Module 1: Being a Digital Citizen - Comprehensive Notes

Digital Literacy and Technology Impact

  • Digital Literacy:
    • Definition: Acquiring current knowledge and understanding of computers, mobile devices, the web, and related technologies.
    • Digital Citizen: A person familiar with ethical, legal, and productive use of technology.
  • Computers:
    • Electronic device operating under stored instructions.
    • Accepts and processes data to produce information.
    • Memory: Stores instructions, data, and processing results.
  • Internet: Global network of computers sharing information.
  • Network: Collection of two or more computers sharing resources.
  • Wi-Fi: Wireless data network technology providing high-speed data connections.
  • Server: Powerful computer accessed via the Internet or networks, storing and serving files, often in data centers.
  • Online Social Network: Online community for sharing interests, ideas, media via websites like Facebook, Google Plus, Twitter, Instagram, or Snapchat.
  • Big Data: Large, complex data sources challenging to manage with traditional methods.

Historical Context and Evolution of Technology

  • First Generation Computers:
    • Used vacuum tubes: Cylindrical glass tubes controlling electron flow.
    • Examples: ENIAC (Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer), UNIVAC (Universal Automatic Computer).
    • Limitations: Large size, high power consumption, heat generation, and rapid wear.
  • Apple II Computer (1978):
    • Introduced by Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak.
    • Preassembled with color graphics and VisiCalc spreadsheet software.

Internet of Things (IoT) and Embedded Computers

  • Internet of Things (IoT):
    • Processors embedded in everyday products (things) communicating via the Internet or wireless networks.
    • IoT-enabled devices: Referred to as smart devices due to communication, location, and prediction capabilities.
    • Smart Device Control: Often controlled and interacted with via associated apps.
  • Embedded Computers:
    • Definition: Computer functioning as a component within a larger product for a specific purpose.
    • Characteristics: Small size and limited hardware but enhances capabilities of devices.
    • Function: Performs specific functions based on product requirements.
  • Examples of IoT Applications:
    • Automated Teller Machines (ATMs): Freestanding booths in public areas.
    • Remote Device Management: Managing home devices remotely (e.g., washing machines, temperature control).
    • Manufacturing: Monitoring processes and enhancing quality using sensors and robotic arms.
    • Retail: Tracking inventory and sending coupons to customer phones.
    • Shipping: Tracking mileage, location, and driving times for safety.
    • Healthcare: Connecting to wearable monitors, prescription updates, tracking data for follow-up care, and appointment reminders.

Digital Divide

  • Definition: The gap between those with and without access to technology, resources, and information, especially on the Internet.
  • Contributing Factors: Socioeconomic and demographic factors like age, income, location, and education.
  • Impact: Affects individuals, households, businesses, and geographic areas.

Privacy and Identity Theft

  • Privacy:
    • Definition: Freedom from public attention, observation, or interference based on personal choice.
    • Personal Data Access: Data can be accessed, collected, and sold in various ways.
  • Identity Theft:
    • Definition: Using someone’s personal information (name, SSN, credit card) to commit financial fraud.
    • Consequences: Victims face charges, damaged credit history, and denial of loans.
  • Methods of Stealing Personal Information:
    • Dumpster Diving: Retrieving information from discarded statements and receipts.
    • Phishing: Deceiving individuals into revealing information via email or websites.
    • Change of Address Form: Diverting mail to a different address.
    • Pretexting: Posing as a legitimate entity to request information.
    • Stealing: Obtaining wallets and purses with personal information.
    • Data Mining: Guessing passwords or security questions using social media.

Safeguards to Protect Privacy

  • Avoid carrying Social Security numbers or writing them on checks.
  • Avoid providing personal information over the phone or via email.
  • Keep personal information secure at home.
  • Provide cautious notifications before allowing data collection by websites or apps.
  • Be cautious about information posted on social networking sites.
  • Review financial and billing statements regularly.

Technology Impact on the Professional World

  • Intelligent Workplace:
    • Definition: Uses technology to connect employees, facilitate communication, use productivity software, and conduct web conferences.
    • Benefits: Collaboration via online productivity software.
  • Educational Uses:
    • Schools using social networking tools for events, group projects, and teaching anti-bullying concepts.
    • Online productivity software for collaborative projects and assignment submission.
    • Learning Management Systems: Used by colleges for web-based training, progress tracking, practice tests, and instructor communication.
  • Healthcare Uses:
    • Mobile Health (mHealth): Professionals using smartphones/tablets for health records; patients using devices for condition monitoring.
    • 3-D Printers: Used to manufacture skin for burn patients, prosthetic devices, and casts.
    • Telemedicine: Remote diagnosis and treatment via secure videoconferencing (especially useful for rural patients).
  • Transportation Uses:
    • Handheld computers used to scan package codes.
    • Efficient route planning and package tracking.
    • GPS navigation for drivers to avoid traffic.
  • Manufacturing Uses:
    • Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM): Streamlines production and quickens shipping.
    • Robots: Performing dangerous, detailed, or monotonous tasks.
    • Machine-to-Machine Communication: Monitoring assembly lines and equipment.
  • Job Search and Career Development:
    • Online Presence: Creating profiles and personal websites.
    • Social Media: Using job search websites and networking to promote oneself.

Creating a Professional Online Presence

  • Online Professional Networks:
    • Help connect with former colleagues, instructors, and potential employers.
    • LinkedIn: Social networking site for business and employment.
  • Tips for Online Presence:
    • Avoid humorous or informal names for profiles.
    • Include a professional photo.
    • Upload a PDF of your resume.
    • Include links to created content.
    • Proofread content carefully.
    • Enable privacy settings and avoid posting inappropriate content.

Technology Certifications

  • Application software
  • Data analytics, database, and web design
  • Hardware
  • Networking
  • Operating systems
  • Programming
  • Cybersecurity

Convergence and Devices

  • Computer Definition:
    • Electronic device operating under instructions.
    • Accepts data (input), processes it, produces information (output), and stores it.
    • Software: Coded instructions for performing tasks.
  • Convergence:
    • Definition: Integration of technological capabilities into unrelated devices.
    • Example: Accessing email, social networks, and gaming apps on laptops, tablets, and smartphones.
  • Device Types:
    • Laptop: Thin, lightweight mobile computer (also called notebook).
    • Tablet: Thin, lightweight device with a touch screen, often used as an e-reader.
    • Desktop: Stationary personal computer; all-in-one desktops house display and circuitry in one case.
    • Mobile Device: Portable or handheld computing device.
    • Smartphone: Internet-capable phone with calendar, address book, games, and apps.
    • Earbuds: Small speakers for listening to calls or media privately.

Media and Gaming Devices

  • Digital Camera: Creates digital images.
  • Digital Media Player: Plays audio and video files; available on tablets and smartphones.
    • Streaming: Receiving audio/video content while downloading.
  • Wearable Device: Small, mobile computing device worn on the body.
  • Activity Tracker: Monitors heart rate, pulse, steps, and sleep.
  • Smartwatch: Communicates with smartphones for calls, messages, web access, music, and apps.
  • Game Console: Hardware device for playing video games.
  • Handheld Game Device: Portable, small game device.

Digital Citizenship: Legal and Ethical Responsibilities

  • Digital Literacy vs. Digital Citizenship: Digital citizens know when to copy/paste information appropriately, how to credit sources, and understand copyright.
  • Netiquette:
    • Definition: Rules of Internet etiquette; acceptable online behavior.
    • Scope: Applies to web, social media, messaging, chat rooms, and file transfer.

Digital Ethics and Cyberbullying

  • Digital Ethics:
    • Definition: Legal and moral guidelines for technology use.
  • Cyberbullying:
    • Definition: Bullying via digital devices and platforms.
  • Cyberbullying Laws:
    • Missouri statute: Defines cyberbullying as communication via electronic devices.
  • Distracted Driving:
    • Definition: Driving while focusing on other activities, especially electronic devices.
    • Consequences: Risky behaviors while driving

Protecting Organizations and Individuals Online

  • Acceptable Use Policies (AUPs):
    • Definition: Document outlining guidelines and penalties for using company digital resources.
    • Purpose: Reduces liability and clarifies fireable offenses.
  • Plagiarism:
    • Definition: Copying someone else’s work and claiming it as one's own.
    • Detection: Services like Turnitin check for plagiarism.

Green Computing

  • Definition: Reducing electricity consumption and environmental waste from technology.
  • ENERGY STAR Program:
    • Developed by U.S. Department of Energy and EPA to reduce electricity use.
  • Practices:
    • Buy ENERGY STAR products.
    • Shut down devices when not in use.
    • Donate computer equipment.
    • Use paperless communication.
    • Recycle paper, cartridges, computers, and devices.
    • Telecommute and use videoconferencing.
  • Organizational Measures:
    • Consolidate servers.
    • Purchase high-efficiency equipment.
    • Use sleep modes.
    • Buy low-power processors.
    • Recycle technology.
    • Use outside air for cooling.
    • Allow telecommuting.

Assistive Technologies and Accessibility

  • Accessibility:
    • Definition: Removing barriers for people with disabilities to interact with data and technology.
  • Assistive Technology:
    • Definition: Devices, software, or equipment aiding people with challenges.
  • Visual Impairments:
    • Screen Settings: Adjusting size and color of text.
    • Screen Reader: Audio output describing screen content.
  • Hearing Impairments:
    • Visual Cues: Displaying words or cues instead of sounds.
  • Mobility Issues:
    • On-Screen Keyboard: Keyboard with larger keys or hand-mounted pointer.
    • Alternative input: Hand pad, foot pedal, facial motion detector, pneumatic instruments.
  • Intellectual Disabilities:
    • Technologies: Speech recognition, graphic organizers, audio books.

Legal Requirements for Assistive Technologies

  • Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA):
    • Requires companies with 15+ employees to accommodate workers with disabilities.
  • Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA):
    • Requires public schools to fund adaptive technologies.

Case Study : Accessibility for Visually Impaired Students

  • Ashley needs: A scanner, optical character recognition (OCR) software, and speech software to convert notes.