AA

1

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.