Computer Application Skills and Concepts Lecture 1 World of computers • The term "world of computers" refers to the widespread use and impact of computers in modern society. • Computers have revolutionized many aspects of our daily lives, including communication, entertainment, education, work, and commerce. World of Computers C’ntd • In the world of computers, people rely on digital technologies to access information, connect with others, and perform various tasks. • These technologies include personal computers, laptops, tablets, smartphones, and other mobile devices, as well as software, applications, and online services. World of Computers C’ntd • The world of computers also encompasses the development and innovation of computer technologies, including hardware, software, and networking. • This field has brought about many advances in areas such as artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and robotics. World of Computers C’ntd • Overall, the world of computers has transformed the way we live, work, and interact with one another. • It has created new opportunities for innovation and growth while also presenting new challenges and risks, such as cybersecurity threats and digital privacy concerns. Information and Data • Information and data are closely related terms, but they have different meanings. • Data refers to raw, unorganized facts or observations that do not have any meaning or context on their own. • It is a collection of characters, numbers, and symbols that can be processed by a computer. Information and Data Cnt’d • On the other hand, information is data that has been processed, organized, and given context to make it meaningful and useful to people. • Information is the result of analyzing, interpreting, and synthesizing data to extract meaning and insights. Information and Data Cnt’d • For example, a list of numbers without any context is just data, but if you organize it into a chart or graph, it becomes information that can be used to make decisions. What is a Computer? • A computer is an electronic device that can perform various tasks by processing data and instructions. • It can input, process, store, and output data based on instructions provided by a user or a program. • Computers come in different sizes and types, from small personal computers to large mainframe systems used in organizations. Categories of Computer • Supercomputer: the most powerful and fastest computers used for complex calculations and simulations. • Mainframe: large and powerful computers used for processing and storing large amounts of data. • Minicomputer: smaller than mainframes but still powerful, used for business and scientific applications. Categories of Computer • Personal computer (PC): small and affordable computers used for personal and office use. • Laptop: a portable version of a personal computer. • Tablet: a handheld device with a touch screen for web browsing, entertainment, and productivity. • Smartphone: a mobile phone with advanced computing capabilities and internet connectivity. Computers as part of the Information System • Computers are a crucial part of information systems, which are used to collect, process, store, and disseminate information. Information systems are made up of hardware, software, data, and people who interact with these components to achieve specific goals. Computers as part of the Information System Cnt’d • Computers are the hardware component of information systems, and they provide the processing power and storage capacity necessary to execute software applications and store data. • They also provide a user interface for people to interact with the system, which includes input devices like keyboards and mice, and output devices like monitors and printers. Computers as part of the Information System Cnt’d • Software applications are the programs that run on computers to perform specific tasks within an information system. • These applications can range from simple word processing programs to complex enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems. Who uses computers? • Computers are used by a wide variety of people, including individuals, businesses, organizations, and governments. • With the proliferation of technology and digitalization, it is hard to imagine a modern society without computers. • Here are some examples of groups that commonly use computers: Who uses computers? Cn’td • Individuals: People use computers for personal use, such as communication, entertainment, education, research, and many other purposes. • Businesses: Computers are used in nearly all businesses to store and manage data, process transactions, and communicate with customers, suppliers, and employees. • Governments: Governments use computers for various purposes, such as managing public services, data collection, analysis, and storage, and communication. • Education: Schools, universities, and other educational institutions use computers for teaching, research, and administration. Who uses computers? Cn’td • Healthcare: Healthcare providers use computers to manage patient records, research, and communication. • Science and Engineering: Scientists and engineers use computers to conduct research, design experiments, analyze data, and develop models. • Entertainment: Computers are used for creating and delivering various forms of entertainment, such as music, movies, games, and virtual reality experiences. Advantages of using a computer • Increased efficiency: Computers can perform tasks quickly and accurately, which can increase productivity and efficiency. • Storage and organization: Computers allow for easy storage and organization of large amounts of data, which can be quickly retrieved when needed. • Communication: Computers allow for instant communication with others through email, messaging, and video conferencing. • Access to information: Computers provide access to vast amounts of information through the internet, which can be useful for learning and research. • Automation: Computers can automate tasks, such as billing and inventory management, which can save time and reduce errors. Disadvantages of using a computer: • Health problems: Prolonged computer use can lead to eyestrain, neck and back pain, and other health issues. • Addiction: Overuse of computers and the internet can lead to addiction, which can interfere with daily life. • Security issues: Computers can be vulnerable to security breaches and hacking, which can compromise personal and sensitive information. • Dependence: Over-reliance on computers can lead to a lack of critical thinking skills and problem-solving abilities. • Cost: Computers can be expensive to purchase and maintain, and software and hardware upgrades can be costly. Networks and the Internet • A network is a group of computers and other devices that are connected to each other to share resources and communicate with each other. The Internet, on the other hand, is a global network of networks that allows people and computers around the world to connect and share information. Advantages of Networks • Resource sharing: Networks allow users to share hardware resources such as printers, scanners, and storage devices, which can reduce costs and increase efficiency. • Communication: Networks allow people to communicate with each other easily through email, messaging, and video conferencing. • Collaboration: Networks allow users to collaborate on projects and share information easily, which can improve productivity and creativity. • Centralized management: Networks can be managed centrally, which can simplify administration and reduce maintenance costs. • Scalability: Networks can be expanded easily to accommodate more users and devices as needed. Advantages of the Internet • Access to information: The Internet provides access to a vast amount of information, which can be useful for learning, research, and entertainment. • Communication: The Internet allows people to communicate with each other easily, regardless of geographic location. • E-commerce: The Internet provides a platform for online shopping, which can be convenient and cost-effective. • Social networking: The Internet allows people to connect with each other through social networking sites, which can be a way to build relationships and share information. • Cloud computing: The Internet provides a platform for cloud computing, which allows users to access software and services over the Internet, without the need for local installation. Disadvantages of Networks and the Internet • Security risks: Networks and the Internet can be vulnerable to security breaches and hacking, which can compromise personal and sensitive information. • Dependence: Over-reliance on networks and the Internet can lead to a lack of critical thinking skills and problem-solving abilities. • Addiction: Overuse of networks and the Internet can lead to addiction, which can interfere with daily life. • Cost: Setting up and maintaining networks and the Internet can be costly, particularly for small businesses and individuals. • Privacy concerns: Networks and the Internet can lead to privacy concerns, particularly with the collection and use of personal data.
