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LIVING IN THE IT ERA

Module 1

I. Title: INTRODUCTION TO INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY

(ICT)
II. Topics:
1. IT versus ICT
2. Evolution of Technology
3. History of Computer
4. Components of Computer
5. Why Computers are powerful
6. Classifying computer
7. Digital age, Information age and computer Age
8. Media in the Digital Age
9. Evolution of media
10. Overview of Current Trends
11. Impact of ICT on Individuals, Organizations and society
12. Ethical issues in ICT

III. Time Frame: 13 hours

IV. Introduction:
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, industries and ordinary individuals
to improve on their decision- making, business processes, and everyday living. The
term information and communication technology or ICT was defined in a study 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 economic sector. These classifications however
contain some degree of commonality.
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,

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online, through voice, or simply through a text message, manifested in 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 purposes.
ICT is ubiquitous and access to it is relatively affordable and somewhat effortless. This
makes the demand much higher as different sectors, industries and organizations now
also incorporate ICT in their daily business processes.
V. Objectives:
At the end of this module, the students should be able to:
1. Define ICT;
2. Trace the evolution of technology, particularly computers;
3. Identify the different parts of the computer system, and categorize the different
computer peripheral;
4. Assess why computers are considered powerful thinking machines; and
5. Explain the role of technology in media and how it affects communication.

VI. Pre-Test: Write the correct answer on the space provided

_____1. It refers to processed information that helps fulfill people's daily tasks.
a. Communication b. Information c. Knowledge d. Technology
_____2. It is a type of an input device that lets you select options from on-screen
menus.
a. Keyboard b. Mouse c. Trackball d. Scanner
_____3. It is referred to as the enclosure composed of the main elements of a
computer used to administer data.
a. Digital camera b. PC c. Storage device d. System unit
_____4. It is like a personal computer but it has a more powerful microprocessor
and a high- quality monitor.
a. Mainframe b. Minicomputer c. Supercomputer d. Workstation
_____5. It's a cable used to transmit audio/video data with much clearer image
quality.
a. Ethernet cable b. VGA c. HDMI d. PS/2

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VII. Learning Activities:

1. IT versus ICT
When are we going to use the term ICT and how does it differ from IT? So,
Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is more often used in general sense,
and is described as using computers and other digital technologies to assist individuals
or institutions in handling or using information. ICT involves: information gathering,
processing, storing and presenting data. It also involves collaboration and
communication.
Information Technology (IT) on the other hand is involved with 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.

Breakdown of ICT
I- Information C- Communication T- Technology
Information- refers to the knowledge obtain from reading, investigation, study, or
research. In terms of data, information is regarded as processed data. Processed
information is called knowledge. Knowledge helps fulfill daily task. For 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.
Communication- is an act of transmitting messages. It is a process in which information
is exchanged between individuals through verbal and non-verbal means. With
technology, communication is faster, more convenient and more efficient. When face-to-
face meeting is not possible, long distance communication or virtual communication is
now common and easy with the use of smartphones and computers with internet
access.
Technology- has made communication much easier and faster through telephones, fax
machines, mobile devices, and the internet. It has also made broadcasting of
information, such as news or weather reports, more effective.

2. EVOLUTION OF TECHNOLOGY
The evolution of technology has always depended on one thing: the human
rationale. Human tends to think of ways on how to discharge task or workload, or daily
activities easily. The concept of technology always starts with the basic tool.
By combining a set of tools, people have come up with machines that can do the
task faster and more efficiently. Another type of machine that is considered a necessity

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is the computer. A 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 specified rules, produce results and store the results for future use. Most
machines, including computers, have evolved through the process of automation.
Automation is defined as "the technique of making an apparatus, a process, or a
system operate automatically." Automation includes a broad range of technologies
normally connecting computer systems to other systems such as sensors, wireless
application, expert systems and system integration, among others.
However, an automated system is not the same as an intelligent system.
Intelligent systems are far more complex and are capable of learning. Artificial intelligent
is one of the examples.

3. HISTORY OF COMPUTER
Computers have evolved based on the type of components used in the design.
At present, scientists and researchers have identified five generations based on design,
suitability and reliability. These generations of computer will be defined below (Pepito,
2002).

First-Generation Computer (1946-1959) The first electronic computer was

developed in 1946, designed by J. 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). ENIAC was a 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 subtraction 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

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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 transistor can be replaced entirely with one chip. This chip
made the computers smaller, unfailing and effective. Remote processing, time-sharing
and multiprogramming system were used.
Fourth-Generation Computer (1971-1980) Very large scale integrated (LVSI)
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. The other application of this
microprocessor technology can be used and applied for pocket calculators, TV sets,
automotive devices and audio and video appliances.
Fifth-Generation Computer (1980-onwards) 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 AI,
natural language and expert systems that interpret the means and practices of
producing computers that think like human beings. For more information about the
history of computer, click this link: https://www.livescience.com/-20718-computer-
history.html

4. COMPONENTS OF COMPUTER
Computer is an electronic device that manipulates information or data and has
ability to store, retrieve and process data. It contains both hardware components and
software application.
HARDWARE- pertains to the computer's physical devices: Input devices and output
devices
Input Devices- enter or send data and instructions from user or from another
computer system on the internet
Keyboard- accept letters, numbers and commands from the user
Mouse- lets one select option from on-screen menus
Microphone- allows user to speak into the computer to input data and
instruction

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Scanner- converts printed material such as text and pictures into a form
the computer can use
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- digital video camera that enables users to create a
movie or take still photographs electronically
Output devices- any hardware component that transmits information to one or
more people.
Printer- produces text and graphics on a physical medium such as paper
Monitor- display text, graphics and videos on screen.
Two types of monitor:
1. Cathode ray tube (CRT)- vacuum tube containing an electron
gun at one end and a fluorescent screen at another end
2. Liquid crystal display (LCD)-is 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
3. Light-emitting diode (LED)-a flat-panel display that uses light-
emitting diodes for backlighting Speaker- allows one to hear music,
voice and other sounds
SYSTEM UNIT- is the enclosure composed of the main elements of a computer
that are used to administer data. 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.
STORAGE DEVICE- it is where the data is kept permanently. There are many
types of storage devices which include the flash disk drive, a small portable
storage device often referred to as pen drive, thumb drives, or jump drives. It has
a capacity of 2GB, 4GB, 8GB, 16GB, 32GB, 64GB, 128GB, 1TB and 2TB. Hard
disk drive is a non-volatile memory which permanently stores and retrieves data.
Compact disk is a flat, round and portable metal disk.
Activity 1 (Determine the following devices below by labeling its name)

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5. WHY COMPUTERS ARE POWERFUL?

Computers are powerful for a variety of reasons. They work with remarkable
speed, reliability, consistency, accuracy and communication. 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.

6. CLASSIFYING COMPUTERS
Computers can be classified based on size and computing power. However, as
technology advances, these classifications tend to overlap as modern computer have
become smaller, yet more powerful and relatively cheaper.
The following are the general classification of computers:
1. Personal computer- small, single-user computer based on a
microprocessor
2. Workstation- just like PC but has more powerful microprocessor and a
higher-quality monitor
3. Minicomputer- a multi-user computer capable of supporting 10 to
hundreds of users simultaneously
4. Mainframe- a multi-user computer capable of supporting hundreds or
thousands of users simultaneously
5. Supercomputer- an extremely fast computer that can perform millions of
instructions per second
6. Desktop computers- computers designed to be placed on a desk

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7. Laptop computers- battery-powered computer devices whose portability

makes them possible to use almost anytime, anywhere
8. Tablet computers- hand-held computers with touch-sensitive screen for
typing and navigation
9. Smartphones- hand-held telephones which can do things that
computers can do, including browsing and searching the internet and even
playing console games
10. Wearable- include fitness trackers and smart watches that can be
worn throughout the day
11. Smart TVs- are the latest TV sets that include applications present in
the computers.

7. DIGITAL AGE, INFORMATION AGE AND COMPUTER AGE

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 service sector work in an efficient and
convenient way.
8. 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 (includes social media sites). 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. Example is blog. Cick this link to understand about
blogging: http://www.thebalancesmb.com/blogging-what-is-it-1794405
The Medium- refers to the tool or tools used in sending a message from the
source to the destination. Examples of medium are delivering news on TV or
radio. With the latest technologies, social media is an avenue for information
dissemination.
The Messenger- is the one who delivers the message. This is why broadcasters
for example being the messenger of news are called "media."

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9. 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 Gutenberg started
working on a printing press which used relief printing and molding system.
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 used 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. Films and movies became popular as they catered to larger
audiences.
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.

10. OVERVIEW OF CURRENT TRENDS

A trend refers to something hip or popular at a certain point in time. It can be a
particular style in 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. A few years ago, people would
have a cellular phone, a digital camera, a portable music player, and a laptop with them.
They would use their phones 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
apps made available online. In an article from Forbes.com, DeMers (2016) identified
seven major trends in 2017.
1. IoT and smart home technology- 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 and microcontrollers.
2. 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.
3. Machine learning- also called artificial intelligence, having machines decide for
you seem to be a daunting task and would probably make you think of robots and
talking computers, similar to Iron man's Jarvis.

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4. Automation- through advance technology, it is now possible to automate

previously human-exclusive tasks. This is very much evident through wearable
devices such as step counters and heart rate monitors used by health-conscious
individuals.
5. Big data- is a term that describes large and complex volumes of data. Waze is
an example of an app which uses big data.
6. Physical-digital integration- majority of organization nowadays are moving
towards system automation. The concept of having a "paperless company" in
which transactions, reports and services are done using automated systems is
one such example.
7. Everything in demand- due to the prevalence of network connectivity, it is
possible to have information on demand. Music, movies, and even drivers are
made available through the apps in smartphone.

11. IMPACT OF ICT ON INDIVIDUALS, ORGANIZATIONS 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 EFFECTS
Improved access to education
Access to information and communication
Security

NEGATIVE EFFECTS
Reduced personal interaction and physical activity
Job loss or increase in unemployment
Security especially a threat to security

12. ETHICAL ISSUES IN ICT

1. 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.
2. Exploitation- it is an action in which one deals with a person dishonestly,
unethically and dishonorably, in order to take advantage of the latter's works and
or resources.

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3. Libel- it can either be an insult, slur or slander. Software Piracy refers to an act
of installing or copying software into the computer in the absence of an end-user
licensing agreement (EULA), and/or producing a copy disregarding the
copyrights.

VIII. Self-Evaluation:
True or False. Write T if the statement is true and F if the statement is false.
____1. Laptop is a non-portable device that is battery-powered.
____2. Automation helps human task.
____3. LED means Light-emitting display.
____4. First generation computer has involved into ultra large scale integration
technology.
____5. Output devices send data and instruction from user.

IX. Review of Concepts

With the evolution of technology, people are now living in a period in which the
economy is based on information computerization. This industry that involves
computers, software and networking, among others is called Information Technology
(IT). It is a subset of Information Communications Technology (ICT) which pertains to
the use of technology that supports activities involving not only information such as
gathering, storing, and presenting data, but also collaboration and communication.
The computer, being the main tool or equipment in IT, has evolved in many ways
from the first generation computer to present fifth generation computer.
The power of the computer, coupled with the introduction of the internet, cannot
be underestimated with its speed, reliability and consistency, accuracy and ability to
handle communication.
Communication and information creation and distribution have developed.
Among the major trends is the so-called Internet of things, the expansion and
application of networks and internet to everyday objects.
ICT, however, has both positive and negative impacts on individuals,
organizations and society.

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X. Post-Test:
With the knowledge of what you have acquired in this module, answer the
following questions below
1. What is the relevance of ICT in your chosen course?
2. Create a timeline based on the evolution of computer
3. Construct a narrative analysis on how technology affects media and
communication.
4. Name at least 4 uses of ICT in our daily lives and explain.
5. Give 5 positive impacts and 5 negative impacts of ICT in the society.

XI. References:
Caoili-tayuan.R R., &Eleazar, M V.(2019).Living in the Information Technology
Era. Quezon City: C&E Publishing, Inc.
Riccardo Rialti & Giacomo Marzi (2020) Ambidextrous Organizations In The Big
Data Era: The Role Of Information Systems
Volker Boehme-Neßler (2020) Digitising Democracy: On Reinventing Democracy
In The Digital Era - A Legal, Political And Psychological Perspective
Scott Hawken, Hoon Han, Chris Pettit (2020) Open Cities | Open Data:
Collaborative Cities in the Information Era
Muthu Ramachandran, Zaigham Mahmood (2020) Software Engineering in the
Era of Cloud Computing
Pooja Singh, Rajeev Pratap Singh, Vaibhav Srivastava (2020) Contemporary
Environmental Issues and Challenges in Era of Climate Change
Zimmermann, K. A. (2017) History of Computers: A Brief Timeline. Retrieved
from https://www.livescience.com/-20718-computer-history.html
Duermyer, R. (June 30, 2020). What is blogging? Definition and example of
blogging.Retrieved from http://www.thebalancesmb.com/blogging-what-is-it-
1794405

Prof. ROGELIO Y. BENESISTO

GE E 2 | Living In The IT Era