COMPUTERS AND THE INTERNET

Introduction:

The computer with the Internet is a form of Information and Communications Technology (ICT). It has
completely transformed our lives at home, at work and on the move.

ICT includes anything with built-in computer-power (eg. mobile phones, DVD-players, alarm systems,
digital cameras, television and robotic systems).

The internet:

The internet is a network of interconnected computer networks. It serves as a transport medium for
electric information. It enables computers to communicate directly, which allows users to exchange
information on a global scale.

It was born in the USA in the early 1960s, out of a defence-oriented development.

The most popular part of the Internet is the World Wide Web.

Positive aspects of the computer age:

 data management: thanks to its speed and capacity, it is an ideal tool for handling virtually
limitless amount of information.
 it is an infinite source of useful information about every subject, which can be accessed any
time, anywhere.
 beneficial to the economy:
o ICT has changed and intensified communication dramatically
o the internet is a fabulous marketing tool
o beneficial to emloyees: it creates thousands of jobs (well-trained workforce in the
world of high-technology is needed)
 ICT has changed our everyday life: e-learning, online shopping, online banking, online
entertaining, communication with our family and friends

Negative aspects of the computer age:

 misuse of communication systems:

o hackers caused a havoc through stealing, changing and deleting information; stolen
information is often used for criminal purposes
o viruses and worms can destroy files.
o terrorists can use internet to attack computer systems or to reach more people.
 the huge amount of information that is available on the internet has also drawbacks:
o we do not know whether the information is accurate, current or not
o computer literacy skills are needed to use search tools effectively
 internet is becoming more and more of a dominant feature of our lives: internet addiction.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Aqg6LxGCz44 History of computers
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cKaWJ72x1rI What is internet doing to our brains?