RV

1_1 All about ICT

Computers, Part of Your Life

Overview

  • Grade: 11

  • Title: Computers, part of your life

  • Edition: 2nd Edition

  • Focuses on Computer Applications Technology

Module 1.1: It's All About ICT

  • Introduction to Information and Communication Technology (ICT).

  • Emphasizes its relevance in daily life and the workplace.

Contents Overview

  1. The role and value of ICT in the workplace.

  2. Importance of Computer Applications Technology (CAT).

  3. Understanding computers.

  4. Protecting your information.

  5. Activities to test and improve knowledge.

The Role and Value of ICT in the Workplace

Key Influences of ICT on Everyday Life

  • ICT enhances various aspects:

    • Jobs: Changing the nature of work and career opportunities.

    • Storage and Consumption: Revolutionizes how we store photographs and entertainment.

    • Banking and Shopping: Online transactions and banking services.

    • Communication: Changes in how we connect and interact with others.

    • Information Access: Easy access to vast amounts of information.

Communication Patterns

  • Use of Social Networking Sites: Impact on personal relationships and professional networking.

  • Instant Messaging: Facilitates immediate communication.

  • Constant connectivity leads to an ‘always on’ mentality.

Access and Information Processing

  • Information retrieval has become instantaneous:

    • Speedy finding of information.

    • Assessing source reliability.

    • Ability to summarize and analyze information.

    • Various communication mediums: E-mail, SMS/MMS, TV, and Radio.

Leisure Activities and ICT

  • Entertainment Options: Movies, music, and media accessed online.

  • Video on Demand Services: Viewer control over content choices.

  • Online gaming and fitness programs boost the use of digital resources for leisure.

The Role of ICT in the Workplace

  1. Flexibility: Work can be conducted from remote locations with internet access.

  2. Communication Efficiency: Facilitates faster communication in teams and organizations.

  3. Data Management: Enhanced ability to store, process, and analyze large data volumes.

  4. Adapting to Trends: Real-time adjustments based on data trends (such as in sales).

  5. Task Automation: Performs hazardous or complex tasks with higher safety and reliability.

  6. Quality Consistency: Automation allows for repetitive tasks to be done consistently, enhancing productivity.

  7. Empowerment of Smaller Businesses: Technology levels the playing field, allowing small companies to compete.

Challenges of ICT in the Workplace

  • Skill Upgrade Necessity: Continuous learning required to keep up with technological advancements.

  • Job Displacements: Automation may lead to reduced workforce numbers.

  • Increased Working Hours: Expectation of longer hours from ICT professionals to meet demands.

Importance of CAT as a Subject

Benefits of Studying CAT

  • Develops problem-solving skills using computers.

  • Enhances ability to learn new software easily.

  • Provides tools for effective research and study using computer technology.

Potential Careers in ICT

  1. Design Fields: Fashion, game, and web page design.

  2. Healthcare: Careers for IT specialists among doctors and nurses.

  3. Entertainment: DJs, musicians, photographers, and filmmakers.

  4. Finance: Role of accountants.

Conclusion on CAT's Relevance

  • Ubiquity of ICT Skills: Essential in various careers.

  • Data Proficiency: Ability to handle data is crucial across jobs.

  • Effective Tool Usage: Selecting appropriate ICT tools enhances efficiency.

  • Decision Impact: Emphasizing the value of taking CAT in academic pursuits.

Understanding the Computer

Basic Functions

  • Input: Data entered into the system.

  • Processing: Manipulation and computation of the input data.

  • Output: Result produced from data processing.

  • Storage: Retaining input and output for future use.

Types of Computers

  1. Portable Devices: Laptops, smartphones, tablets.

  2. Desktops: Standard home and office computers.

  3. Special Purpose Computers: Servers providing resources to client computers.

Advanced Device Types

  • Laptops and Notebooks: Portable unit integrating keyboard and screen, powered by batteries.

  • Power Conservation Settings: Features allow the device to manage energy usage by entering sleep or hibernation modes.

  • Tablets: Lightweight, touch-enabled devices.

  • Hybrid Laptops/Tablets: Combination of functionality allows for diverse usage scenarios.

  • Smartphones: Multifunctional devices merging various technological applications.

Dedicated Devices Versus PCs

  • Dedicated Devices: Includes ATMs, GPS systems, and specialized machinery not classified as computers due to their singularity of function.

Protecting Your Information

Importance of Data Security

  • Emphasizing that data loss involves more than hardware replacement.

  • Risk of sensitive information exposure stresses the need for precautionary measures.

Strategies for Hardware Protection

  1. Record Serial Numbers: Document all hardware identifiers.

  2. Physical Security: Utilize cable locks and lockable cabinets.

  3. Motion Sensors: Equip systems with alarms for unauthorized movement.

Power Protection Techniques

  • Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS): Protects against power outages and surges to maintain operational continuity.

Review and Improvement Activities

  • Utilize written module activities for self-assessment and knowledge reinforcement.