TOPIC 1: INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTING

Sub Topic 1: Introduction to Computers

Sub Topic 2: World of ICTs
Sub Topic 3: Implications of Using ICTs

Sub Topic 1: Introduction to Computers

A Computer is electronic device that receives data, processes data, stores data,
and produces a result (output).

A Computer is an electronic device which stores and processes data in binary

form according to the instructions given to it in available program.

A Computer is an automatic machine made up of electronic and

electromechanical devices which manipulates and processes data.

A Computer is an electronic device that accepts data input, processes it

according to some specified instructions (software), outputs the information and
stores the results for future use.

The concept of computer system

A computer system is a collection of entities that collectively work together to

process data into information. A computer system is more than a box with
components; it comprises the elements or components that make the machine
fully useful.

The Components of a computer system

 Hardware
 Software
 Data & Information
 Human ware, Users
 Communication

1
The Hardware Components of a computer

This is a term used to describe all the various physical devices of a computer.
Computer hardware components are tangible (they can be touched).

Computer hardware includes.

 Input devices like the keyboard and mouse,

 Processing devices like the Microprocessor Chip,
 Storage devices like the Hard disks and the CDs,
 Output devices like the monitor and the printer

Computer Software

Software is a term for electronic instructions that tell the computer how to
perform a task.

These are a series of programs (instructions) that tell the computer what and
how to work. Computer software can be grouped into System software and
Application software

System software like the Operating system (such as Windows, Linux, UNIX,
DOS, Mac Osetc.) are used to manage and coordinate all the computer
resources and activities.

Application software (such as Games, Calculator and Media Player, Word

Processors, etc.) solve the specific or exact needs of the user

Computer Users/ Human ware

 Computer Users (Human ware) refers to the people who operate and
initialize instructions to the computer system.
 They design and develop computer systems, operate the computer
hardware, create the software, and establish procedures for carrying out
tasks.

2
Types of computer users

Ordinary user -is someone without much technical knowledge of computers

but uses computers to produce information for professional or personal tasks,
enhance learning, or have fun. Ordinary users include Computer students,
Typists (Secretaries), etc.

Professional user -is a person in a profession involving computers who has had
formal education in the technical aspects of computers; Examples include
Computer programmers, webmasters, etc

Data & Information

Data refers to raw facts and figures used to create information.

This is entered into the computer by the user via input devices, in a form
suitable for processing. Data may consist of characters, symbols, sounds and
graphics, videos etc.

Computer Information

 Processed data (Information) Like a words (e.g boy), a mathematical

formula, grades, a piece of music, a song etc.
 Data refers to the processed data that makes meaning and is useful.
 For example the figure 10082006 may be input as data, but once this
same figure is converted to the format 10/08/2006, you realize that it’s a
date.
 Computer Information is organized into files, which are collections of
data grouped together and given a name
 A file that a user can open and use is often called a document.

Computer Communication

Computer communication is the transmission of data and information over a

channel between two computers. Computer communication allows sharing of
hardware, software, data and human ware among computers in a network like
the Internet. It also facilitate communications between people e.g. through e-
mail.

3
Characteristics of Modern Computers
(1) Speed
Computers operate at extremely high speeds. Their speed is measured in
millions of instructions per second (MIPS).

(2) Automatic

Computers are automatic machines, because once started on a job, they carry
on, until the job is finished, without any human assistance. However, computer
being machines cannot start them. They cannot go out find their own problems
and solutions. They have to be instructed.

(3) Accuracy
Computers are very accurate. The errors in made computing are due to the users
but not technological weakness. If a user enters wrong data, the computer gives
wrong Information. This trend is described as GIGO (Garbage In, Garbage Out)

(4) Computers are versatile:

Modern Computers can perform different kinds of tasks at the same time. For
example you can play music while typing a document at the same time. This is
also known as multi-tasking.

(5) Diligence: this is the ability of a computer to work without getting tired or
bored. It can continuously work for hours without creating any error human
beings in doing regular types of jobs, which requires great accuracy..

(6) Versatility: It means the capacity to perform many different types of tasks.
A computer is capable of performing almost any task, if the task can be reduced
to series of logical steps

(7) Artificial Intelligence: This is the ability of a computer to think and reason
likes a human being. The computer is capable of mimicking human behaviours
like sensing, responding to the stimuli and others.

4
The Information Processing Cycle

 The information processing cycle is a series of steps the computer

follows to receive data and process it into information.
 The 4 basic operations of the information processing cycle are input,
processing, output, storage and/or distribution.
 A computer is the machine that performs the cycle.

Data processing is the activity of manipulation of raw facts to get meaningful

information. Data processing is the process that involves transformation of data
into information.

These are the steps that are taken to convert raw facts, which are data, into
information. It starts with data collection.

The stages of the information processing cycle

1. Input stage
Data, instructions and commands are entered /inserted into the computer
with the help of input hardware devices for processing.
2. Processing stage
Data is converted, changed, transformed, interpreted, and manipulated
into information that can be understood by the user.
3. Output stage. At this stage, information is produced, conveyed or
displayed to the user. The user can be able to see the results of processing
with the help of output devices.
4. Storage stage. Information is kept temporarily or permanently for future
use in the computer.

The Common hardware parts of a computer

• The basic parts of a computer include the following.

(a) The system unit

It’s the core of a computer system; it is rectangular box that houses the internal
electronic delicate parts of a computer. The system unit is also known as the
chassis that gives appearance and shape of the computer. The system unit
protects the internal parts of the computer. The most important part is the CPU
or processor which acts as the brain of a computer. The are two types of system
unit and these include; The Tower and Desktop.

5
 (b) Mouse

A mouse is a small device used to point and select items on the computer
screen. It used in the movement of the cursor

(c) Keyboard

A keyboard is in input device mainly used for typing text and issuing commands
into the computer

(d) A monitor is an output device that displays information in visual form

like text and graphics to the user.
(e) A printer transfers data from a computer onto a paper in form of a hard
copy. One does not need a printer to use a computer, but it allows you to
print the documents.
(f) A speaker is an output device that is used to play sound. They may be
built into the system unit or connected with cables

6
Sub-Topic 2: The World of ICTs
The term Information and communication Technology (ICT) combines three
items i.e. [information, communication, and technology]

• Information: Refers to the processed data that carries meaning. It is data

has been prepared and organized very well.

• Communication in this regard refers to the electronic transfer of data

from one point to another.

• Technology refers to the technique and way of doing something.

GENERAL DEFINITON:

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) refers to the broad range of

hardware, software, network infrastructure and media that enable the
processing, storage and sharing of information among humans and computers,
locally and globally.

Information Communication Technology refers to a set of technological tools,

resources which are used to communicate, create, disseminate, store
information and manage information
OR

Information Communication Technology: This can be defined as the

convergence of information technology, telecommunications and data
networking technology into a single technology.

The use of ICTs in society

 Today people use ICTs in almost every walk of life.

 However, along with these advancements of science there arises the
dilemma of development of technology as it affects human individuals.
 They have come with both positive and negative impacts to our society.

7
Computers are applied in the areas of

 Business
 Education
 Health
 Security
 Politics and governance
 Art, leisure and entertainment
 Industrial, technical and scientific uses

Uses of ICTs in the Area of Education

 In education, we use Computer Assisted Instruction (CAI), Computer

Aided Learning (CAL) and Computer Aided Assessment (CAA)
 Schools use computers to create school websites for sharing information
with the public.
 Productivity tools like desktop publishing and presentation software are
used in projects and other school activities.
 Computers are used for calculating mathematical arithmetic by students
and teachers in class.

 With Use of School Administration and Management Systems. (SAMS)

Records management is made easier because all details of learners can
be held on computer, and easily retrieved, reducing administrative costs.

 Students’ Progressive Report Cards can be produced electronically by

use of computers instead of hand written ones.

 Distance learning through computer based training. People get award

such as degrees without going to class.

 Teachers use simulation software to perform difficult or dangerous

experiments in class.

 Use of special facilities for students with disabilities like text to speech
and speech recognition to help blind students.

8
 Uses of ICTs in the Area of Business

 Computers enable people to Work from home, using a computer

connected to the employer's network or via the Internet. This is known
as Telecommuting.
 Computers have created more jobs such as Computer technicians,
Computer teachers, etc.
 Buying and selling Computers and its components is a source of
income to individuals, and companies.
 Through, Computer Aided Design (CAD), scale drawings, and
excellent designs can be created easily.
 Computers are used for sending and receiving Mobile Money and
making world-wide money transfers.
 Banks use Computers to manage transactions and Automated Teller
Machines ATMs for 24 hours banking.
 Computers help in Business Advertisement through creating websites,
internet, flyers, brochures and billboards.
 Computers are used in typesetting business for production of
document printouts and publication of Books for sale.
 Computers are used for E-Commerce: the sale of goods and services
over the internet.

Uses of ICTs in the Area of Health

 Hospitals use computers for managing and storing Records

electronically, rather than paper files.
 Hospital Administration is also aided by printing labels, allocating
beds, make appointments, staff rotas, etc.
 Internet helps us get Web sites for information on health care,
treatments, conditions, etc
 Monitoring/Diagnosis such as Heart rate, blood pressure, etc. is aided
by Computer Expert systems.
 Medical Training is facilitated by Simulation software and on-line data
sources.
 Computers are used to carry out many surgical procedures such as
laparoscopic surgeries
 They are used in diagnosis and cure of many disease for example CT
Scan, Ultra sound devices and Magnetic imaging.(IMR)
 They enable online consultations by medical professionals.
9
  Use of computer assisted tests can be carried out before prescribing
treatment.
 Use of computer assisted life saver machine.
 Enable faster communication between patients and doctors
 Can be used to monitor the patients in hospitals e.g CCTVs

Uses of ICTs in the Area of Security

 Computers aid monitoring security through cameras, Automatic

number plate recognition, etc.
 Communication systems are widely used in the military to coordinate
the personnel.
 Some computer systems can detect temperatures and alarm in case of
danger of fire outbreaks.
 Computers are used for capturing data for Police National Computer
Databases –, vehicle number plates, criminals fingerprints, etc.
 Computers are used to detect presence of illegal devices such as
bombs.
 Computers are also used for controlling dangerous weapons such as
missiles.
 Computers are used for storing criminal databases and information at
Police stations.

Uses of ICTs in the Area of Politics and Governance

 Public records -A maintained database of statistical information such

as electoral register and census data can be availed online.
 Use of electronic voting during elections. The introduction of
Biometric Voters Verification Machines during the 2016 General
Elections in Uganda.
 Government departments can use a computer based platform to get
feedback from the citizens.

Uses of ICT in Art, Leisure and Entertainment

10
  Computers enable people to play computer games like GTA Vice City,
Need for Speed, Solitaire etc.
 Internet has promoted social networking that has enabled interaction
between people. Examples include Twitter, Facebook, Linkedn etc.
 Computers can be used to play music during free time.
 Computers can be used to watch movies and videos.
 Digital cameras can be used to record and capture videos on parties.
 Computers are used to compose and edit songs by producers through
using audio and video production software.
 Internet enables people to read magazines online.

Uses of ICTs in the Area of Communication

 E-mail: Electronic Mail sent from one person to other using connected
computers helps a lot in the area of communication.
 Video Conferencing enables people in different locations to conduct
meeting as if they are in the same location.
 Computers are used for Faxing: Sending an image of a document
electronically.
 Computers enable people to send voice, image, text and data though
telephones and mobile cell phones.
 Social Networks such as Facebook, and Twitter enable people to stay
in touch with their relatives, friends and interests.

Industrial, Technical and Scientific Uses of ICTs

11
 • In Astronomy, Computers are essential tools to study the behavior of
the complex systems in space as regards to their movements,
interactions etc.
• Through Computer Aided Manufacture (CAM), computers can be
used to control the production of goods in factories.
• Computers perform Telescope pointing and tracking (including error
correction), Camera operation, image download and storage, Image
reduction (the measurement of the image), and Data processing.
• Monitoring highway traffic
• Computers are used to tell schedules of water vessels, train, buses to
their respective stations. You only need to use your PDA device or
cello phone and check it out.
• Computers are used very extensively in design of roads. Roadways
and bridges are designed using software programs like CAD etc.

Positive Implications of Using ICTs

• Enhancement of efficiency- ICT has brought the bility among workers

to produce good results by using the available time, money, supplies
etc. in most effective manner.
• Communication. This has been enhanced by the development in the
communication industry e.g E-mail,skype,facebook etc.
• Networking. This is basically use of computer and other resources thus
eliminating duplication of data and other resources in the organization
• Security. Computers have generally improved security through
computer development of security conscious gadgets like automated
gates CCTV cameras.
• Service delivery. It has stimulated a sustainable flow of information
and interlinking the various stakeholders within the various
businesses.
• Entertainment. For example playing computerized music, games,
computer games etc.
• Enhancement of employment opportunities e.g computer teachers,
software engineers etc which has created employment opportunities.
• ICT explore and facilitates scientific research e.g solving the problem
of physics and engineering design, explore relations of biological and
physiological processes.

Negative Implications of using ICTs

12
 • Health problem. Computers have affected health standards of human life
for stance light from the screen affect eyes, sitting down causes back pain
etc.

• Fraud. This is where one commits unacceptable activity as the way of

getting organization's information or data without permission from the
owner. E.g stealing money from one account to another in the Bank.

• Moral degeneration. through the pornographic literature, message clips

etc which have led to loss of cultural values

• Increase in the cost of production. This is because computers are

expensive to buy and maintain hence increased prices.

• Unemployment. It has negatively affected the society by replacing the

workers with no computer skills.

• Computer viruses. These are considered the greatest nightmare because

they attack once the computer system and destroy it with in a minute
leading to loss of information.

• Death and accidents. They cause death and accidents due to computer
explosions

• Over reliance on computer. This has come up due to over dependence on

computer making them do everything hence causing mental decadence.

• Environmental Degradation. Computer resources and hardware

components are very harmful to the environment. They have led to soil
and air pollution in the environment.

THE CONCEPT OF GREEN COMPUTING

13
Green computing, green IT or ICT Sustainability, refers to environmentally
sustainable computing or IT. Green computing is environmentally responsible
use of computers and related resources.

Green computing involves the implementation of energy-efficient central

processing units (CPUs), servers and peripherals as well as reduced resource
consumption and proper disposal of electronic waste (e-waste).

Green Computing is the study and practice of designing, manufacturing, using,

and disposing of computers, servers and subsystems in a way that does not harm
the environment.

Goals of green computing

• Reduce the use of hazardous materials.

• Maximize energy efficiency during the product’s lifetime.
• Promote the recyclability or biodegradability of defunct products and
factory waste.
• There is a need to make the use of computers as energy- efficient as
possible.

Core objectives of Green Computing strategies

• Minimizing energy consumption

• Purchasing green energy
• Reducing the paper and other consumables used
• Minimizing equipment disposal requirements
• Reducing travel requirement for employees/customers

How green computing is being applied

14
 • Power- down the CPU and all peripherals during extended periods of
inactivity.
• Power- up and power –down energy intensive peripherals such as laser
printers according to need.
• Use Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) monitors rather than Cathode Ray
Tube (CRT) monitors.
• Use notebook computers rather than desktop computers when it is
possible.
• Use the power management features to turn off hard drives and
display after several minutes of not in use.
• Minimize the use of papers and properly recycle waste papers.
• Dispose e-waste according to federal, state and local regulations.
• Employ alternative energy sources for computing workstations,
servers, networks and data centers.
• Through promoting cloud computing and virtualization

Advantages of green computing

• Reduced energy usage from green computing helps lower carbon

dioxide emission that comes from fuel used in power plants and
transportation.
• Conserving resources means less energy is required to produce, use
and dispose of products
• Saving energy and resources saves money.
• Green computing even includes changing government policy to
encourage recycling and lowering energy use by individuals and
business.
• Reduce the risk existing in the laptops such as chemical known to
cause cancer, nerve damage and immune reactions in humans.

Cloud Computing: In Simplest terms, cloud computing means storing and

accessing the data and programs on remote servers that are hosted on internet
instead of computer's hard drive or local server. Cloud computing is also
referred as Internet based computing/ online storage

Cloud Computing-This is the practice of using a network of remote servers

hosted on the internet to store, manage, and process data, rather than using a

15
local server or a personal computers.
Examples of online file storage services

• Amazon drive • Box

• Google drive • Hightail
• I-Cloud • Media file
• Drop box • Microsoft One Drive
• Share File • Sugar Sync

Advantages of Cloud Computing

• Cloud computing reduces the cost of buying computer hardware and

software.
• It is available 24 hours and allows accessibility of your data anywhere
and anytime
• Efficient recovery. Cloud computing delivers faster and more accurate
retrievals of applications and data
• Flexibility of growth. The cloud is scalable so companies can add and
subtract resources based on their needs
• Cloud hosting is very easier to implement in organizations
• Allows automatic updates of software
• Cloud computing offers great security when any sensitive data has been
lost.
• It helps organizations to reduce their carbon print
• Cloud applications enhance collaboration by authorizing diverse groups
of people to virtually meet and exchange information.
• It is very easier to monitor and manage.

Disadvantages of Cloud Computing

• Very expensive to install and pay subscriptions to cloud service providers

• Requires you to be online in order access the resources and services
• The customer has limited control over the services compared to service
providers
• There is always temporary inaccessibility when service providers are
upgrading and servicing server
• There is insecurity of data due to hackers

16