace the old one. Technology trends tend to change as time goes by. Following Moore's Law, technology is bound to upgrade itself every two years. In 1965, Gordon Moore predicted that the computing power would dramatically increase over time. But as it increases, cost is expected to proportionally go down. Nowadays, the two-year prediction has even decreased, with releases happening less than two years, if not, yearly. Aside from cost, sizes of hardware have also decreased in making devices, such as smartphones, more useful and dependable. A few years ago, people would have a cellular phone, a digital camera, a portable music player, and a laptop with them. They would use their phones to text and make calls, the digital camera to take pictures, and the music player to listen to music while doing their work on their laptop. Now, smartphones are capable of doing the aforementioned activities and a lot more through applications or "apps" made available online. The term smartphone was coined as the cellular or mobile phone has now become smarter -- it can run apps which help people perform their day-to-day activities. Apps turn mobile devices into miniature PCs capable of browsing the web, taking down notes, and playing games, among others. By default, smartphones come installed with basic apps such as making calls, sending text messages, playing music, and managing schedules. As of 2017, Google Play has approximately 2.8 million apps available for Android users, whereas Living In The Information Technology Era (LITE) Jose Michael B. Apan, BUTC Page 27 of 36 Apple's App Store is estimated to have 2.2 million. These apps are not just limited to smartphones. They can be used in other mobile devices, including tablets and, another recent trend, wearable devices. In an article from Forbes.com, DeMers (2016) identified seven major trends in 2017. 1. IoT and smart home technology The so-called Internet of Things (IoT) has been trending since 2016. The vision of IoT has evolved due to the convergence of multiple technologies, including pervasive wireless communication, data analytics, machine learning, and use of hardware technology such as sensors, microprocessors, and microcontrollers. Controlling home appliances through a mobile phone such as switching the lights on and off, setting the timer for the washing machine, and controlling the television to record shows that might be missed due to traffic — is now possible. 2. Augmented reality and virtual reality In 2016, the release of games such as Pokémon Go and the anticipated VR headset, Oculus Rift, served as a turning point for AR and VR technology. 3. Machine learning Also called artificial intelligence, having machines decide for you seems to be a daunting task and would probably make you think of robots and talking computers, similar to Iron Man's Jarvis. However, with the recent release of Apple's iPhone X, it was not just the design that improved. The iOS' intelligent personal assistant, Siri, has also been upgraded with enhanced learning making the use of iPhone more efficient. Its latest features include the following: Face ID The owner's face is the new password. It is a more secure way to unlock the phone and keep the data safe. A11 Bionic A11 Bionic is claimed to be the most powerful and smartest chip ever in a smartphone,” with a neural engine capable of up to 600 billion operations per second. A neural engine, a type of artificial intelligence, enables computers to learn from observation. Wireless charging A cable is not needed to charge the device. iOS 11 In its latest operating system, one can scan documents in the notes app, edit live photos, and in the U.S., even pay friends in Messages. Siri can also translate languages. Living In The Information Technology Era (LITE) Jose Michael B. Apan, BUTC Page 28 of 36  Augmented Reality AR is not just designed for fun. It is also meant for productivity and efficiency. It allows one to navigate without looking at a map, visualize industrial equipment, and many others. a technology that superimposes a computer-generated image on a user's view of the real world, thus providing a composite view. Augmented reality is an interactive experience that combines the real world and computer-generated content. The content can span multiple sensory modalities, including visual, auditory, haptic, somatosensory and olfactory. 4. Automation Through advanced technology, it is now possible to automate previously human-exclusive tasks. This very much evident through wearable devices such as counters and heart rate monitors used by health-conscious individuals. Information collected is automatically saved and stored in mobile devices for analysis later on. 5. Big data Big data is a term that describes large and complex volumes of data. But it is not how much data an organization has it is what they do with it that matters. Big data can be analyzed for insights which can help management make better decisions and come up with more effective strategic plans. Waze, a GPS navigation software app is an example of an app which uses big data. The app helps users determine traffic, direction and route estimations, and notifies users with accident alerts and road hazards, among others. 6. Physical-digital integration Majority of organizations nowadays are moving towards system automation. As such, they identify their physical elements and create digital data for more efficient operation and back-up. The concept of having a “paperless company” in which transactions, reports, and services are done using automated systems is one such example. Not only is it deemed reliable but also environment friendly. Bill payments thru GCash app is an example of this, wherein the traditional cashier (physical) is converted into a new system or app accessible thru a digital device like smartphone (digital), integration (physical and digital) that gives more benefits to users. Living In The Information Technology Era (LITE) Jose Michael B. Apan, BUTC Page 29 of 36 7. Everything on demand Due to the prevalence of network connectivity, it is possible to have information on demand. Music, movies, and even drivers (e.g., Grab, Uber, Ninja Van, Food Panda, etc.) are made available through the apps in a smartphone. Living In The Information Technology Era (LITE) Jose Michael B. Apan, BUTC Page 30 of 36 Impact of ICT on Individuals, Organizations, and Society ICT brings both positive and negative effects to individuals, organizations, and society. It improves education, access to information, and security. However, it limits personal interaction and physical activity and poses problems in employment security. Positive Effects ➔ Improved access to education There are new ways of learning such as the use of learning management system (LMS) which implements educational enhancements such as distance learning and online tutorials virtual reality, and interactive multimedia. ➔ Access to information and communication The internet is widely used in communication. Access to it is getting better as it has become available in almost all places such as commercial establishments and public spaces. New tools have been promoted such as VoIP phone, Instant Messaging (IM), chat (e.g., FB Messenger, Google Hangouts, Yahoo! Messenger, etc.), video chat (e.g., Skype, FB video chat, etc.), and email. In addition, ICT has been maximized by most individuals nowadays for leisure and entertainment such as watching movies, playing games, or even reading news and articles, and for creating new relationships with people around the world. ➔ Security With the advancement that ICT brings, individuals and de organizations can solve any security problems. Examples of security measure on applications are: (1) the use of encryption methods to keep and protect data from any malicious software; (2) the use of password/s for personal information protection; and (3) the development of physical security systems such as biometrics in a form of fingerprint, facial recognition, iris (eye) recognition, and voice recognition. Negative Effects ➔ Reduced personal interaction and physical activity Because of virtual communication, ironically, people are less likely to talk to or meet each other in person. And because of the comfort of working from home and the entertainment that the internet offers (i.e., streaming movies, playing online games, etc.), physical activity is reduced leading to health issues such as obesity and heart disease. ➔ Job loss or increase in unemployment This can be considered as one of the worst effects of ICT. Multiple workers being replaced and reduced by a smaller number of employees capable of doing the same volume of tasks. Living In The Information Technology Era (LITE) Jose Michael B. Apan, BUTC Page 31 of 36  Shipping or freight services in which a certain amount is added to the operating costs for the physical process of transporting commodities or goods. Automation through robots or machines replacing people to in the assembly line. ➔ Security ICT brings not only improvement but also threat to security. Data or files must always be kept secure and safe. The internet connection must always be safeguarded from different attacks such as data modification, identity/IP address spoofing, password-based attacks, denial-of-service, etc. Computers should also be protected from various forms of viruses and malware which are released almost every day. Ethical Issues in ICT While some people apply ethical principles to the use of ICT, others simply do not, hence the proliferation of cyber malpractices The following are some of the ethical issues in ICT: 1. Plagiarism It is an act of theft in which a person copies another person's ideas, words, or writings, etc. and pass them off as his or her own. Those who committed such action may lead to serious legal and ethical defilements. 2. Exploitation It is an action in which one deals with a person dishonestly, unethically, and dishonorably, in order to take advantage of the latter's works and/or resources. This leads to unlawful actions. 3. Libel It can either be an insult, slur, or slander. Either written or spoken or even through actions, it may lead to libel if the accusation is not true and without any piece of evidence. 4. Software Piracy It refers to an act of installing or copying software into the computer in the absence of an end-user licensing agreement (EULA), and/or producing a copy disregarding the copyrights. Living In The Information Technology Era (LITE) Jose Michael B. Apan, BUTC Page 32 of 36 V. Activity A. Group Activity: Prepare a written report about your group's assigned electronic device by answering the following questions: 1. Is the device a part of a computer system? If yes, is it a computer peripheral? How this device classified (input, output, etc.)? 2. Be able to defend (and convince) that your group’s assigned device is the most indispensable among the other group’s electronic device. 3. Can you identify devices/peripherals that can be both an output and input device? Justify your answers. B. Group Activity: Search online for media outlets that use two or more modes of communication with their customers. Examples are a news program on TV and a radio broadcast over the AM frequency. Do a comparative analysis of the types of outlets the communication networks currently use in terms of the following: 1. Content 2. Audience reach 3. Your team’s personal preference Task : Make a group summary 1. With your new group, share what you have written in Activities A and B. 2. Make a summary of all the members' answers. 3. Submit or turn in to our Google Classroom (under Module Activities). Living In The Information Technology Era (LITE) Jose Michael B. Apan, BUTC Page 33 of 36  JUST A REMINDER For immediate Practice Test results, the below Activity C questions can be answered as Module 1 (Activity C) in Module Activity C (Practice Test) under Classwork in your Google Classroom. Please be guided. Thank you. ☺ Living In The Information Technology Era (LITE) Jose Michael B. Apan, BUTC Page 34 of 36 C. Individual activity: The test items that follow will find out what you have learned in Module 1. Give the correct answers being asked. 1. It refers to a technology that supports activities involving information, such as gathering, processing, storing, and presenting data. A. Communication B. Information C. Information technology D. Information and communications technology 2. It refers to processed information that helps fulfill people's daily tasks. A. Communication B. Information C. Knowledge D. Technology 3. It is the technique of making an apparatus, a process, or a system operate automatically. It includes a broad range of technologies connecting computer systems to other systems. A. Automation B. Connection C. Network D. Server 4. It was considered (by the Americans) as the first-generation computer that could store only limited or small amount of information. A. Advanced Research Projects Agency Network (ARPANET) B. Electronic Discrete Variable Automatic Computer (EDVAC) C. Electronic Numeric Integrator and Calculator (ENIAC) D. Very large-scale integrated (VLSI) circuit computer Living In The Information Technology Era (LITE) Jose Michael B. Apan, BUTC Page 35 of 36 5. It is a type of an input device that lets you select options easily from on-screen menus. A. Keyboard B. Mouse C. Printer D. Scanner 6. It is referred to as the enclosure composed of the main elements of a computer used to administer data. A. Digital camera B. Personal computer C. Storage devices D. System unit (SU) 7. It is like a personal computer but it has a more powerful microprocessor and a higher-quality monitor. A. Mainframe B. Minicomputer C. Supercomputer D. Workstation 8. It is one of the ethical issues in ICT that occurs when a person copies another person's ideas, words, or writings, and pass them off as his or her own. A. Exploitation B. Libel C. Piracy D Plagiarism 9. This occurs when a person deals with another person dishonestly, unethically, and dishonorably, in order to take advantage of the latter's works and/or resources. A. Exploitation B. Libel C. Piracy D. Plagiarism 10. It is the period in human history characterized by the shift from traditional industry that the Industrial Revolution brought through industrialization, to an economy based on information computerization. A. Digital computer age B. Information age C. Internet of Things D. Technopreneurship [ This ends here. ☺ ] Living In The Information Technology Era (LITE) Jose Michael B. Apan, BUTC Page 36 of 36