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Class Rules
Class Timing: Starts at 8:30 AM with a 10-minute grace period.
Attendance Policy: 75% attendance is mandatory; under this, final exam participation is prohibited.
Punctuality: Timely arrival expected.
Active Participation: Encouraged to ask questions and engage in discussions.
Respect: Maintain a supportive learning atmosphere.
No Mobile Distractions: Phones on silent and step outside for urgent calls.
Assignment Deadlines: Strictly enforced; no late submissions.
Academic Honesty: No tolerance for plagiarism or cheating.
Feedback: Open to suggestions about course content.
About the Course
Course Code: GE100
Pre-requisite: None
Key Skills Developed:
Understanding ICT foundations and principles.
History of computing.
Insights into emerging technologies.
Web development skills.
Digital information security basics.
Data analysis using software tools.
Textbooks and Reference Materials
Main Textbook: "Understanding Computers: Today and Tomorrow" by Charles S. Parker.
Additional References:
"An Introduction to Automatic Digital Computers" by Robert Kenneth Livesley.
Computer Fundamentals (Edition 8) by Pradeep and Priti Sinha.
"Exploring four decades of research in Computers & Education" by Zawacki-Richter & Latchem.
Grading Criteria
Assignments: 5%
Quizzes: 4%
PBLs: 1%
Mid Term Exam: 30%
Final Term Exam: 50%
Lecture #1: Introduction to the World of Computers
Learning Objectives
Importance of learning technology today and its integration in life.
Definition of a computer and its primary operations.
Major milestones in computer evolution.
Identify major parts of personal computers (input, processing, output, storage, communication).
Discuss societal impacts of computers, including benefits and risks.
Technology in Your Life
Pervasive Computing: Integral to daily life; understanding basic computer literacy is essential.
Historical Access: Computers were rare and large before the 1980s. Growth of microcomputers increased access.
Current Statistics: 90% of US households have a computer; convergence of devices is common.
Computing Devices in the Home
Functions
Tasks: Information retrieval, email, online shopping, multimedia consumption, photo organization, and gaming.
Smart Appliances: Utilization of computers in household tasks.
Computing Devices in Education
Integration: Widespread access to computers in classrooms; usage of e-books and distance learning is prevalent.
Computing Devices on the Job
Computers are essential for decision-making, productivity, and communication across various sectors.
Computing Devices on the Go
Consumer Kiosks, ATMs, POS Systems: Facilitate transactions and information access.
Portable Devices: Laptops, tablets, and smartphones enable mobility and access.
What is a Computer?
Definition: Programmable electronic device for data processing and storage.
Operations
Input, Processing, Output, Storage, and Communications.
Data vs. Information
Data: Raw facts.
Information: Processed data that provides meaning.
Computers Then and Now
Early computing furthered significantly post-1946, with generation-based evolution.
First Generation: Vacuum tubes, immense machines.
Second Generation: Introduction of transistors.
Third Generation: Integrated Circuits increase efficiency.
Fourth Generation: Microprocessors facilitate personal computing.
Fifth Generation: Focus on AI and advanced technologies.
Hardware
Definitions: Internal and external components associated with computer operations.
Types
Input Devices: Keyboards, mice, and more.
Processing Devices: CPU and memory.
Output Devices: Monitors and printers.
Storage Devices: Hard drives, CDs, USBs.
Communications Devices: Modems and routers.
Software
System vs Application Software: Operating system manages hardware; application software carries out specific tasks.
Computer Users and Professionals
Categories include end users and various computer professionals like programmers and analysts.
Technology and Society
Benefits: Improved safety in products, quicker communication, accessibility for disabled individuals.
Risks: Health issues, data security, privacy concerns, and identity theft.