GENERAL ELECTIVES REVIEWER
by: Cristina Rondena BSEE-3B
INTRODUCTION TO INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY
The concept of the technology has evolved through out 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 advancement in communication and how
information is handled. It has made communication much easier and faster through telephones,
computers, and mobile devices.
Information and Communication Technology or 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". It refers to
technology that supports activities involving information such as gathering, processing, storing and
presenting data. Increasingly, these activities also involve collaboration and communication.
IT VERSUS ICT
Information and Communication Technology or ICT, is 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.
IT, or Information Technology 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. Simply put, IT is a subset of ICT as the
technology used in the field of IT aids in the used of ICT (Wang 2016)
BREAKDOWN OF ICT
• Information
Information refers to the knowledge obtained from reading, investigation, study, or research.
Some of the tools that transmit information are the telephone, television, and radio. Not to be confused
with data, information is regarded as processed data. Process information is called knowledge.
Knowledge helps fulfill daily tasks.
• Communication
Communication is an act of transmitting messages . It is a process in which information is
exchanged between individuals through verbal and non-verbal means.
• Technology
Technology has evolved in ways that improve people’s daily activities. As mentioned above,
technology has made communication much easier and faster through telephones, fax machines, mobile
devices and the internet.
HISTORY OF COMPUTER
With the evolution of technology, computers have taken a major role in the last three decades.
This is due to the fact that people have become increasingly dependent on computers to their daily tasks
in school, at work, or in their routines. What started off as simply for research purposes, computers are
now designed to be more compact, more mobile, and more integrated in people’s daily activities.
Computers have evolved based on the type of components used in the design. The term computer is
an electronic device, operating under the control of instructions stored in its own memory, that can
accept data, manipulate the data according to specific rules, results, and store the results for future use. At
present, scientists and researchers have identified five generations based on design, suitability, and
reliability. The generations of computers are briefly defined (Pepito, 2002)
• First-Generation Computer (1946 -1959)
The first electronic computer was developed in 1946. Designed byJ. Presper Eckert and John W.
Mauchly from the University of Pennsylvania and financed by the United States Army, the Electronic
Numeric Integrator and Calculator (ENIAC) is considered to be the first-generation computer. ENIAC
was modular computer, composed of several panels capable of performing different functions. However,
it could store only limited or small amount of information and only do arithmetic operations such as
addition and subtractions of up to 10 digits. The computer was roughly 167 square meters in size, and
weighed 27 tons.
• Second-Generation Computer (1959 -1965)
In this second generation, the transistor was used as the interior sections of the computer. Transistors
were much smaller, faster, and more dependable than the vacuum tubes of the first generation computer.
They generated less heat and consumed less electricity but were still very costly.
• Third-Generation Computer (1965-1971)
In 1965, Jack Kilby invented the integrated circuit (IC) that was used instead of transistors as the
interior sections to build the computer. A single IC has many transistors, resistors, and capacitors that
even the full circuit board of a transistors can be replaced entirely with one chip. This chip made the
computers smaller, unfailing , and effective. In this third generation, remote processing, time-sharing and
multiprogramming operating system were used.
• Fourth-Generation Computer (1971-1980)
From 1971 to 1980, very large scale integrated (VLSI) circuits were used to build computers. These
circuits have about 5,000 transistors and other circuit elements with their connected circuits on a single
chip known as the microprocessor. These fourth-generation computers such as personal computers
became more powerful, dense, reliable, and inexpensive.
• Fifth-Generation Computer
In this fifth generation, the VLSI technology has evolved into what is called ultra large-scale
integration (ULSI) technology, with the manufacture of microprocessor chips having 10 million electronic
components. This generation involves computer intelligence which is associated with artificial intelligence
(AI), natural language, and expert systems that interpret the means and practices of producing computers
that think like human beings.
COMPONENTS OF A COMPUTER
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 software applications. The hardware pertains to the computer’s physical devices. It is any
part of the computer that can be seen and touched. A computer’s hardware consists of irrelated electronic
devices that are used to manipulate that computer’s operation, input devices and output devices.
• INPUT DEVICES
Input devices enter or send data and instructions from the user or from 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

Scanner

Mouse

Digital camera

Microphone

PC video camera
• A Keyboard
A Keyboard is the most common input device that accepts letters, numbers, and commands from
the user.
• A 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.
• A Microphone
Allows a user to speak into the computer to input data and instructions.
• A Scanner
Converts printed material (such as text and pictures) into a form the computer can use.
• A 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.
• A PC video Camera
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.
•OUTPUT DEVICES
An output devices is any hardware component that transmits information to one or more people.
The commonly used output devices are as follows:
• Printer
• Monitor
• Speaker
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 user or computers. A user is anyone who communicates and
interacts with a computer or makes use of the information it generates.
CLASSIFICATIONS OF COMPUTERS
Computers can be classified based on the size and computing power. However, as technology
advances, these classifications tend to overlap as modern computers have become smaller, yet more
powerful, and relatively cheaper. The general classifications of computers are as follows:
 Personal computer is a small, single-user computer based on a microprocessor.
 Workstation is powerful, single-user computer. A workstation is like a personal computer, but it
has a more powerful microprocessor and a higher-quality monitor.
 Minicomputer is a multi-user computer capable of supporting from 10 to hundreds of users
simultaneously.
 Mainframe is a powerful multi-user computer capable of supporting hundreds or thousands of
users simultaneously.
Supercomputer is an extremely fast computer that can perform millions of instructions per
second.
The different types of computers are as follows:
• Desktop Computers
Are computers designed to be placed on a desk, and are normally made up of a few different parts,
including the computer case, central processing unit (CPU), monitor, keyboard, and mouse.
• Laptop Computers
Battery-powered computer devices whose portability makes them possible to use almost anytime,
anywhere.
• Tablet Computers
Hand-held computers with touch-sensitive screen for typing and navigation.
• Smartphones
Hand-held telephones which can do things that computers can do, including browsing and
searching the internet and even playing console games.
• Wearables
Include fitness trackers and smart watches that can be worn throughout the day.
• Smart TV
The latest television sets that include applications present in computers. For example, videos can be
streamed from the internet directly onto the TV. The TV can also be used as a computer monitor or
gaming monitor.
DIGITAL AGE, INFORMATION AGE, AND 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 aspects of human activity such that digital
interaction is a defining characteristic of human activity.
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 creating 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. In the digital age,
however, media can be considered as the message, the medium, and the messenger.
• The Message
Media us considered to be the message itself for those who create and own the rights of content.
• The Medium
The medium used refers to the tool or tools used in sending a message from a source to the
destination.
• The Messenger
The messenger is the one who delivers the message.
EVOLUTION OF MEDIA
The media has transformed itself based on two things (1) how information is presented (2) how
the connection is established . Woodcut printing on cloth or on paper was used in the early 15th century.
It was in 1436 when Johannes Guternberg started working on a printing press delivers messages in print,
such as newspapers, textbooks, and magazines.
In the 1800s, the telegraph was developed followed by the telephone which made the two-way
communication possible.
At the beginning of the 1900s, broadcasting and recorded media were introduced. Radio and
television were uses to send sound and video to homes and offices through electromagnetic spectrum or
radio waves . Later on, a combination of both audio and video information made the audience’s viewing
experience more exciting.
As communication devices also evolved and became pervasive so did information distributions. A
photo taken using smart phone can immediately be uploaded and shared on Facebook, Twitter or
Instagram. In line with this development, the audience regardless of their professions can now interact
with one another and are no longer disconnected.
OVERVIEW OF CURRENT TRENDS
• Trend
Refers to something hip or popular at certain point in time. It can be a particular style, 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.
A few years ago, people would have cellular phone, a digital camera, a portable music player and
laptop with them. Now smartphones are capable of doing the activities and a lot more through
applications or “apps” made available online. The term 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. In
an article from Forbes.com, DeMers (2016) identified seven major trends in 2017.
• IoT and Smart Phone Technology
The so-called Internet of Things (IoT) has been trending since 2016. The vision of IoT 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, micro
controllers.
• Augmented reality and virtual reality
In 2016, the release of games such as Pokemon Go and the anticipated VR headset, Oculus Rift,
served as turning point for AR and VR technology.
• Machine Learning
Also called artificial intelligence, having machines decide for you seems to be daunting task and
would probably make you think of robots and talking computers
• Automation
Through advanced technology, it is now possible to automate previously human-exclusive task.
• Big data
Big data is a term that describes large and complex volumes of data. Big data can be analyzed for
insights which can help management make better decisions and come up with more effective strategic
plans.
• Physical-digital Integrations
Majority of organizations nowadays are moving towards system automation. As such, they identify
their physical elements and create digital data for more efficient operation and back-up. Everything on
demand due to the prevalence of network connectivity, it is possible to have information on demand.
IMPACT OF ICT ON INDIVIDUALS, ORGANIZATIONS, AND SOCIETY
ICT brings bot positive and negative effects to individuals, organizations, and society. It improves
education, access to information, and security.
POSITIVE EFFECT
• Improved access to education
• Access to information and communication
• Security
NEGATIVE EFFECT
• Reduced personal interaction and physical activity
• Job loss or increase in unemployment
• Security
ETHICAL ISSUES IN ICT
While some people apply ethical principle to the use of ICT, others simply do not, hence the
proliferation of cyber malpractices. The following are some of the ethical issues in ICT:
• Plagiarism
It is an act of theft in which a person copies another person’s ideas, words, or writings, etc. and pass
them off as his or her own. Those who committed such action may lead to serious legal and ethical
defilements.
• Exploitation
It is an action in which one deals with a person dishonesty, unethically, and dishonorably, in order
to take advantage of the latter’s works and/or resources. This leads to unlawful actions.
• Libel
It can be either be an insult, slur, or slander. Either written or spoken or even through to actions, it
may lead to libel if the accusations is not true and without any piece of evidence.