INTRODUCTION TO INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY INFROMATION Refers to the knowledge obtained from reading, investigation, study or research, in other wards information is processed / summarized data that has been organized and arranged in a manner that gives a meaning to the recipient and aids him or her in decision making. DATA Raw facts and figures that are processed into information COMMUNICATION Is an act of transmitting messages. It is a process whereby information is exchanged between individuals using symbols, signs or verbal interactions. Previously communication was done using symbols, poetry, performing drama With the advent of technology communication is done by the use internet, email, or video conferencing, chatting, whatsapp etc. Communication is important in order to gain knowledge and with knowledge one is more confident in expressing their thoughts and ideas TECHNOLOGY The Application of Scientific knowledge, experience and resources to create processes and products that fulfil human needs. OR The application of scientific knowledge to make different operations easier and more convenient. Technology is vital in communication Aiding communication: Telephone, mobile phones, television Spreading communication; news broadcast, weather reports INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY Information Technology, commonly referred to as IT Information Technology is a term used to describe the range of products and systems which handle, manage, process and produce information using a computer and other communication devices. IT is the hardware and software used to create, store, transmit, manipulate and display information and data especially by the aid of Computers IT is foundational to modern society, impacting almost every aspect of our daily lives and the operations of organizations across all sectors. INFORMATION COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY Is the Technology required for information processing, in particular, the use of electronic computers, communication devices and software applications to covert, store, protect, process, transmit and retrieve information from anywhere, any time. IT vs ICT IT is often considered a subset of ICT that deals with the technical aspects of managing information while ICT is a broader term that encompasses both IT and communication technologies IT deals primarily with computer hardware, software and networking technologies, ICT includes not only these technologies but also communication technologies such as telegraph, telephone etc. Key Components of IT: Hardware: Physical devices such as computers, servers, networking equipment, and peripheral devices. Software: Programs and applications that run on hardware, including operating systems, productivity software, and specialized applications. Data: Digital information that is processed and managed by IT systems. Networks: Communication systems that connect different hardware components and enable data exchange, including the internet, intranets, and extranets. Processes and Procedures: Standardized methods and practices for using IT effectively and securely. Importance of IT: Business Operations: IT is essential for day-to-day operations in businesses, enabling everything from communication and collaboration to data management and transaction processing. Healthcare: IT systems are used to manage patient records, support telemedicine, and enhance diagnostic tools. Education: IT provides platforms for e-learning, virtual classrooms, and educational resources. Importance of IT Cont…….. Government: IT supports the efficient delivery of public services, e-governance, and data management for public administration. Personal Use: IT impacts our personal lives through social media, online shopping, entertainment, and personal productivity tools. Effects of ICT Home and domestic activities e.g. control of washing machines, refrigerators, phones etc. Social Networking, sites like FB, Whatsup, Twitter, Instagram, snap chat, viber, next-door etc. Education/E-learning, Odel, zoom Shopping /E-Commerce Banking Employment/jobs Impact of ICT on Society ICT has reshaped the world’s economic landscape and workforce dynamics E-commerce has created new opportunities for businesses and consumers alike supporting globalization by enabling transactions and interactions beyond borders Smart cities are improving urban living by leveraging IT and communication Technology to improve transportation, public service and municipal infrastructure Digital literacy has become a necessary skill for every one Environmental effects of ICT have been profound. Data centers and electronics require significant amounts of power. Other impacts of ICT both positive and negative in our daily lives Social relations Information sharing Communication Entertainment Self employment Paperless environment Health literacy Negative Reduced face to face interactions Social disconenect Health problems Cost Job loss Loss of privacy Role of IT Professionals: IT professionals are responsible for designing, implementing, managing, and maintaining IT systems. They ensure that technology is aligned with the goals and needs of organizations and individuals. Roles within IT include system administrators, network engineers, software developers, cybersecurity specialists, and IT support technicians. Future of IT The field of IT is continually evolving with advancements in technology. Emerging trends include cloud computing, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, big data analytics, the Internet of Things (IoT), and blockchain technology. These advancements promise to further transform how information is managed and utilized, driving innovation and efficiency in various domains. A computer Is an electronic device capable of inputting, storing, processing, manipulating/analysing and outputting large sets of data or information. Characteristics of Computers Speed, The computer is a very high speed electronic device capable of handling large tasks in short time. Storage, Computers have a capacity to store a lot of data in a small space. The storage can be on temporary or on permanent basis. Accuracy, In addition to being very fast, computer is also very accurate device. Diligent, A computer can continually work for hours without creating any error. It does not get tired or bored Automation, A computer can automatically perform operations without interfering the user during the operations. Artificial Intelligence Computers are artificially intelligent. They can respond to requests given to them and provide solutions. Versatility, This is with respect to inputs it can accept. a computer can do all computations with not only numbers but also with alphabets, pictures, sound, images captured etc. Reliability, The electronic components in modern computer have very low failure rate. USES OF COMPUTERS Now-a-days computer is playing a main role in everyday life it has become the need of people just like television, telephone or other electronic devices at home. It solves the human problems very quickly as well as accurately. There are several uses of computers: - Word Processing Internet Digital video or audio composition Desktop publishing Computers in Medicine Mathematical Calculations Banks Travel Telecommunications Defence E-Learning Gambling Examinations Computers in Business Certificates ATM machines Marriage News Classmates Robotics - Robots are controlled by software. Washing Machines Microwave Oven Planning and Scheduling Plagiarism Greeting Cards Sports Aeroplanes Weather analysis