FCT1034: Introduction to Digital Technology - Chapter 1: Introduction to Digital Literacy and Computing Systems

Comprehensive practice flashcards in Question and Answer style covering digital literacy definitions, skills, digital citizenship, safety, types of computing devices, applications, hardware, software, networking, and system performance factors.

How is digital literacy defined?

The ability to confidently access and navigate digital environments by understanding, evaluating, and using digital tools effectively.

What are the six characteristics of a digitally literate person?

1. Confident in accessing and navigating digital environments
2. Understands, evaluates and uses digital tools effectively
3. Thinks critically about digital content
4. Practices safe and responsible online behavior
5. Creates and communicates effectively in digital space
6. Adapts to emerging technologies

What key skills demonstrate digital literacy?

Searching and retrieving information; using communication and collaboration software effectively; ethical use of digital content; managing digital identity and digital footprints; creating and sharing digital content (such as documents, presentations, and video); and participating responsibly in online communities and civic discourse.

What is digital citizenship?

The ability to participate responsibly, ethically, and safely in digital environments, which involves understanding online rights and responsibilities, making informed choices, and contributing positively to digital communities.

What are the two key areas of digital citizenship?

1. Online etiquette (netiquette): practicing respectful, responsible, and positive behavior when communicating or interacting in digital spaces.
2. Managing digital footprints: understanding that every action online leaves a trace and actively making choices to protect privacy, reputation, and security.

What does privacy and data protection involve in the context of digital safety?

Safeguarding personal information, controlling what you share online, and understanding privacy settings on platforms and devices.

What core habits make up cybersecurity basics?

Creating strong, unique passwords, recognizing phishing attempts, and staying aware of common online threats.

What is a computing device?

An electronic machine designed to accept input, process data according to instructions, store information, and produce output to perform specific tasks.

What are the five key reasons computing devices are important?

Information processing, productivity and efficiency, communication and connectivity, innovation and problem-solving, and everyday convenience.

What are the main characteristics of a desktop computer?

Powerful hardware, upgradeability, larger display, stable power supply, and better cooling.

What are the defining characteristics of laptops?

Portability, all-in-one unit design, battery-powered operation, built-in connectivity, and energy efficiency combined with mobility.

What characteristics define tablets and smartphones?

High portability, multifunctional use, touchscreen interface, various connectivity options, and an app ecosystem.

What key features define servers and IoT devices?

Centralized processing and control, high availability and reliability, scalability and connectivity, security and data protection, and automation with remote management.

How are computing devices used for personal applications?

Productivity tasks (word processing, spreadsheets, databases, presentations), entertainment (watching movies, music, video games, online streaming), learning (online courses, educational software, research tools), creative work, personal finance, and home automation.

How are computing devices applied in educational settings?

Delivering online classes, downloading study material from the internet, tracking student attendance and learning strategies, and delivering audio-visual aids in coaching and educational institutes.

How do professionals apply computing devices in the workplace?

Word processing, spreadsheets, presentations, and database management; streamlining teamwork via email, video conferencing, project management tools, and shared workspaces; business analytics and forecasting; and specialized fields like graphic design, software development, engineering simulations, and medical imaging.

What are the main industrial applications of computing devices?

Running machinery, controlling production lines, monitoring operations, gathering real-time sensor data, tracking materials, scheduling deliveries, optimizing logistics, and utilizing CAD, simulation, and modeling tools to design, prototype, and test products before manufacturing.

What are the four primary hardware categories of a computer system?

Input devices, output devices, processing unit, and storage devices.

What is system software and what does it do?

A type of computer program designed to run a computer's hardware and application programs. It controls internal functioning primarily through an operating system (OS) and manages peripherals like monitors, printers, and storage devices.

What is application software?

A computer software package designed to perform a specific function directly for an end user (or for another application), helping with specific tasks, simplifying workflows, and improving user communication.

What are the key advantages and common uses of wired network connections?

They use physical cables (such as Ethernet or fiber optic) to provide stable and high-speed data transfer with low interference; they are commonly used in offices, data centers, and fixed workstations for reliability.

What are the characteristics and common locations of wireless network connections?

They use radio waves or signals (such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and mobile data) without cables to offer mobility and convenience; they are commonly used in homes, public spaces, and mobile work environments.

Which three main elements determine overall computer system performance?

1. High-quality hardware specifications (e.g., fast processors, sufficient RAM, large storage)
2. Software efficiency (well-coded programs that use fewer resources)
3. Network quality (good bandwidth and low latency)