Unit-1-Introduction-to-ICT.pdf

IT 11 Living in the I.T. Era UNIT 1 INTRODUCTION TO INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY Ket Terms ACM – Association of Computing Machinery ENIAC – Electronic Numeric Integrator and Calculator ICT – Information and Communications Technology IDI – ICT Development...

IT 11 Living in the I.T. Era UNIT 1 INTRODUCTION TO INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY Ket Terms ACM – Association of Computing Machinery ENIAC – Electronic Numeric Integrator and Calculator ICT – Information and Communications Technology IDI – ICT Development Index IT – Information Technology ITU – International Telecommunication Union USB – Universal Serial Bus LED – Light-Emitting Diode 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. Computer – is an electronic device, operating under the control of instructions stored in its own memory, that can accept, manipulate the data according to specified rules, produce results, and store the results for future use. Computer disc – is a flat, round, portable metal disc. 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. Unit 1 1 IT 11 Living in the I.T. Era 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 of 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. Unit 1 2 IT 11 Living in the I.T. Era 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. 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. 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. Unit 1 3 IT 11 Living in the I.T. Era Lesson 1. ICT: 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. 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 “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 bond 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. Unit 1 4 IT 11 Living in the I.T. Era IT vs. ICT IT refers to an entire industry that uses computers, networking, software and other equipment to manage information, whereas ICT can be seen as an integration of IT with media broadcasting technologies, audio/ video processing and transmission and telephony. Therefore, ICT can be seen as an extended acronym for IT. The term ICT is widely used in the context of education, whereas IT is a term widely used in the industry. In addition, recently, ICT is also used to refer to the integration of telephone and audio/ visual networks with computer networks. In simplest terms, ICT can be seen as the integration of information technology with communication technology. While IT stands for "information technology," ICT stands for "information and communications technology." One of the acronyms has a "C," while the other one doesn't, and the C, which represents communications, is the whole difference between IT and ICT. While these two tech- oriented fields share a whole lot of content in common, the difference between IT and ICT is a lot more subtle than their many similarities. Start with an understanding of IT as your foundation, as ICT is an extension of IT. IT Information technology, or IT, is all about the collecting, processing and sharing of – wait for it – information. The field of IT deals largely with the methods and tools used in said collecting, processing and sharing. These methods and tools include coding and programming, data conversion, means of storage and retrieval, and system analysis and design, among others. When someone says they work in IT, they're name-dropping a broad field that can include a wide range of professions, including network administration, computer support, computer science, system analysis, programming and more. In its modern usage, IT often specifically refers to the information technology that keeps businesses running and connected such as internal servers, web marketing and business software, which IT experts work to develop and maintain. When someone says they work in IT, they're name-dropping a broad field that can include a wide range of professions, including network administration, computer support, computer science, system analysis, programming and more. In its modern usage, IT often specifically refers to the information technology that keeps businesses running and connected such as internal servers, web marketing and business software, which IT experts work to develop and maintain. ICT As an extension of information technology, the field of information communications technology includes everything that IT includes but expands the scope. When dealing with ICT, computer science comes in to play just as much as the collection, processing and sharing of data. Unit 1 5 IT 11 Living in the I.T. Era ICT puts an immediate emphasis on connective communication technologies. This field hones in on the communications technology that connects the IT world, specifically telecommunications. In the 21st century, ICT is especially focused on how wireless signals and the internet drive communication and enable the spread of data. 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 or 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 decided if there is a need to bring an umbrella. Knowledge is also used to analyze the stock market and check which company is worth investing in. 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 has become necessary. With technology, communication is faster, more convenient, and more efficient. When face-to-face meeting is not possible, long distance Unit 1 6 IT 11 Living in the I.T. Era 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 another with ease. 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 tools has inspired the creation of a machine capable of transporting, not just objects, but also passengers. Thus, vehicles have nowadays become more of a necessity rather than a form of luxury. 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. Most machines, including computers, have evolved through the process of automation. 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. 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 process as automation increases productivity and lessens the time to market. Unit 1 7 IT 11 Living in the I.T. Era Lesson 2. 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. 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 (1946-1959) Vacuum Tube 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 was a modular computer, 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 roughtly 167 square meters in size, and weighed 27 tons. Unit 1 8 IT 11 Living in the I.T. Era Second Generation (1959-1965) Transistor 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. Third Generation (1965-1971) Integrated Circuit 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 generation, remote processing, time-sharing, and multiprogramming operating system were used. Unit 1 9 IT 11 Living in the I.T. Era Fourth Generation (1971-1980) Very Large Scale Integrated (Microprocessor) From 1971 to 1980, very large scale integrated (VLSI) circuit 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. Fifth Generation (1980 – onwards) Ultra Large Scale Integration 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. Unit 1 10 IT 11 Living in the I.T. Era 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 operations, input devices, and output 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 built into multi-function printers (MFPs). Another type becoming common nowadays is the hand-held or Unit 1 11 IT 11 Living in the I.T. Era portable scanners. Portable scanners can be small enough to fit inside one’s pocket.  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 Device 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 non-impact printer. o Impact printer – makes contact with the paper by pressing an inked ribbon against the paper using a hammer or pins. Example: Dot-matrix printer o 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. Example: Inkjet printer; Laser printer  Monitor – displays text, graphics, and videos on a screen. Many monitors look similar to a television. 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 fluorescent screen at another end. 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. c. Light-emitting Diode (LED) – is a flat-panel display that uses light-emitting diodes for backlighting. This 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. Unit 1 12 IT 11 Living in the I.T. Era System Unit The system unit 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, 32, GB, 64GB, 128GB, ITB, and now up to 2TB. Another type of storage is the hard disk drive. 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. Another storage device is the compact disc. It is a flat, round, and portable disc. One type of the 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, which has enough storage capacity to store a full-length movie. 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 use 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 Unit 1 13 IT 11 Living in the I.T. Era 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. 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 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. 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 classification of computers are as follows:  Personal Computer – is a small, single-user computer based on a microprocessor. In addition to the processor, 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.  Mainframe – is a powerful multi-user computer capable of supporting hundreds or thousands of users simultaneously. Unit 1 14 IT 11 Living in the I.T. Era  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. 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? 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. The different types of computers are as follows:  Desktop computers – are computers designed to be placed on a desk, and normally made up of a few different parts, including the computer case, central processing unit (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 touch-sensitive screen for typing and navigation.  Smartphones – are hand-held telephones which can do things that computers can do, including browsing and searching the internet and even playing console games.  Wearables – include fitness trackers and smartwatches that can be worn throughout the day.  Smart and LED TVs – are the latest television sets that include applications present in computers. Unit 1 15 IT 11 Living in the I.T. Era Lesson 3. 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 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. 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 televisions, radio, cellular phones, and internet (which involves the access and use of various social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Youtube, 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. UGC has grown exponentially especially with the wide internet coverage or easy Wi-Fi access, increased social media participation, and affordable smart devices. Unit 1 16 IT 11 Living in the I.T. Era Below is one of the many examples of media tools used especially by millennials to generate content. Blog Keeping a diary or a journal is a traditional method of 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. Recently, blogs have evolved into microblogs and video blogs. 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 pics. Some vloggers, TouTubers, 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 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. For example, Twitter. Users of this application can constantly update other Twitter users about certain topic. Twitter users can also share other users’ content (in the form of retweeting) and discuss any topic with one another. Thus, the media, Unit 1 17 IT 11 Living in the I.T. Era 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 examples, being the messenger of news are called “media.” In the digital space, however, does the “media” also refer to social network 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. At the beginning of the 1900s, broadcasting and recorded media were introduced. Radio and television 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 OLX.ph, a Philippine counterpart of ebay.com, 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 Yonkers sent “tweets” about 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 plane’s engine shut down when it struck a flock of geese, minutes after takeoff from New York’s LaGuardia Airport. Unit 1 18 IT 11 Living in the I.T. Era Lesson 4. 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. 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 Pokemon 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 included the following:  Face ID The owner’s face id 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 smartphone,” with a neural engine capable of up to 600 Unit 1 19 IT 11 Living in the I.T. Era 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.  iOS11 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.  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. 4. Automation Through advance technology, it is now possible to automate previously human- exclusive tasks. This is very much evident through wearable devices such as step 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 analyzed for insights which can help management make better decisions and come up with more effective strategic plans. Waze 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 integrations 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 Unit 1 20 IT 11 Living in the I.T. Era which transactions, reports, and services are done using automated systems is one such example. Not only is it deemed reliable but also environment-friendly. 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) are made of available through the apps in a smartphone. Lesson 5. 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 and 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 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 organizations can solve any security problems. Examples of security measure on applications are: () the use of encryption methods to keep and protect data from any malicious software; (2) the use Unit 1 21 IT 11 Living in the I.T. Era 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 interactions 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  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 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. Unit 1 22 IT 11 Living in the I.T. Era Lesson 6. Ethical Issues in ICT While 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 defilement. 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.  Software Piracy: It refers to an act of installing or copying a software into the computer in the absence of an end-user licensing agreement (EULA), and/or producing a copy disregarding the copyrights. Key Points  With the evolution of technology, people are now living in a period in which the economy is based on information computerization. This industry that involves computers, software, and networking, among others is called Information Technology (IT). It is a subset of Information and Communications 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.  The computer, being the main tool or equipment in IT, has evolved in many ways from the first-generation computer to the present fifth- generation computer.  The power of the computer, coupled with the introduction of the internet, cannot be underestimated with its speed, reliability and consistency, accuracy, and ability to handle communication. Unit 1 23 IT 11 Living in the I.T. Era  Communication and information creation and distribution have developed. Among the major trends is the so-called Internet of Things (IoT), the expansion and application of networks and internet to everyday objects.  ICT, however, has both positive and negative impacts on individuals, organizations, and society. References: Coyle, J., & Associated Press. (2007, May 26). Is Twitter the news outlet for the 21st century? Retrieved from http://abcnews.go.com/Technology/story?id=7979891&page=1 Pepito, C. P. (2002). Introduction to Computer Fundamentals. Mandaluyong City: National Bookstore. Selterman, D. (2012, April 16). Science of Relationships. Retrieved from http://www.scienceofrelationships.com/home/2012/4/15/the-need-to-belong-part-of- what-makes-us-human.html Shelly, G. B, Cashman, T.J., & Vermaat, M. E. (2011). Discovering Computer Age. Handbook of Research on Learning Outcomes and Opportunities in the Digital Age, 2. Doi:10.4018/978-1- 4666-9577-1.ch019 Zuppo, C. M. (2012) Defining ICT in a Boundaryless World: The development of a working hierarchy. International journal of Managing Information Technology (IJMIT), 4(3), 13-22. Retrieved from https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/9c00/ff69df8dc109faccdba154f2768d93193f14.pdf Unit 1 24