Defining ICT and its Significance; Components of Computer Systems; Data, Information, and Knowledge Hierarchy; ICT's Applications Across Sectors; Discussion on ICT's Broader Impact

Introduction to ICT

Geography

Introduction to ICT

Exploring ICT's fundamentals and pervasive societal impact.

Agenda

• Defining ICT and its Significance

• Components of Computer Systems

• Data, Information, and Knowledge Hierarchy

• ICT's Applications Across Sectors

• Discussion on ICT's Broader Impact

Introduction to ICT

This course provides a foundational understanding of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and its core principles. We will explore how ICT profoundly impacts diverse fields, from modern libraries to global commerce. Prepare to critically analyze the digital transformation shaping our contemporary society.

Connected infrastructure: ICT's role in global interaction and transformation.

Why ICT Matters?

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is fundamental to modern society, profoundly transforming how we live, work, and interact. It underpins global communication networks and drives innovation across diverse sectors, from education to finance. For instance, the rise of e-commerce platforms like Amazon exemplifies ICT's pervasive impact on global transactions.

Technology connects the world, transforming communication and global transactions.

What is Information Technology?

Information Technology (IT) refers to the use of computers, software, and networks to store, retrieve, transmit, and manipulate data. This broad field enables the efficient management of digital assets, such as a university's online learning platform or a library's digital catalog. Ultimately, IT underpins modern communication, education, and commerce infrastructure.

IT streamlines office workflow and document management for efficiency.

What is ICT?

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) integrates Information Technology (IT) with communication technologies. This encompasses the internet, wireless networks, and mobile phones. For example, using a smartphone to access online library databases combines these elements, facilitating information exchange.

ICT: Connecting devices, information, and communication.

Information Technology (IT)

Information and Communication Technology (ICT)

IT primarily encompasses the use of computers, storage, networking, and other physical devices, infrastructure, and processes to create, process, store, secure, and exchange all forms of electronic data. Its core function is managing information efficiently within an organization. For instance, a university's student information system, like Banner or Jenzabar, is a prime example of IT in action, handling student records and academic data.

ICT is a broader term that includes IT but also emphasizes the role of unified communications and the integration of telecommunications (telephone lines and wireless signals) and computers. It encompasses all digital technologies that facilitate the creation, storage, retrieval, and exchange of information. Examples include global internet infrastructure, mobile communication networks like 5G, and collaborative platforms such as Microsoft Teams, enabling widespread digital interaction.

Computer System Components

• Hardware: Physical components (CPU, keyboard, monitor).

• Software: Programs, OS (Windows), applications (Word, Excel).

• Brainware: Human users, programmers, system administrators.

Hardware Essentials

Hardware consists of the physical components of a computer system. This includes input devices (e.g., keyboard, scanner), output devices (e.g., monitor, printer), and processing units like the CPU (e.g., Intel Core i9). Storage components, such as RAM and SSDs, are also essential for data persistence and retrieval.

Computer hardware: components from monitor to mouse.

Software Explained

• Software: Instructions that direct hardware operations.

• System software: Manages computer resources (e.g., Linux kernel, device drivers).

• Application software: Executes specific user tasks (e.g., Microsoft Word, web browsers).

• Essential for all digital system functionality.

Brainware: The User

Brainware represents the indispensable human element within any computer system. This encompasses users, like a librarian accessing a digital catalog, alongside operators managing servers and developers building software. Their expertise ensures technology is effectively utilized and maintained.

Brainware: Human element in systems, enabling cohesion.

Data: Raw Facts

Data are raw, unorganized facts, figures, or symbols lacking inherent meaning in isolation. They are simply observations or records, such as a list of numbers: 25, 180, 72. Without context, these elements provide no insight, serving only as building blocks for information.

Visualizing non-rational roots: raw data as building blocks.

Information: Processed Data

Information is data that has been processed, organized, or structured within a specific context to become useful. For instance, raw library circulation numbers (data) become valuable information when analyzed to reveal the top 10 most borrowed books last month. This transformation makes data actionable for decision-making.

Visualizing data: transforming raw numbers into actionable information.

Knowledge: Applied Information

Knowledge is the understanding derived from processed information, enriched by experience, insight, and judgment. It enables individuals to make informed decisions and solve complex problems. For instance, a librarian uses knowledge of user needs and information resources to recommend specific research databases.

Knowledge: informed decisions, complex problem-solving, librarian example.

Students research, gaining knowledge for informed decisions.

Introduction to ICT

Defining ICT and its Significance; Components of Computer Systems; Data, Information, and Knowledge Hierarchy; ICT's Applications Across Sectors; Discussion on ICT's Broader Impact

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