MODULE I

Introduction to Information and Communications Technology

Introduction
This module will provide you an overview of computer, its components, and basic
operations. It will also discuss how computing technology is used in data and information
processing. Your knowledge about the components of a computer system and how they
work will enable you to easily understand the lessons on hardware, software, and
networks. Knowledge of hardware, software, and networks, and skill in their use, is
essential in applying ICT to your field of specialization. Moreover, you should understand
that the computer is a machine and just like any other machine, its performance is
dependent on the user of the machine and the performance limits of the machine.
I. Learning Outcomes: At the end of this lesson, you should be able to:
a. Determine basic concepts of IT and ICT
b. Trace the evolution of technology
c. Appreciated the applications of computers in the day-to-day life
d. Reflected on the pros and cons of computers
e. Identified the different parts of the computer system, and categorized the
different computer peripherals
f. Explained the role of technology in media and how it affects communication
g. Assessed why computers are considered powerful thinking machines

II. Key Concepts:

ICT: An Overview

The concept of technology has evolved throughout the years. As the rate of human
progress continues to increase, society has adapted in such a way that technology no
longer appeals to mechanical or electrical system alone. The term technology presently
includes advancements in communication and how information is handled, thus enabling
governments, organizations, making business process, and everyday living.
The term information and communication technology (ICT) was defined in a study
conducted by Zuppo (2012) as “related to technologies that facilitate the transfer of
information and various types of electronically mediated communication.”
However, this definition was considered too broad that Zuppo created an ICT
hierarchy to identify key aspects such as ICT in education, business, and the economic
sector. These classifications, however, contain some degree of commonality.

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 The need for devices, such as mobile phones, laptops, and tablets, is identified in
all instances. This fact is perhaps due to the human need to “belong.” According to
Baumeister and Leary (1995), the “belongingness hypothesis ” states that people have a
basic psychological need to feel closely connected to others, and that caring, affectionate
bonds from close relationships are a major part of human behavior.
This need can be fulfilled through the different modes of communication, be it
face-to-face, online, the number of people with mobile devices such as smartphones,
tablets, and the latest technologies such as “wearable devices.” Nowadays, it is no longer
surprising to find a person owning several of these gadgets, which may not necessarily
be for different purpose.
ICT is ubiquitous and access to it is relatively affordable and somewhat effortless.
This makes the demand much higher as different sectors, industries, and organization
now also incorporate ICT in their daily business processes.

IT Versus ICT
Information and Communications
Technology (ICT)
➢ often used in a more general sense, and is
described as using computers and other digital
technologies to assist individuals or institutions
in handling or using information
➢ technology that supports activities involving
information such as gathering, processing,
storing, presenting data, collaboration, and
communication
➢ technologies that enable society to create,
collect, consolidate, communicate, manage
and process information in multimedia and
various digital formats for different purposes
i.e. computing and telecommunications
technologies like the personal computer, CD-
ROM, cable TV, cellular phones, and the Internet
➢ used in the academe for the benefit of the
individual or the institution, which is smaller in
size than the ones handled by IT professionals
in bigger industries
➢ can be as simple as utilizing audiovisual
equipment for learning at school, the use of
electronic telephony, and other device that
help transmit information and audiovisual
devices in computers
Information Technology (IT)
➢ pertains to the industry that
involves computers, software,
networking, and other IT
infrastructure to help relay or
manage information important in
modern-day living as seen primarily
in large companies or corporations
➢ a subset of ICT as the technology
used in the field of IT aids in the of
ICT (Wang, 2016)
➢ a broad range of technologies
based on computing, networks,
and data storage that process
information processing, knowledge
processes, decision making,
problem solving, control system,
robotics, and data analysis,
information access and
entertainment
➢ helps strengthen companies with
the existence of a set of IT
personnel that are equipped with
servers, database management
systems, and security measures for
protecting confidential information
about the company

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Breakdown of ICT
ICT is made up of three words, namely information, communications, and
technology.

Information Communication Technology

- refers to the knowledge
obtained from reading,
investigation, study, or
research
- a processed data, which is
a raw fact
- needed to make decisions
and to foresee the future
Example: scientists can
detect the formation of a
tsunami using the latest
technology
and warn the public to avoid
disasters in the affected
areas
- processed information is
called knowledge
- knowledge helps fulfill daily
tasks
Example: Knowledge is used
to predict tomorrow’s
weather and decide if there
is a need to bring an
umbrella
- knowledge is also used to
analyze the stock market and
check which company is
worth investing
- an act of transmitting
messages
- process in which information
is exchanged between
individuals through verbal and
non-verbal means
- humans communicated
through signs or symbols as
evidenced by cave paintings
and drawings, rock art, stone
carvings, and the like in the
prehistoric times
- forms of communication
have evolved through time as
communicating more and
more complex ideas has
become necessary
- communication is faster,
more convenient, and more
efficient with technology
- long distance
communication or virtual
communication is now
common and easy with the
use of smartphones and
computers with internet
access when face-to-face
meeting is not possible
- has evolved in ways that
improve people’s activities
- technology has made
communication much easier
and faster through
telephones, fax machines,
mobile devices, and the
internet
- it also made broadcasting
of information, such as news
or weather reports, more
effective
- radio, television, satellites,
and the World Wide Web are
powerful tools that can be
used by individuals to gather
needed information to aid
them in their office, school or
house work, or in simple day-
to-day activities

Evolution of ICT
➢ The evolution of technology has always depended on the HUMAN RATIONALE
➢ Humans tend to think of ways on how to discharge tasks or workload, or do
activities easily
➢ The concept of technology always starts with the basic tool.
➢ A person cannot simply use his or her own two hands to cut wood and attach the
wooden pieces together in order to build a house. Some tools such as hacksaw,
hammer, and set of nails are needed to accomplish the task.
➢ The concept of a wheel has also made transportation much easier, and enabled
people to move several objects from one place to another with ease.

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➢ By combining a set of tools, people have come up with machines that can do the
tasks faster and more efficiently. For example, a single-wheeled transportation tool
has inspired the creation of a machine capable of transporting, not just objects, but
also passengers. So, vehicles have nowadays become more of a necessity rather
than a form of luxury.
➢ The evolution of technology goes with the paradigm shift based on the needs of
human beings.
➢ In the evolution of technology, computer was found to be a machine that was
considered a necessity.
Note:
This module will provide an overview of computer, their components and basic
operations. It will also discuss how computing technology is used in
data/information processing. This will give you the knowledge and information
needed to understand the basic concepts of information and communication
technologies.

Definition of Computers

➢ A computer is a machine with electronic and electromechanical parts. It is

programmable and is capable for performing the following basic computing
functions:
⚫ Accept data (input)
⚫ Process data
⚫ Generate output (information)
⚫ Store data/information
⚫ Retrieve/send data/information

➢ The beginning of the commercial computer age began on June 14, 1951 with the
delivery of UNIVAC--Universal Automatic Computer to the U.S. Bureau of Census.
Prior to this, however, Charles Babbage invented the Difference Engine and
conceived of another machine called the Analytical Engine. The latter had all the
components of the computer: input, output, processing, and storage. Babbage is
called the father of Computers.

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Generation of Computers
First generation: 1951-1958

Vacuum tubes were used as the internal computer components, punched cards and magnetic tapes
for storing data, and machine language for programming

Second generation: 1959-1964

Transistors replaces vacuum tubes, assembly language and high-level languages replaced machine
language, and the removable disk pack replaced punched cards. Transistors enabled manufacturers
to produce smaller computers.

Third generation: 1965-1970

Integrated circuits -- complete electronic circuits on a silicon chip were developed. ICs led to the
production of even smaller computers called mini computers. Software became more sophisticated
and interactive processing possible.

Fourth generation: 1971-present

The microprocessor or computer on a chip was developed. This made PCs, and other applications
possible (calculators, banking, etc.)

Fifth generation: present and beyond

Still difficult to define since most of the technology is in its infancy - artificial intelligence, neural
systems, voice recognition - while others are still at the experimental stage, such as quantum
computers.

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Types of Computers

In general, computers are sorted according to physical size and processing capabilities.
Right now, the size of a computer is no longer a good indicator of its processing power,
but generally computers that occupy more physical space are more powerful since their
bigger sizes allow them to accommodate more processors and other essential devices.

⚫ Supercomputers - are the fastest and highest capacity computers

⚫ Mainframe computer - less powerful, the most common in the late 1960’s
⚫ Minicomputer - also known as workstations mostly scientific calculations
⚫ Microcomputer - or personal computer, most widely used: Desktop, laptop, Palm
⚫ Microcontroller - embedded computers installed in smart appliances, toys, etc.

Elements/Parts of Computers

What makes a computer work? By definition, a computer is an electronic device that

manipulates information or data. It has the ability to store, retrieve, and process data. It
contains both hardware components and software applications.

A. Hardware - pertains to the computer’s physical devices; it is a part of the computer

that can be seen and touched

B. Software - provides the step-by-step instructions that tell the computer what to do.
Generally, software is divided into system software and application software

C. Data/Information - raw facts (data) and processed data (information) that are used to
produce the desired result

D. People - the most important part and beneficiary of a computer system, generally
categorized as end-users of developers

E. Procedures - are description of how things are done, i.e. manuals, documentations,
and others

Classification of Hardware

A computer’s hardware consists of interrelated electronic devices that are used to

manipulate the computer’s operation, input devices, and output devices.

A. Input Devices
Working with a computer would be ineffective if one does not intermingle with it
because the machine cannot accept and receive instructions and/or deliver an output
on its own. Input Devices enter or send data and instructions from the user or from
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another computer system on the internet while output devices send back the
administered data to the user or to another computer system.

The following are some of the most common and important input devices of a
computer:

⚫ Keyboard - the most common input device that accepts letters, numbers, and
commands from the user
⚫ Mouse - lets one select options from on-screen menus. A mouse is used by
moving it on a flat surface, pressing its two buttons (left and right), and scrolling
the wheel that is located between the buttons. There are also alternatives to
using a mouse. A trackball has a ball that can rotate using a finger or the palm
of a hand to move the pointer. A touchpad also called trackpad is a touch-sensitve
pad that lets the user move the pointer by touching and dragging his or her finger
on the pad. Touchpads are commonly built-in on laptop computers.
⚫ Microphone - allows a user to speak into the computer to input data and
instructions. While there are available stand-alone microphones for computers,
most of the time, users buy a headset - a combination of microphone and
earphones - for the sake of practicality
⚫ Scanner - converts printed material (such as text and pictures) into a form the
computer can use. There are different types of scanners available; the most
common is the flatbed scanner. Scanners look like miniature printers with a flip-
up cover protecting the glass platen. They are often built into multi-function
printers (MFPs). Another type becoming common nowadays is the hand-held or
portable scanners. Portable scanners can be small enough to fit inside one’s
pocket. Pen scanners are just a bit bigger than fountain pens and can scan the
text of a document line by line. They do not give high-resolution scans and are
more expensive than flatbed scanners.
⚫ Digital camera - allows one to take pictures then transfer the photographed
images to the computer or printer instead of storing the images on a traditional
film.
⚫ PC video camera - is a digital video camera that enables users to create a movie
or take still photographs electronically. With the PC video camera attached to the
computer, users can see each other as they communicate via the computer.

B. Output Devices
- any hardware component that transmits information to one or more
people. The three commonly used output devices are as follows:

⚫ Printer - produces text and graphics on a physical medium such as paper. The
two types of printers are the impact printer and the non-impact printer. An impact
printer makes contact with the paper by pressing an inked ribbon against the
paper using a hammer or pins. An example of an impact printer is the dot-matrix
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 printer. A non-impact printer does not use a striking device to produce characters
on the paper, and because it does not hammer against the paper, the printer
produces less noise. Examples of non-impact printers are inkjet printer and laser
printers.
⚫ Monitor - displays text, graphics, and videos on screen. Many monitors look
similar to a television. The three types of monitors available in the market are the
following:
◼ Cathode ray tube (CRT) - a vacuum tube containing an electron gun at one
end and a fluorescent screen at another end. From this electron gun, a
process called thermionic emission generates a strong beam of electrons.
◼ Liquid crystal display (LCD) - a flat-panel display that consists of a layer of
color or monochrome pixels arranged schematically between a couple of
transparent electrodes and two polarizing filters. Optical effect is achieved by
polarizing the light in varied amounts and making it pass through the liquid
crystal layer.
◼ Light-emitting diode (LED) - a flat-panel display that uses light-emitting
diodes for backlighting. The display is of LCD only but the backlighting is done
by LEDs. LED monitors are said to use much lesser power than CRT and LCD.
Thus, they are also considered environment-friendly.
⚫ Speaker - allows one to hear music, voice, and other sounds. The signal used to
produce the sound that comes from a computer speaker is created by the
computer’s sound card.

C. System Unit
- enclosure composed of the main elements of a computer that are used to
administer data. This can be referred to as a computer case or tower. The circuitry
of the system unit containing the primary components of a computer with
connectors into which other circuit boards can be positioned is recognized as
motherboard.

⚫ Processor - the device that interprets and executes instructions. It is the brain of
the computer. The faster the speed of the processor, the faster the execution of
instructions. In a computer-based information system the Central Processing Unit
(CPU) controls and manipulates data into information. In a personal computer
(PC), the CPU is a very small single “chip” called a microprocessor, with electrical
circuits printed on it. It is mounted to the system board, called the motherboard,
together with the other necessary components. Types of processors vary
according to their manufacturer, clock rate (execution of instruction per second)
and processor generation.

Examples of Processors:
* Intel CPUs = Celeron, Pentium 4E, Pentium D, Xeon; from 500 MHz - 1.5 GHz
* Apple/Motorola CPUs = Power PC G3. G4; from 500 MHz - 700MHz
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 * AMD CPUs = K6, K7, Duron, Athlon, 500 MHz - 1.5 GHz
* Cyrix CPUs = Cyrix MII, VIA Cyrix III; 333MHz - 600 MHz

⚫ Memory - the computer’s workspace where application instructions and data are
held during operation, also known as main memory, primary storage of Random
Access Memory (RAM). The capacity of a memory is important because this is
where data and programs are stored while they are active, thus bigger memory
means bigger workspace.
⚫ Random Access memory (RAM) - the amount of memory available determines
the kind of software that can be run and how much data can be manipulated.
The available RAM at present ranges from 32 MB, 64 MB or 128 MB up to 1GB or
more. Whatever data is held in the RAM is erased when the computer is reset or
the power is turned off.
⚫ Read Only Memory (ROM) - aside from the RAM, the computer also has a ROM,
which is used to store the boot program, and other low-level information that
enables the computer to start up and to recognize its hardware parts.

D. Storage Devices
A computer can be utilized with only processing, memory, input, and output
devices. To make it very valuable, however, a computer also needs a place to hold
program files and all related files when they are not in use. The goal of using a storage
is to keep data permanently. The hardware used to retain data for future use are called
storage device. These devices may be found inside or outside the computer. There are
different kinds of storage devices. Among these are optical devices (CD-ROM, DVD),
and magnetic devices (tapes, disks).

⚫ Magnetic: Floppy disk, Zip disk, Jaz disk, hard disk, tapes
◼ Diskettes or floppy disks are round pieces of flat plastic that store data as
magnetized spots on sectors and tracks. The popular size is the 3.5-inch disk
that can store 1.4 MB of data. Bigger disk capacities are also available. These
are the Zip disk (100MB - 250MB) and the Jaz disk (2GB). Both require special
drives. They are used for backing up data. Magnetic disks with still bigger
capacities are called hard disks (10GB-80GB).
◼ Hard Disk - mass storage device for software applications and data files. It
provides a semi-permanent storage place for data. At present, hard disks
have high capacities. A hard drive For the PC users, hard disks ranging from
10GB to 2TB of storage space are available in the market while those available
to big companies and corporations can go higher than 2 terabytes of storage
space.
◼ Magnetic Tapes - another type of storage medium. They are made of flexible
plastic coated on one side with a magnetic material. Data is represented in
magnetized spots. They are used primarily for backing-up data that are stored

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 onsite for data recovery in case of data loss through natural calamities or
accidental/intentional man-made disasters

⚫ Optical Storage Devices: CD-ROM, Digital Versatile Disk (DVD), Rewritable CDs
and DVDs
◼ Compact Disc Read Only Memory (CD-ROM) - they are read and written by
lasers. They are used commercially to store system software, application
software, and data. Examples of data stored are: Bibliographic resources
(Catalogs and indexes), abstracts, and multimedia products (including sound,
video, and images). A CD-ROM can store at least 650MB of data, with newer
ones storing up to 700MB (and efforts are being made to double this capacity
to 1.3GB of disc space).
◼ CD-Recordable and CD-Read Write - new types of optical storage devices like
CD-Rs and CD-RWs allow you to record and rewrite data in a blank compact
disc. Data on CD-ROM cannot be edited since the disk is a read-only medium.
CD-R are discs used to record data. Data recorded in a blank CD-R cannot be
rewritten, if deleted the space used to store the data is no longer recovered.
Data written in CD-RW can be erased and rewritten without a lost of storage
space just like a hard disk drive. However, data stored in CD-RW can only be
read by multiread CD drives like CD-RW devices and other compatible devices
with the corresponding software
◼ Digital Versatile Discs (DVDs) - optical discs that share the same overall
dimensions of a CD, but have significant higher capacities - a minimum of 4.7
GB (enough for a full-length movie) to 17GB (double sided). DVD drives are
backward-compatible with CD-ROMs. Two competing technologies using
different standards for a rewritable DVD are currently available: DVD-RAM
and DVD-RW. Both allow data storage and recording of digital video on to
4.7GB DVD discs (just like a CD-RW). However, rewritable DVD is still in its
infancy stage, thus it would be wise to wait until the technology has matured
to ensure that support for its standards and compatibility with various media
and devices are widely available.

E. Communications hardware - also called networking devices, are used to extend

the processing capabilities of a computer system by providing means of transferring
data and applications from one computer system to another. Communications
hardware are used to link to existing communication networks like the Internet that
allows electronic transfer of information anytime, anywhere.

F. Other Hardware Components - in addition to the input/output devices, memory,

processor, ROM, and storage devices, there are other hardware components that help
in the computer’s performance. Among these are: the housing, the power source, the
motherboard, ports, adaptor cards, etc.

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Classification of Software

A computer system is generally composed of hardware and software. Hardware make up

the physical components. Software make up the set of instructions for the computer.
Without software, the computer will not be able to perform its tasks.

⚫ General instructions: Systems software or operating system such as DOS, Windows,

and Unix
◼ Operating System - an organized collection of system programs, which serve as
the interface between the user or application and the computer. It manages the
hardware resources:
◆ The CPU - to facilitate sharing execution time of processes
◆ The memory - to allocate memory resources dynamically
◆ The I/O - to handle reading and writing devices

◼ Disk Operating System (DOS) - a generic term describing any operating system
that is loaded from disk devices when the system is started or rebooted. It is not
a user-friendly operating system (OS) since users need to memorize commands
and issue them by entering them line-by-line. This is known as a command-line
interface. Very few end-users use DOS nowadays.

◼ Microsoft Windows - a graphical user interface (GUI) originally running on DOS

(Windows 3.x) that allows multitasking or the ability to run programs at the same
time. About 75% of the worlds PC use the Windows operating system. The
present versions in use are Windows 98 and Windows 2000

◼ Other operating systems -

◆ IBM OS/2
◆ Macintosh OS
◆ SCO Unix
◆ Linux
◆ Proprietary OS

⚫ Specific instructions: Application software such as that used for word processing,
spreadsheets, or accounting, student management, hotel management, library
management, animation, etc. The nature of the software depends on the application.

◼ General purpose office software

◆ Word processing: Example: MSWord, Notepad
◆ Spreadsheets: Example Excel, Lotus 123
◆ Database management systems: Example: MS Access, Oracle
◆ Presentation/Graphics: Example, PowerPoint, Corel, Photoshop

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 ◼ Business management software
◼ Special discipline software
◼ Other applications

TIPS: If you want to know more about computer and its components then
check this link https://edu.gcfglobal.org/en/computerbasics/
Work through the Computer Basics Lessons, Interactives, and take the quiz
under Extras. The quiz is not graded but will provide you a good feedback
on your understanding of the content.

Uses of Computers
Every day, people around the world rely on different types of computers for a
variety of applications. To illustrate the range of uses for computers, this topic takes you
on a narrative tour of five categories of users: a home user, a small office/home office
(SOHO) user, a mobile user, a power user, and an enterprise user.

⚫ Home User
In an increasing number of homes, the computer is a basic necessity. Each family
member, or home user, spends time on the computer for different reasons. These include
personal financial management, Web access, communications, and entertainment.
On the Internet, home users access a huge amount of information, conduct
research, take college classes, pay bills, manage investments, make telephone, shop,
listen to the radio, watch movies, read books, file taxes, book airline reservations, make
telephone calls, and play games. They also communicate with others around the world
through e-mail, blogs, instant messages, and chat rooms. Home users share ideas,
interests, photos, music, and videos on social networking Web sites.
With a digital camera, home users take photos and then send the electronic images
to others. Many home users have a portable media player, so that they can listen to
downloaded music and/or podcasts at a later time though earbuds attached to the player.
They also usually have one or more game consoles to play video games.
Today’s home typically have one or more desktop computers. Some home users
network multiple desktop computers throughout the house, often wirelessly. These small
networks allow family members to share an Internet connection and a printer.
Home users have a variety of software. They type letters, homework assignments,
and other documents with word processing software. Personal finance software helps the
home user with personal finances, investments, and family budgets. Other software
assists with preparing taxes, keeping a household inventory, setting up maintenance
schedules, and protecting computers against threats and unauthorized intrusions.
Reference software, such as encyclopedias, medical dictionaries, or a road atlas,
provides valuable information for everyone in the family. With entertainment software,
the home user can play games, compose music, research genealogy, or create greeting
cards. Educational software helps adults learn to speak a foreign language and
youngsters to read, write, count, and spell.
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 NOTE:
How many households do not use the Internet or related technologies?
A recent survey estimates that 18 percent of U.S. households have
no Internet access. Furthermore, about 20 percent of U.S. heads of
households have never sent an email message. The chart below illustrates
the lack of experience with computer and Internet technology.

⚫ Small Office/Home Office User

Computers assist small business and home office users in managing their resources
effectively. A small office/home office (SOHO) includes any company with fewer than 50
employees, as well as the self-employed who work from home. Small offices include law
practices, accounting firms, travel agencies, and florists. SOHO users typically use a
desktop computer. Many also use smart phones.
SOHO users access the Internet — often wirelessly — to look up information such
as addresses, directions, postal codes, flights, and package shipping rates or to send and
receive e-mail messages, or make telephone calls. Many have entered the e-commerce
arena and conduct business on the Web. Their Web sites advertise products and services
and may provide a means for taking orders.
To save money on hardware and software, small offices often network their
computers. For example, the small office connects one printer to a network for all
employees to share. SOHO users often work with basic business software such as word
processing and spreadsheet programs that assist with document preparation and
finances. They are likely to use other industry-specific types of software. An auto parts
store, for example, will have software that allows for looking up parts, taking orders and
payments, and updating inventory.

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⚫ Mobile User
Today, businesses and schools are expanding to serve people across the country
and around the world. Thus, increasingly more employees and students are mobile users,
who work on a mobile computer or device while away from a main office, home office,
or school. Some examples of mobile users are sales representatives, real estate agents,
insurance agents, meter readers, package delivery people, journalists, and students.
Mobile users often have a mobile computer and/or mobile device. With these
computers and devices, the mobile user can connect to other computers on a network or
the Internet, often wirelessly accessing services such as e-mail and the Web. Mobile users
can transfer information between their mobile devices and another computer. For
entertainment, the mobile user plays video games on a handheld game console and
listens to music or watches movies on a portable media player.
The mobile user works with basic business software such as word processing and
spreadsheet software. With presentation software, the mobile user can create and deliver
presentations to a large audience by connecting a mobile computer or device to a video
projector that displays the presentation on a full screen.

⚫ Power User
Another category of user, called a power user, requires the capabilities of a
powerful desktop computer, called a work station. Examples of power users include
engineers, scientists, architects, desktop publishers, and graphic artists. Power users
typically work with multimedia, combining text, graphics, audio, and video into one
application. These users need computers with extremely fast processors because of the
nature of their work.
The power user’s workstation contains industry-specific software. For example,
engineers and architects use software to draft and design floor plans, mechanical
assemblies, or vehicles. A desktop publisher uses software to prepare marketing
literature. A graphic artist uses software to create sophisticated drawings. This software
usually is expensive because of its specialized design. Power users exist in all types of
businesses. Some also work at home. Their computers typically have network connections
and Internet access.

⚫ Enterprise User
An enterprise has hundreds or thousands of employees or customers that work in
or do business with offices across a region, the country, or the world. Each employee or
customer who uses a computer in the enterprise is an enterprise user. Many large
companies use the words, enterprise computing, to refer to the huge network of
computers that meets their diverse computing needs. The network facilitates
communications among employees at all locations. Users access the network through
desktop computers, mobile computers, and mobile devices.
Enterprises use computers and the computer network to process high volumes of
transactions in a single day. Although they may differ in size and in the products or
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services offered, all generally use computers for basic business activities. For example,
they bill millions of customers or prepare payroll for thousands of employees.
Some enterprises use blogs to open communications among employees and/or
customers. Enterprises typically have e-commerce Web sites, allowing customers and
vendors to conduct business online. The Web site showcases products, services, and
other company information. Customers, vendors, and other interested parties can access
this information on the Web. The marketing department in an enterprise uses desktop
publishing software to prepare marketing literature. The accounting department uses
software for accounts receivable, accounts payable, billing, general ledger, and payroll
activities.
Enterprise users work with word processing, spreadsheet, database, and
presentation software. They also may use calendar programs to post their schedules on
the network. And, they might use smart phones or other mobile devices to maintain
contact information. E-mail programs and Web browsers enable communications among
employees, vendors, and customers. Many employees of enterprises today telecommute.
Telecommuting is a work arrangement in which employees work away from a company’s
standard workplace and often communicate with the office through the computer.
Employees who telecommute have flexible work schedules so that they can combine work
and personal responsibilities, such as child care.

Computer Applications in Society

The computer has changed society today as much as the industrial revolution
changed society in the 18th and 19th centuries. People interact directly with computers in
fields such as education, finance, government, health care, science, publishing, travel,
and manufacturing. In addition, they can reap the benefits from breakthroughs and
advances in these fields.

⚫ Education
Education is the process of acquiring knowledge. In the traditional model, people
learn from other people such as parents, teachers, and employers. Many forms of printed
material such as books and manuals are used as learning tools. Today, educators also
are turning to computers to assist with education.
Many schools and companies equip labs and classrooms with computers. Some
schools require students to have a mobile computer or mobile device to access the
school’s network or Internet wirelessly.
Students use software to assist with learning or to complete assignments. To
promote education by computer, many vendors offer substantial student discounts on
software.
Sometimes, the delivery of education occurs at one place while the learning occurs
at other locations. For example, students can take a class on the Web. More than 70
percent of colleges offer distance learning classes. A few even offer entire degrees online.

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⚫ Finance
Many people and companies use computers to help manage their finances. Some use
finance software to balance checkbooks, pay bills, track personal income and expenses,
manage investments, and evaluate financial plans. This software usually includes a
variety of online banking. With online banking, users access account balances, pay bills,
and copy monthly transactions from the bank’s computer right into their computers.
Investors often use online investing to buy and sell stocks and bonds — without using a
broker.
With online investing, the transaction fee for each trade usually is much less than
when trading through a broker.

⚫ Government
A government provides society with direction by making and administering policies.
To provide citizens with up-to-date information, most government offices have Web sites.
People access government Web sites to file taxes, apply for permits and licenses, pay
parking tickets, buy stamps, report crimes, apply for financial aid,
and renew vehicle registrations and driver’s licenses.
Employees of government agencies use computers as part of their daily routine.
Military and other agency officials use the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s
network of information about domestic security threats to help protect our nation. Law
enforcement officers have online access to the FBI’s National Crime Information Center
(NCIC) through in-vehicle computers, fingerprint readers, and mobile devices. The NCIC
contains more than 52 million missing persons and criminal records, including names,
fingerprints, parole/probation records, mug shots, and other information.
In the Philippines, the government had been working on its program for
automation of most of government transactions. The national ID is being pushed by the
administration for a more centralized database of its constituents. Transactions in several
government offices now are done with computer-based information systems to address
long queues.

⚫ Health Care
Nearly every area of health care uses computers. Whether you are visiting a family
doctor for a regular checkup, having lab work or an outpatient test, or being rushed in
for emergency surgery, the medical staff around you will be using computers for various
purposes:
• Doctors use the Web and medical software to assist with researching and
diagnosing health conditions.
• Doctors use e-mail to correspond with patients.
• Pharmacists use computers to file insurance claims.
• Robots deliver medication to nurse stations in hospitals.
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 • Hospitals and doctors use computers and mobile devices to maintain and access
patient records.
• Computers and computerized devices assist doctors, nurses, and technicians with
medical tests.
• Computers monitor patients’ vital signs in hospital rooms and at home.
• Surgeons implant computerized devices, such as pacemakers, that allow patients
to live longer.
• Surgeons use computer-controlled devices to provide them with greater precision
during operations, such as for laser eye surgery and robot-assisted heart surgery.
Two forms of long-distance health care are telemedicine and telesurgery. Through
telemedicine, health-care professionals in separate locations conduct live conferences on
the computer. For example, a doctor at one location can have a conference with a doctor
at another location to discuss a bone X-ray. Live images of each doctor, along with the
X-ray, are displayed on each doctor’s computer.
With telesurgery, a surgeon performs an operation on a patient who is not located
in the same physical room as the surgeon. Telesurgery enables surgeons to direct robots
to perform an operation via computers connected to a high-speed network.
⚫ Science
All branches of science, from biology to astronomy to meteorology, use computers
to assist them with collecting, analyzing, and modeling data. Scientists also use the
Internet to communicate with colleagues around the world.
Breakthroughs in surgery, medicine, and treatments often result from scientists’
use of computers. Tiny computers now imitate functions of the central nervous system,
retina of the eye, and cochlea of the ear. A cochlear implant allows a deaf person to
listen. Electrodes implanted in the brain stop tremors associated with Parkinson’s disease.
Cameras small enough to swallow — sometimes called a camera pill — take pictures
inside your body to detect polyps, cancer, and other abnormalities

⚫ Publishing
Publishing is the process of making works available to the public. These works
include books, magazines, newspapers, music, film, and video. Special software assists
graphic designers in developing pages that include text, graphics, and photos; artists in
composing and enhancing songs; film makers in creating and editing film; and journalists
and mobile users in capturing and modifying video clips.
Many publishers make their works available online. Some Web sites allow you to
copy the work, such as a book or music, to your desktop computer, mobile computer,
smartphone, or other mobile device.

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⚫ Travel
Many vehicles manufactured today include some type of onboard navigation
system. Some mobile users prefer to carry specialized handheld navigation devices. In
preparing for a trip, you may need to reserve a car, hotel, or flight. Many Web sites offer
these services to the public. For example, you can order airline tickets on the Web. If you
plan to drive somewhere and are unsure of the road to take to your destination, you can
print directions and a map from the Web.
⚫ Manufacturing
Computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) refers to the use of computers to assist with
manufacturing processes such as fabrication and assembly. Often, robots carry out
processes in a CAM environment. CAM is used by a variety of industries, including oil
drilling, power generation, food production, and automobile manufacturing. Automobile
plants, for example, have an entire line of industrial robots that assemble a car.

Why Computers are Powerful

Computers are powerful for a variety of reasons. They work with remarkable
speed, reliability, consistency, and accuracy. Computers can store large amounts of data
and information. Also, computers allow users to communicate with other users or
computers.

A user is anyone who communicates and interacts with a computer or makes use
of the information it generates. Both business and home users can make well-informed
decisions because they have instant access to information from anywhere in the world.
Students, another type of user, have more tools to assist them in the learning process.
Advantages are numerous and few of which are the following:

⚫ Speed - in the system, operations get done through electronic circuits. When data,
instructions, and information drift along these circuits, they travel at incredibly fast
speeds. Most computers bring out billions of operations in a single second. The
world’s fastest computer can perform trillions of operations in one second.
⚫ Reliability and consistency - the electronic components in modern computers are
dependable because they have a low failure rate. The high reliability of components
enables the computer to produce consistent results.
⚫ Accuracy - computers process large amounts of data and generate error-free results,
provided the data is entered correctly and the instructions work properly. If data is
inaccurate, the resulting output is also incorrect. A computing phrase known as
garbage in, garbage out points out that the accuracy of a computer’s output depends
on the accuracy of the input.
⚫ Communication - it is unbearable to go through a day without communication.
Communication happens between two or more people sending and receiving

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 messages from one another. The one sending the message is referred to as the
sender while the one receiving the information is known as the receiver. The message
being transmitted can contain facts, thoughts, perceptions, judgments, beliefs,
attitudes, commands, and even reactions. For example, two computers connected by
a communications device, such as a modem, can share stored data, instructions, and
information. These two computers can be located in the same room or thousands of
miles away from each other in two different countries.

On the other hand, it is undeniable that there are also disadvantages of computers.
Some advantages of computers relate to the violation of privacy, public safety, the impact
on the labor force, health risks, and the impact on the environment.
⚫ Violation of Privacy: In many instances, where personal and confidential records
stored on computers were not protected properly, individuals have found their
privacy violated and identities stolen.
⚫ Public Safety: Adults, teens, and children around the world are using computers
to share publicly their photos, videos, journals, music, and other personal
information. Some of these unsuspecting, innocent computer users have fallen
victim to crimes committed by dangerous strangers.
⚫ Impact on Labor Force: Although computers have improved productivity and
created an entire industry with hundreds of thousands of new jobs, the skills of
millions of employees have been replaced by computers. Thus, it is crucial that
workers keep their education up-to-date. A separate impact on the labor force is
that some companies are outsourcing jobs to foreign countries instead of keeping
their homeland labor force employed.
⚫ Health Risks: Prolonged or improper computer use can lead to health injuries or
disorders. Computer users can protect themselves from health risks through
proper workplace design good posture while at the computer, and appropriately
spaced work breaks. Two behavioral health risks are computer addiction and
technology overload. Computer addiction occurs when someone becomes
obsessed with using a computer. Individuals suffering from technology overload
feel distressed when deprived of computers and mobile devices.
⚫ Impact on Environment: Computer manufacturing processes and computer
waste are depleting natural resources and polluting the environment. Green
computing involves reducing the electricity consumed and environmental waste
generated when using a computer. Strategies that support green computing
include recycling, regulating manufacturing processes, extending the life of
computers, and immediately donating or properly disposing of replaced
computers.

Digital Age, Information Age, Computer Age

Digital age, information age, and computer age, used interchangeably, capture the
ubiquitous nature of computing and the prolific use of technology in almost all aspects of
human activity such that digital interaction is a defining characteristic of human activity.
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 It is a period in human history characterized by the shift from traditional industry
to information technology-based economy brought by industrialization during the
Industrial Revolution. The definition of what digital means (or what information means)
continues to change over time as new technologies, user devices, and methods of
interaction with other people and devices enter the domain of research, development,
and market launch.
This period is also characterized by the digital industry crating a knowledge-based
society surrounded by a high-tech global economy that exerts its influence on how the
manufacturing process and the service sector work in an efficient and convenient way.

Media in the Digital Age

Media normally refers to the means of communication that uses unique tools to
interconnect among people. The forms of media include television, radio, cellular phones,
and internet (which involves the access and use of various social media sites such as
Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube, among others). In the digital age, however,
media can be considered as the message, the medium, and the messenger.

⚫ The Message
✓ Media is considered to be the message itself for those who create and own the
rights of content
✓ The forms of content can be user-generated or professionally-produced
✓ User-generated content (UGC) is a form of content created and owned by the
users of a system
✓ UGC has grown exponentially especially with the wide internet coverage or easy
WiFi access, increased social media participation, and affordable smart devices.

◼ Blog - keeping a diary or a journal is a traditional method of recording one’s

thoughts or expressing one’s emotions through writing. With the advent of the
internet, expressing one’s feelings and thoughts was given a new concept
through online writing or blogging. A blog is a combination of two words - web
and log. It works the same way as pen and paper would but privacy becomes
irrelevant given that a blog post can be seen by anyone online. A person who
writes blogs is called a blogger.

⚫ The Medium
✓ The medium used refers to the tool or tools used in sending a message
from the source to the destination
✓ Traditionally, for example, professionals send messages to the audience,
such as a news anchor delivering the news on TV and/or radio with the
latest technologies, the so-called social media has become an avenue for
information dissemination even taking over news sites in bringing the latest
or up-to-date content

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 ✓ Example is Twitter where users of this application can constantly update
other Twitter users about a certain topic and users can also share other
users’ content (in the form of retweeting) and discuss any topic with one
another. Thus, the media, instead of just being an avenue for delivering
messages, is becoming increasingly social - with the audience themselves
creating their own content and interacting with one another.

⚫ The Messenger
✓ the one who delivers the message
✓ this is why broadcasters, for example, being the messenger of news are
called “media.”
✓ in the digital space, media also refer to social network users who create
content themselves but are not professional journalists
✓ although the media can be the message, the medium, and the messenger,
the demarcation lines between them are somewhat blurry in the digital age

Evolution of Media
The media has transformed itself based on two things:
1. How information is presented
2. How the connection is established

⚫ Early 15th century - Woodcut printing on cloth or on paper was used

⚫ 1436 - Johannes Gutenberg started working on a printing press which used relief
printing and a molding system
⚫ Now - modern printing press delivers messages in print, such as newspapers,
textbooks, and magazines
⚫ 1800s - the telegraph was developed followed by the telephone which made the two-
way communication possible and that message sending and receiving can now be
done both ways simultaneously
⚫ 1900s - broadcasting and recorded media were introduced where radio and television
were used to send sound and video to homes and offices through electromagnetic
spectrum or radio waves; audio (lower frequency band) or video (higher frequency
band) content can be received depending on the frequency used
⚫ Later, a combination of both audio and video information made the audience’s
viewing experience more exciting
⚫ Films and movies became popular as they catered to larger audiences
⚫ As communication devices also evolved and because pervasive, so did information
distribution
⚫ A photo taken using a smartphone can immediately be uploaded and shared on
Facebook, twitter, or Instagram
⚫ Community websites such as OLX.ph, a Philippine counterpart of ebay.com, lets its
users buy and sell items online
⚫ This eliminates the need for going to physical stores
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⚫ In line with this development, the audience regardless of their professions can now
interact with one another and are no longer disconnected
⚫ News sites can even get news stories for example from Twitter or other social media
sites
⚫ One good example of this happened on January 15, 2009, when dozens of New
Yorkers sent “tweets” about a plane crash in the city and the news about the US
Airways Flight 1549 which was forced to land in the Hudson River in Manhattan, USA
immediately spread all over the country (Beaumont, The Telegraph author)

Overview of Current Trends

⚫ Trend - refers to something hip or popular at a certain point in time

- it can be a particular fashion, devices, or entertainment
- a new trend may always come along to replace the old one
⚫ Technology trends - tend to change as time goes by
- following Moore’s Law, technology is bound to upgrade itself every two years
- Gordon Moore, in 1965, predicted that the computing power would dramatically
increase over time
- as it increases, cost is expected to proportionally go down

Nowadays, the two-year prediction has even decreased, with releases happening
less than two years, if not, yearly

Aside from cost, sizes of hardware have also decreased in making devices, such as
smartphones, more useful and dependable

⚫ A few years ago, people would have a cellular phone, a digital camera, a portable
music player, and a laptop with them
⚫ Phones will be used to text and make calls, the digital camera to take pictures, and
the music player to listen to music while doing their work on their laptop
⚫ Now, smartphones are capable of doing the aforementioned activities and a lot more
through applications or “apps” made available online
⚫ Smartphone was coined as the cellular or mobile phone has now become smarter - it
can run apps which help people perform their day-to-day activities
⚫ App turn mobile devices into miniature PCs capable of browsing the web, taking down
notes, and playing games, among other
⚫ By default, smartphones come installed with basic apps such as making calls, sending
text messages, playing music, and managing schedules
⚫ As of 2017, Google Play has approximately 2.8 million apps available for Android
users, whereas Apple’s App Store is estimated to have 2.2 million
⚫ These apps are not just limited to smartphones

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⚫ They can be used in other mobile devices, including tablets and, another recent trend,
wearable devices
⚫ In an article from Forbed.com, DeMers (2016) identified seven major trends in 2017
and 2019

◼ Internet of Things (IoT) and smart home technology

- IoT has been trending since 2016
- its vision has evolved due to the convergence of multiple technologies
including pervasive wireless communication, data analytics, machine learning, and
use of hardware technology such as sensors, microprocessors, and microcontrollers
- controlling home appliances through a mobile phone - such as switching the
lights on and off, setting the timer for the washing machine, and controlling the
television to record shows that might be missed due to traffic - is now possible

◼ Augmented reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR)

- the release of games, in 2016, such as Pokemon Go and the anticipated VR
headset, Oculus Rift, served as a turning point for AR and VR technology

◼ Machine Learning
- machines decide for you seems to be a daunting task and would probably make
you think of robots and talking computers similar to Iron Man’s Jarvis
- in the recent release of Apple’s iPhone X, it was not just the design that
improved but the iOS’ intelligent personal assistant, Siri, has also been upgraded with
enhanced learning making the use of iPhone more efficient wherein its latest features
include the following
◆ Face ID - the owner’s face is the new password. It is a more secure way to
unlock the phone and keep the data safe
◆ A11 Bionic - claimed to be the “most powerful and smartest chip ever made
in a smartphone,” with a neural engine capable of up to 600 billion operations
per second; a neural engine, a type of artificial intelligence, enables computers
to learn from observation
◆ Wireless charging - a cable is not needed to charge the device
◆ iOS 11 - in its latest operating system, one can scan documents in the notes
app, edit live photos, and in the U.S., even pay friends in Messages. Siri can also
translate language
◆ Augmented Reality - this is not just designed for fun but also meant for
productivity and efficiency; it allows one to navigate without looking a t a map,
visualize industrial equipment, and many others

◼ Automation - through advanced technology, it is now possible to automate

previously human-exclusive tasks

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 - this is very much evident through wearable devices such as step counters
and heart rate monitors used by health-conscious individuals. Information collected
is automatically saved and stored in mobile devices for analysis later on.
◼ Big Data - a term that describes large and complex volumes of data. But is is not
how much data an organization has it is what they do with that matters.
- can be analyzed for insights which can help management make better
decisions and come up with more effective strategic plans
- An example of an app that uses big data is Waze as it helps users determine
traffic, direction, and route estimations, and notifies users with accident alerts and
road hazards, among others
◼ Physical-digital integrations
- majority of organizations nowadays are moving towards system automation
- they identify their physical elements and crate digital data for more efficient
operation and back-up
- the concept of having a “paperless company” in which transactions, reports,
and services are done using automated systems is one such example
- not only is it reliable but also environment-friendly
◼ Everything on demand
- due to the prevalence of network connectivity, it is possible to have
information on demand
- music, movies, and even drives are made available through the apps in a
smartphone (example: Grab)

IMPACT OF ICT ON INDIVIDUALS, ORGANIZATION, AND SOCIETY

ICT brings both positive and negative effects to individuals, organizations, and
society. It improves education, access to information, and security. However, it limits
personal interaction and physical activity and poses problems in employment and
security.
POSITIVE EFECTS
> Improved access to education
There are new ways of learning such as the use of learning managements system (LMS)
which implements educational enhancements such as distance learning and online
tutorials virtual reality, and interactive multimedia.
> Security
With the advancements that ICT brings, individuals and organizations can solve any
security problems. Examples of security measure on applications are:(1) the use of
encryption software; (2) the use of password/s for the personal information protection;
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and (3) the development of physical security system such as biometrics in a form of
fingerprint, facial recognition, iris (eye) recognition, and voice recognition.
NEGATIVE EFFECTS
> Reduced personal interaction and physical activity
Because of virtual communication, ironically, people are less likely to talk or meet each
other in person. And because of the comfort of working from home and the entertainment
that the internet offers (I.e., streaming movies, playing online games, etc.), physical
activity is reduced leading to health issues such as obesity and heart disease.
> Job loss or increase in unemployment
This can be considered as one of the worst effects of ICT.
⚫ Multiple workers being replaced and reduced by a smaller number or employees
capable of doing the same volume of tasks
⚫ Shipping or freight services in which a certain amount is added to the operating costs
for the physical process of transporting commodities or goods
⚫ Automation through robots or machines replacing people in the assembly line.
> Security
ICT brings not only improvement but also threat to security. Data or files must always
be kept secure and safe. The internet connection must always be safeguarded from
different attacks such as data modification, identity/IP address spoofing, password-based
attacks, denial-of-service, etc. Computers should also be protected from various forms of
viruses and malware which are released almost every day.

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