- Infotech Is Commonplace. Information technology (IT) is a general term that describes any technology that helps to produce, manipulate, store, communicate and/or disseminate information. IT merges computers with high-speed communications links. Two important parts of information technology comprise computers and communications. Computer is a programmable, multiuse machine that processes data into information. Communications technology consists of electromagnetic devices and systems for communicating over distances. Online meansusing a computer or other device to access information and services via a network.
Infotech has given us some now-commonplace technologies: Email refers to messages transmitted over a computer network, a communications system connecting computers. There are guidelines governing the use of emails, which internet users should be aware of, to avoid viruses and other hazards. Major components of cyberspace —the wired and wireless world of communications—are the internet, a network of hundreds of thousands of smaller networks, and its graphical subsection, the World Wide Web, which stores information in multimedia form—text, graphics, sound, video. Phones entering the market can plug into computer chip based sensing devices, and translate data for transmission. Devices include health monitors and automotive diagnostic devices. - The "All-Purpose Machine." Computers are of five types from largest to smallest. (1) Supercomputers —perform 1 trillion calculations per second. These are the most expensive but fastest computers available. (2) Mainframes —for processing millions of calculations, often accessed by a terminal, a display screen, and keyboard, which cannot do its own processing. (3) Workstations —used for scientific, mathematical, engineering, and certain manufacturing applications. (4) Microcomputers —personal computers, which may be desktop PCs, tower PCs, laptops, or personal digital assistants (PDAs); frequently used to connect to a local area network (LAN), which links equipment in an office or a building. (5) Microcontrollers —tiny specialized computers installed in cars and appliances. Servers are central computers holding data and programs for many other computers.
- Understanding Your Computer: You should know three things: (1) The purpose of a computer is to process data (raw facts) into information (summarized data). (2) Hardware consists of machinery and equipment; software instructs the hardware what to do. (3) Computers perform four basic operations: input, putting data into the system; processing, manipulation of data into information; storage, of two types—memory, which temporarily holds data to be processed, and secondary storage, which holds data or information permanently; output, putting out the results of processing. In addition, communication could be considered a fifth operation.
Input hardware includes the keyboard, which converts characters into signals readable by the processor, and the mouse, used to manipulate objects on the display screen.Processing and memory hardware includes the case (system cabinet), which contains: a processor chip with miniature electronic circuits that process information in megahertz, millions of processing cycles per second; and memory chips (RAM chips),which temporarily hold data prior to processing. Both chips are mounted on the motherboard, which contains expansion slots for plugging in additional circuit boards. Secondary storage hardware includes: a floppy-disk drive, which stores data on removable 31?2-inch disks; a Zip-disk drive, which stores data on floppy-disk cartridges with at least 70-170 times the capacity of the standard floppy; a hard-disk drive, which stores data on a non removable disk platter that has much greater capacity than floppies; and a CD/DVD drive, which reads data from optical disks.Output hardware includes: a video card, which converts processor information so it can be displayed as text and images on the monitor; a sound card, which outputs sound to speakers; and a printer, which produces images and text on paper. Communications hardware includes a modem, which sends and receives data over phone lines to and from computers.Software is of two types. System software helps the computer perform essential operating tasks. Application software performs specific tasks for the user, such as word processing. - Where is Infotech Headed? Computer developments have focused on three areas: miniaturization, speed, and affordability. Three developments in communications may be noted: connectivity, the ability to connect with computers via communications lines; interactivity, enabling a user to have a two-way dialogue; and multimedia. The melding of computers and communications has produced three developments: convergence, the combining of several industries through the language of computers; portability; and personalization. One result of these developments is information overload. Three ethical concerns raised by information technology are associated with speed and scale, unpredictability, and complexity.
Information Technology
Definition
Technology that merges computing with high-speed communications links carrying data, sound, and video. Why it's important: Information technology is bringing about the fusion of several important industries dealing with computers, telephones, televisions, and various handheld devices.
Historical Perspective
The Charles Babbage Institute Center for the History of Information Technology is an historical archives and research center located at the University of Minnesota. It offers a wealth of resources on the history of information technology, including a fascinating look at "Hollywood & Computers."
Computer
Definition Programmable, multiuse machine that accepts data—raw facts and figures—and processes (manipulates) it into useful information, such as summaries and totals. Why it's important: Computers greatly speed up problem solving and other tasks, increasing users' productivity. Web Exercise Discuss benefits of computers in schools using this link: http://faculty.uvi.edu/users/rnicholl/benefits.htm. Ask students to discuss some limitations they may have faced while using computers. |  |
Communications
Definition
Electromagnetic devices and systems for communicating over long distances. Why it's important: Communications systems using electronic connections have helped to expand human communication beyond face-to-face meetings.
Web Exercise
The New York Times offers a free archive of all articles published within the last seven days. Use their website to read an article published in their Technology section within the last seven days. Write a paragraph summarizing the contents of this article.
Online
Definition
Using a computer or other information device, connected through a network, to access information and services from another computer or information device. Why it's important: Online communication is widely used by businesses, services, individuals, and educational institutions.
Knowledge in Action
Interview three of your acquaintances about the use of online communications. How do online communications help them perform tasks? How many hours do they spend online? Do they experience problems while performing tasks online? Write a short report summarizing the results of your interviews.
Email
 | Definition Messages transmitted over a computer network, most often the internet. Why it's important: Email has become universal; one of the first things new computer users learn is how to send and receive email. Web Exercises Ask students to visit a web portal such as www.yahoo.com or www.msn.com to register themselves for free email services. They can send emails to their friends as well as understand the concept of attachments, by attaching group photos or other images with their emails. |
Network
Definition Communications system connecting two or more computers. Why it's important: Networks allow users to share applications and data and to use email. The internet is the largest network. Web Exercises Explain how the internet is a big network of computers. Explain client/server networking using the link: http://searchnetworking.techtarget.com/sDefinition/0,,sid7_gci211796,00.html |  |
Cyberspace
Definition
Term used to refer to the online world and the internet in particular but also the whole wired and wireless world of communications in general. Why it's important: More and more human activities take place in cyberspace.
Knowledge in Action
Interview several of your friends and acquaintances to see how they participate in activities occurring in cyberspace. Do they communicate using email? Do they purchase items over the World Wide Web? Do they participate in online chat rooms? See if you can come up with at least ten different activities occurring in cyberspace. Write a paragraph or two summarizing your findings.
Internet
Definition Worldwide network that connects hundreds of thousands of smaller networks. Why it's important: Thanks to the internet, millions of people around the world can share all types of information and services. Web Exercise Discuss how the internet helps to share all types of information and services. Ask students to join an online discussion group at http://groups.google.com/groups?group=comp&hl=en and share information about recent innovations in computers. |  |
World Wide Web
 | Definition The part of the internet that stores information in multimedia form—sounds, photos, and video as well as text. Why it's important: The web is the most widely known part of the internet. Web Exercise Ask students to search options in www.google.com for the areas in which multimedia are used to teach subjects, such as science. |
Multimedia
Definition
Multimedia refers to technology that presents information in more than one medium, including text graphics, animation, video, and sound. Why it's important: Multimedia is used increasingly in business, by professionals, and education to improve the way information is communicated.
Web Exercise
Many sites on the World Wide Web provide visitors with the opportunity to send electronic greeting cards for free. These greeting cards are created using multimedia—graphics, sound, animation, video, and/or text. Visit http://greetings.yahoo.com or another site on the World Wide Web which features multimedia greeting cards. Select a card to send it to one of your acquaintances, or even send it to yourself. Which multimedia technologies were utilized in the creation of the greeting card you selected?
Supercomputer
Definition
High-capacity computer with hundreds of thousands of processors that can perform trillions of calculations per second. It is typically priced from $500,000 to more than $350 million. Why it's important: Supercomputers are used primarily for research purposes, airplane design, oil exploration, weather forecasting, and other activities that cannot be handled by mainframes and other less powerful machines.
Web Exercise
Search the web and come up with a list of at least five manufacturers of supercomputers.
Mainframes
Definition
Water- or air-cooled computers costing $5000–$5 million. Small mainframes are often called midsize computers. Why it's important: Mainframes are used by large organizations (banks, airlines, insurance companies, universities) that need to process millions of transactions.
Knowledge in Action
Your college or university undoubtedly uses one or more mainframes for its data-processing needs. Find out how many of these mainframes exist on your campus, what they are used for, and their manufacturer. Write a paragraph or two summarizing your findings.
Terminal
Definition Input and output device that uses a keyboard for input and a monitor for output; it cannot process data. Why it's important: Terminals are generally used to input data to and receive data from a mainframe computer system for example, in airline reservation systems. Web Exercise Discuss the types of terminals by visiting: http://bsd7.starkhome.cs.sunysb.edu/~samson/HOWTO/html/Text-Terminal-HOWTO/Text-Terminal-HOWTO-2.html |  |
Workstations
Definition
Expensive, powerful computer generally used for complex scientific, mathematical, and engineering calculations and for computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing. Why it's important: The power of workstations is needed for specialized applications too large and complex to be handled by PCs.
Related Industry
Hewlett-Packard, IBM, and Sun Microsystems are three of the leading manufacturers of computer workstations.
Microcomputers
 | Definition Also called personal computer; small computer that fits next to a desk or on a desktop, or can be carried around. Costs $500–$5000. Why it's important: The microcomputer has lessened the reliance on mainframes and has provided more ordinary users with access to computers. It can be used as a stand-alone machine or connected to a network. Web Exercise Discuss safety guidelines with students regarding PC maintenance at http://tutorials.findtutorials.com/read/id/324. |
Desktop PC
Definition
Microcomputer unit whose case sits on a desk with the keyboard in front and the monitor often on top. Desktop PCs and tower PCs are the most commonly used types of microcomputer.
Knowledge in Action
Take yourself on a walking tour of your college library. Create an inventory of all the computers available for student use in the library. Categorize each computer as one of the following: desktop, laptop, tower, or terminal (no processing capability). The last of these—terminal—may still be used for the electronic card catalog. Report your findings to your class.
Tower PC
Definition Microcomputer unit whose case sits as a "tower" often on the floor, freeing up desk space. Web Exercise Discuss the benefits of using the tower PC at http://www.webopedia.com/TERM/T/tower_model.html. Ask students to research this topic and present more tower PC benefits to the class. |  |
Laptop
 | Definition Now more commonly called notebook computer, lightweight portable computer with a built-in monitor, keyboard, hard-disk drive, battery, and adapter; weighs 1.8–9 pounds. Why it's important: Laptops and other small computers have provided users with computing capabilities in the field and on the road. Web Exercise Discuss simple laptop troubleshooting using the website http://www.laptopcomputer.net/. |
Personal Digital Assistant (PDA)
Definition Also known as handheld computer or palmtop; used as a schedule planner and address book and to prepare to-do lists and send email and faxes. Why it's important: PDAs make it easier for people to do business and communicate while traveling. Web Exercise Discuss why PDAs are used and allow students to browse for more information about PDAs at http://www.nd.edu/~dmengel/hct/projects/pda/why/. |  |
Local Area Network (LAN)
Definition
Network that connects, usually by special cable, a group of desktop PCs and other devices, such as printers, in an office or building. Why it's important: LANs have replaced mainframes for many functions and are considerably less expensive.
Web Exercise
Several sites on the World Wide Web are dedicated to providing definitions of a host of computer terms. One such site is Webopedia: Online Dictionary for Computer and Internet Terms. Use this site to look up additional information on LANs.
Microcontroller
Definition
Also called an embedded computer; the smallest category of computer. Why it's important: Microcontrollers are built into "smart" electronic devices, such as appliances and automobiles.
For More Information
Many of the latest "smart appliances" are introduced at the annual Consumer Electronics show. For an overview of what the 2002 CES had to offer, read an article published by pcworld.com, the online version of PC World magazine.
Servers
Definition
Computer in a network that holds collections of data (databases) and programs for connecting PCs, workstations, and other devices, which are called clients.Why it's important: Servers enable many users to share equipment, programs, and data.
Web Exercise
Use the web (search engines such as www.google.com) to research which computer manufacturers market "servers." Try to come up with at least five different server manufacturers.
Data
Definition
Raw facts and figures that are processed into information. Why it's important: Users need data to create useful information.
Career Corner
Use the web to learn more about the plethora of careers involving data. Go to a site such as www.hotjobs.com and type "data" into the Search field. How many jobs matched the keyword? Which ones sound most interesting to you? Why? Write a paragraph summarizing your findings.
Information
Definition Data that has been summarized or otherwise manipulated for use in decision making. Why it's important: The whole purpose of a computer (and communications) system is to produce (and transmit) usable information. Web Exercise Discuss about data processing services industry by visiting http://www.bls.gov/oco/cg/cgs033.htm. Ask students to search for job options within this field. |  |
Hardware
Definition
All machinery and equipment in a computer system. Why it's important: Hardware runs under the control of software and is useless without it. However, hardware contains the circuitry that allows processing.
Career Corner
The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) is an association of technical professionals in fields such as computer engineering, biomedical technology, consumer electronics, and aerospace. It has over 350,000 members from 150 different countries. The website for www.IEEE.org contains a large amount of information concerning careers involving hardware.
Software
Definition
Also called programs; step-by-step electronic instructions that tell the computer hardware how to perform a task. Why it's important: Without software, hardware is useless.
Career Corner
The Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) is the world's first educational and scientific computing society. Founded in 1947, the ACM now has over 80,000 members—both computing professionals and students. The ACM maintains a Career Resource Center on its website, which is an invaluable source of information about careers in the software field.
Input
Definition
Whatever is put in ("input") to a computer system. Input devices include the keyboard and the mouse. Why it's important: Useful information cannot be produced without input data.
Knowledge in Action
Visit your college's student computer lab. Make a list of all the different kinds of input devices available for students to use. Is there any missing which you think should be provided?
Processing
Definition
The manipulation the computer does to transform data into information. Why it's important: Processing is the essence of the computer, and the processor is the computer's "brain."
Career Corner
CareerJournal.com is a career site sponsored by the Wall Street Journal. Visit this site to search for jobs in "data processing," another term often used interchangeably with "processing."
Storage
Definition
Part of the computer in which data and programs are stored, either permanently or temporarily.
Related Industry
To learn about the data storage industry, visit the website for the industry's trade association - IDEMA.
Memory
Definition
Also called primary storage RAM; computer circuitry that temporarily holds data waiting to be processed. Why it's important: By holding data, memory enables the processor to process.
Knowledge in Action
Determine how much memory is installed in the computer you use.
Secondary Storage
Definition
Devices and media that store data and programs permanently—such as disk drives, tape drives, and CDs and DVD drives. Why it's important: Without secondary storage, users would not be able to save their work. Storage also holds the computer's software.
Knowledge in Action
Determine how much secondary storage exists in all the secondary storage devices of the computer you use.
Output
Definition
Whatever is output from ("put out of") the computer system; the results of processing. Why it's important: People use output to help them make decisions. Without output devices, computer users would not be able to view or use the results of processing.
Knowledge in Action
Visit your college's student computer lab. Make a list of all the different kinds of output devices available for students to use. Is there any missing that you think should be provided?
Keyboard
Definition
Input device that converts letters, numbers, and other characters into electrical signals readable by the processor. Why it's important: Keyboards are the most common kind of input device.
For More Information
Most keyboards were designed with a right-handed computer user in mind. However, approximately 10% of the population is left-handed. Some manufacturers produce keyboards especially for the left-handed computer user. One website that offers such keyboards for sale is thelefthand.com. Note the differences in the left-hand keyboard pictured on their site. The numeric pad has been moved from its normal position on the right-hand side of the keyboard to the left-hand side. Similarly, the arrow keys along with the help, home, page up, page down, etc., keys that are normally adjacent to the numeric pad have been moved to the left-hand side of the keyboard. These two changes would allow a left-handed user to do frequent operations such as numeric data-entry and up/down, left/right movements on the screen with his or her dominant hand—the left one.
Mouse
Definition
Input device used to manipulate objects viewed on the computer display screen. Why it's important: For many purposes, a mouse is easier to use than a keyboard for inputting commands. Also, the mouse is used extensively in many graphics programs.
For More Information
A computer mouse may provide one, two, or three buttons, depending on which system software it is to be used with. Most use two buttons since that is the number needed for working with the popular Microsoft Windows operating system.
Case (System Cabinet)
Definition
Also known as the system unit or system cabinet; the box that houses the processor chip (CPU), the memory chips, and the motherboard with power supply, as well as storage devices—floppy-disk drive, hard-disk drive, and CD or DVD drive. Why it's important: The case protects many important processing and storage components.
For More Information
The popular iMac microcomputer manufactured by Apple Computer does not have a case separate from its monitor. Instead, the monitor, CPU, memory chips, motherboard, power supply, hard-disk drive, and CD or DVD drive are all contained in one compact unit.
Chip
Definition
Tiny piece of silicon that contains millions of miniature electronic circuits used to process data. Why it's important: Chips have made possible the development of small computers.
Web Exercise
Fred Terman is considered the "father" of Silicon Valley—that part of California stretching from San Jose to San Francisco, and that features a high concentration of high-technology companies. Use the web to research the life of Fred Terman, focusing on why he has come to be associated so closely with Silicon Valley. Write a one-page biographical sketch of Terman and present it to your class.
Memory Chips (RAM Chips)
Definition Random access memory; provides primary storage or temporary storage. Why it's important: Temporarily holds data before processing and information after processing, before it is sent along to an output or storage device. |  |
Web Exercise Discuss how memory requirements for a PC can be decided by visiting http://www.extremetech.com/article2/0,3973,34539,00.asp. | |
Motherboard
Definition
Main circuit board in the computer. Why it's important: This is the big green circuit board to which everything else—such as the keyboard, mouse, and printer—is connected. The processor chip, memory chips, ROM chips, and other circuitry is mounted on the motherboard.
Knowledge in Action
Research the etymology (origins) of the word "motherboard." Are there other similar terms in use, such as "fatherboard," "daughterboard," and "sonboard?" When was the term "motherboard" first used? Is a particular individual credited with having coined the word? Write a short paragraph on your findings.
Expansion Slots
 | Definition Internal "plugs" used to expand the PC's capabilities. Why it's important: Expansion slots give you places to plug in additional circuit boards, such as those for video, sound, and communications (modem). Web Exercise Discuss expansion slots at http://web.ukonline.co.uk/b.gardner/mapinfo/expansionslots.html. |
Floppy-Disk Drive
Definition
Storage device that stores data on removable 3.5-inch-diameter flexible diskettes encased in hard plastic. Why it's important: Floppy-disk drives are included on almost all microcomputers and make many types of files easily portable.
For More Information
In 1998, Apple Computer introduced a brand new microcomputer named the iMac. Its colorful plastic exterior was hailed as a major design innovation. More controversial was Apple's decision to not include a floppy-disk drive in the iMac. As a result, many iMac owners have resorted to purchasing external floppy-disk drives or making major modifications to permit an internal floppy-disk drive to be installed.
Zip-Disk Drive
Definition
Storage device that stores data on removable floppy-disk cartridges with at least 70 - 170 times the capacity of the standard floppy. Why it's important: A Zip drive is a removable storage device that securely stores all the important computer data magnetically. They are durable, portable, easy-to-use, and extremely efficient. One Zip 250 MB disk can store the same amount of data as 173 floppy disks.
For More Information
In 1994 Iomega introduced its first Zip drive with its removable 100 MB cartridge-like disks.
Hard-Disk Drive
Definition
Storage device that stores billions of characters of data on a non removable disk platter inside the computer case. Why it's important: Hard disks hold much more data than diskettes (floppies) do. Nearly all microcomputers use hard disks as their principal secondary-storage medium.
Knowledge in Action
Determine how much total hard-disk storage capacity your computer has. Explain the method in which to learn how much of that capacity is already in use.
CD Drive
Definition
Storage device that uses laser technology to read data from optical disks. Why it's important: New software is generally supplied on CDs rather than diskettes. And even if you can get a program on floppies, you'll find it easier to install a new program from one CD rather than repeatedly inserting and removing many diskettes. The newest version is called DVD (digital video disk). The DVD format stores even more data than the CD format.
Related Industry
Many people who have to travel often for work like to take along their notebook computers so that they can make good use of their time while flying in an airplane, waiting at airports, etc. The advent of DVD players in notebooks made this an even more attractive alternative, as travelers could carry along a DVD movie for their own personal entertainment. More and more desktop and tower microcomputers are beginning to feature DVD players as well, which further blurs the distinction between a computer and a television. One company that has taken advantage of this increase in computer-based DVD players (accompanied by a similar increase in home-entertainment DVD players) is netflix.com. This web-based business is an online substitute for a video rental store. Netflix members pay a fixed amount per month for as many movie DVDs as they can order, watch, and return (in prepaid mailing envelopes) to the company.
Video Card
Definition
Circuit board that converts the processor's output information into a video signal for transmission through a cable to the monitor. Why it's important: Virtually all computer users need to be able to view video output on the monitor.
For More Information
Video cards are also called "graphics cards." Many computer users, particularly game enthusiasts, often find themselves in need of upgrading to a better video card. PC Magazine is one source of product guides for components such as video cards.
Monitor
Definition
Display device that takes the electrical signals from the video card and forms an image using points of colored light on the screen. Why it's important: Monitors enable users to view output without printing it out.
For More Information
People who must sit for lengthy periods of time in front of computer monitors are subject to a range of visual problems. To learn how to prevent such problems, see the Typing Injury FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions).
Sound Card
Definition
Special circuit board that enhances the computer's sound-generating capabilities by allowing sound to be output through speakers. Why it's important: Sound is used in multimedia applications. Also, many users like to listen to music CDs on their computers.
For More Information
Sound cards are also called "audio cards." Many computer users, particularly game enthusiasts, often find themselves in need of upgrading to a better sound card. PC Magazine is one source of product guides for components such as audio cards.
Speakers
Definition
Devices that play sounds transmitted as electrical signals from the sound card.Speakers are connected to a single wire plugged into the back of the computer. Why it's important: Sound is used in multimedia applications. Also, many users like to listen to music CDs on their computers.
For More Information
Most microcomputers come with built-in speakers. However, many music enthusiasts want to upgrade to higher-quality external speakers. Epinions.com is one source that can be used by those who want to upgrade their computer's speakers. Epinions helps people by offering unbiased advice, personalized recommendations, and comparative shopping information.
Printer
Definition
Output device that produces text and graphics on paper. Why it's important: Printers provide one of the principal forms of computer output.
Knowledge in Action
Investigate the printing resources and policies of your student computer lab. Is a color printer available? Are printouts free? If so, is there a limit on how many pages you're allowed to print? Or is there a rule prohibiting printing anything not directly related to a class you're taking? If you have to pay for copies, how much is the per-page charge? Does the print quality suffice for your coursework needs? Write a paragraph or two summarizing your findings, and present them to your class.
Modem
Definition
Device that sends and receives data over telephone lines to and from computers. Why it's important: A modem enables users to transmit data from one computer to another by using standard telephone lines instead of special communications equipment.
Knowledge in Action
Determine the transmission speed (normally specified in kilobits per second) of the modem inside the computer you use. 56 K modems are the fastest telephone modems available at present.
System Software
Definition
System software helps the computer perform essential operating tasks.Why it's important: Application software cannot run without system software. System software consists of several programs. The most important is the operating system, the master control program that runs the computer. Examples of operating system software for the PC are various Microsoft programs (such as Windows 95, 98, NT, ME, and XP), Unix, Linux, and the Macintosh Operating System.
Web Exercise
Visit one of your college's student computer labs to evaluate how up to date the computers in this lab are with respect to their operating system. First, determine which operating system(s) is being run on the lab's computers. Use the web to ascertain the year that version of the operating system was released by its manufacturer. Then research how many versions (if any) of that operating system have been released at a later date. If the operating system(s) running on the lab computers seems outdated to you, ask the lab personnel when an update is planned. Write up a one-page summary of your findings, and report them to your class.
Application Software
Definition
Software that has been developed to solve a particular problem, perform useful work on general-purpose tasks, or provide entertainment. Why it's important: Application software such as word processing, spreadsheet, database manager, graphics, and communications packages are commonly used tools for increasing people's productivity.
Related Industry
Microsoft Office groups some of the most popular application software packages in existence. It includes four individual applications: Excel—a spreadsheet application, Word—a word-processing application, PowerPoint—a presentation graphics application, and Outlook—an email communications program. In addition to Office, Microsoft also makes several other application software products.
Connectivity
Definition
Ability to connect computers to one another by communications lines, so as to provide online information access. Why it's important: Connectivity is the foundation of the advances in the digital age. It provides online access to countless types of information and services.The connectivity resulting from the expansion of computer networks has made possible email and online shopping, for example.
For More Information
In March 1996, the first National Wiring Event was held in California, where over 50,000 volunteers wired over a third of California's K-12 schools. Since that time, NetDay has become a yearly event in over 40 states, with over half a million volunteers contributing to the effort.
Connectivity of the nation's public schools became a national priority during the last half of the 1990s.
Interactivity
Definition
Two-way communication; a user can respond to information he or she receives and modify the process. Why it's important: Interactive devices allow the user to actively participate in a technological process instead of just reacting to it.
Related Industry
http://cnn.com/ has a feature called "Quick Vote" in which users are asked to give their opinions on a question related to a leading news story. The user can also see a completely up-to-date display of the results from this "Quick Vote." Try out this example of interactivity.
Convergence
Definition
The combining of several industries through various devices that exchange data in the format used by computers. The industries are computers, communications, consumer electronics, entertainment, and mass media. Why it's important: Convergence has led to electronic products that perform multiple functions, such as TVs with internet access or phones with screens displaying text and pictures.
Related Industry
In early 2002, Handspring announced a new produce called the Treo, a convergent device that combines a cellphone with a PDA (personal digital assistant). The Treo product line provides users with an organizer, phone, message, and web services, all in one small handheld device.
Miniaturization
Definition
Process by which computers and processors are made smaller. Old-fashioned vacuum tubes were converted to smaller and more reliable transistors. Integrated circuits are the next development. Why it's important: Miniaturization has led to the microprocessor which can perform calculations that required large computers.
Web Exercise
Discuss how computers and miniaturization are related by visiting http://www.crsonline.net/techarticles/tech_column-37.htm.
Speed
Definition
A benefit provided by development of computer technology; related to the extent of processing done by computers. Why it's important: Computers can perform data processing and complex calculations faster, due to development in speed.
Web Exercise
Discuss the world's fastest computer at http://computer.howstuffworks.com/question54.htm.
Affordability
Definition
Lowering trend of costs incurred while buying computers; with increased development, computers are more affordable. Why it's important: Processors cost a fraction of what they did years ago, providing the same processing power.
Web Exercise
Using a search engine, such as www.google.com, ask students to compare prices of desktop PCs to what the earliest desktop PCs used to cost. A site that contains desktop PC prices is http://www.bizrate.com/buy/browse.xpml?cat_id=461&lp=1&mkt_id=821468&rf=ggl&url_id=7704. Explain how increased technology has caused computers to become more affordable.
Multimedia
Definition
Technology that presents information in more than one medium – such as text, pictures, video, sound, and animation – in a single integrated communication. Why it's important: The development of the World Wide Web included use of multimedia to display pictures, videos, music, and text together.
Web Exercise
Explain the concept of car multimedia with students using the website http://us.st.com/stonline/press/magazine/challeng/3rdedi98/chal07.htm.
Portability
Definition
Further development of computers, resulting in small, powerful, wireless personal electronic devices. Why it's important: Computers have become small enough to be carried around, yet retain processing speed and power.
Web Exercise
Discuss how portable computers are designed by visiting http://www.research.ibm.com/resources/news/20020206_metapad.shtml. Ask students to search the web for further examples of portable computers.
Personalization
Definition
Process of creation of information customized to the user's preferences; programs that automatically retrieve information on designated topics. Why it's important: Companies have started to use customer preferences to design their products. Newsletters are sent by companies to inform their customers of newer and further-developed products.
Web Exercise
Ask students to visit a website containing various newsletters on computers, such as http://www.ezine-dir.com/Computers/ and subscribe to the ones required in class. Explain the ways in which information pertaining to specific requirements can be retrieved.