TEACHER EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
BACHELOR OF SECONDARY EDUCATION
GENERAL EDUCATION 12 – LIVING IN THE IT ERA
LEARNING GUIDE- 1
Comprehensive Discussion on Key Terms in Information
and Communications Technology (ICT)
Introduction
The world has seen an immense transformation with the rapid advancement of
technology. From the earliest computing machines to modern artificial intelligence (AI),
technology has continually evolved, shaping how individuals and businesses interact.
Understanding key terms in computing, information technology (IT), and communications
is crucial for anyone engaged in the digital landscape. This discussion explores various
terms associated with computing, networking, storage, hardware, software, and emerging
trends in ICT.
1. Organizations and Standards in Computing and ICT
1.1 ACM - Association of Computing Machinery
The Association of Computing Machinery (ACM) is one of the leading professional
organizations for computer scientists, researchers, and IT professionals. It focuses on
advancing computing as a science and profession by promoting research, education, and
technological innovation.
1.2 ITU - International Telecommunication Union
The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) is a specialized agency of the
United Nations that is responsible for global telecommunications regulations. It
establishes international standards to improve connectivity and communication
technologies worldwide.
1.3 IDI - ICT Development Index
The ICT Development Index (IDI) is a composite index used to measure the level of ICT
access, usage, and skills in different countries. It helps assess digital inclusion and the
progress of nations in ICT development.
2. Computing Devices and Systems
2.1 ENIAC - Electronic Numeric Integrator and Calculator
The ENIAC was one of the first general-purpose electronic computers, developed in the
1940s. It played a crucial role in early computing history, marking the transition from
mechanical to electronic computing.
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2.2 Personal Computer (PC)
A personal computer (PC) is a small, single-user computing device based on a
microprocessor. PCs come in different forms, such as desktops, laptops, and all-in-one
computers.
2.3 Laptop Computer
A laptop is a portable computer powered by a rechargeable battery. It combines all
essential components (keyboard, display, and processor) into a single, compact device
for ease of mobility.
2.4 Mainframe and Minicomputer
• A mainframe is a powerful, multi-user computer designed to handle vast amounts
of data and support hundreds or thousands of users simultaneously.
• A minicomputer is smaller than a mainframe but still supports multiple users,
typically ranging from 10 to hundreds of users at a time.
2.5 Supercomputer
A supercomputer is the fastest type of computer, capable of performing millions of
instructions per second. These machines are used in scientific research, weather
forecasting, and advanced simulations.
2.6 Workstation
A workstation is a high-performance computer designed for professional use, such as
graphic design, software development, and engineering.
2.7 Smartphone
A smartphone is a mobile device that functions like a minicomputer, providing internet
access, application support, and communication features.
3. Hardware Components and Peripherals
3.1 System Unit
The system unit is the central part of a computer that contains essential electronic
components such as the motherboard, processor, and storage devices.
3.2 Motherboard
The motherboard is the main circuit board in a computer that connects various
components, including the CPU, RAM, and peripheral devices.
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3.3 Input Devices
An input device is any hardware that allows users to enter data or instructions into a
computer. Examples include keyboards, mice, scanners, and microphones.
3.4 Output Devices
An output device displays or transmits processed information to users. Common
examples include monitors, printers, and speakers.
3.5 Storage Devices
Storage devices hold data, instructions, and information for future use. Examples include:
• USB Flash Drive – A portable storage device that offers significant capacity in a
compact form.
• Hard Drives (HDDs & SSDs) – Internal or external storage devices used for data
storage and retrieval.
3.6 Modem
A modem is a device that allows a computer to transmit data over communication lines,
such as telephone or cable networks, to access the internet.
3.7 Port
A port is an endpoint for data communication in a computer system, such as USB ports,
HDMI ports, or Ethernet ports.
4. Software, Artificial Intelligence, and Automation
4.1 Artificial Intelligence (AI)
AI refers to the development of machines or computers that can perform tasks requiring
human-like intelligence. This includes machine learning, natural language processing,
and robotics.
4.2 Automation
Automation is the use of technology to perform tasks without human intervention. It is
commonly used in industries such as manufacturing, logistics, and customer service.
4.3 Intelligent Systems
An intelligent system is an advanced machine that incorporates AI capabilities to learn,
adapt, and make decisions based on data.
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4.4 Big Data
Big data refers to extremely large and complex datasets that require specialized
techniques for storage, analysis, and decision-making.
4.5 Software Piracy
Software piracy is the illegal copying, distribution, or use of software without proper
licensing or authorization.
5. Ethical and Legal Issues in ICT
5.1 Plagiarism
Plagiarism is the act of using someone else's intellectual property, such as ideas or written
works, without proper attribution.
5.2 Libel
Libel refers to the publication of false statements that damage a person's reputation,
which is a serious legal offense in many jurisdictions.
6. Media, Trends, and Communication Technology
6.1 Media and Communication Devices
The term media refers to communication tools and platforms used for information
exchange. This includes social media, television, radio, and online news portals.
6.2 ICT and Modern Communication
Technology has revolutionized communication, making it faster and more efficient through
devices like smartphones, computers, and internet-based messaging applications.
6.3 Trends in ICT
A trend in ICT refers to the emergence of new technologies, devices, or applications that
gain widespread popularity. Examples include cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and
blockchain.
Prepared by:
Jomarie G. Turtoga
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Information and Communication. Technology:
An overview
4. Societal Integration Level
Technology At this level, ICT becomes deeply embedded in daily societal
operations such as education, healthcare, business, and
presently includes advancements in communication and how
governance. This stage focuses on digital transformation in
information is handled, thus enabling governments, institutions.
organizations, industries, and ordinary individuals to improve •E-learning platforms (e.g., Google Classroom, Coursera)
on their decision- making, business processes, and everyday •E-health systems for patient records and telemedicine
living. •Online banking and digital payment systems
Example: A hospital adopting electronic health records (EHR)
INFORMATION COMMUNICATION AND TECHNOLOGY and telemedicine services to improve patient care.
or ICT was defined in a study conducted by Zuppo (2012) as 5. Innovation Level
"related to technologies that facilitate the transfer of At the top of the hierarchy, ICT is used to develop new
information and various types of electronically mediated technologies, business models, and innovative applications
communication." that transform industries and societies.
•Artificial Intelligence (Al) and machine learning applications
•Blockchain for secure transactions
The Levels of the ICT Hierarchy
•Smart cities with loT-driven infrastructure
1. Infrastructure Level
Example: The development of self-driving cars using Al and
loT technology to enhance transportation efficiency.
At the base of the hierarchy, this level consists of the
fundamental hardware, software, and network systems required
for ICT to function. It includes: Information Technology VS.
•Physical devices (computers, smartphones, routers) Information Communication and
•Networking hardware (fiber optics, satellites, servers) Technology
*Basic software (operating systems, databases)
•Internet connectivity (Wi-Fi, mobile networks)
Example: A rural area being provided with fiber-optic broadband Information Technology (IT) is a subset of ICT. While IT
and mobile network towers to enable digital connectivity. focuses on computers, software, and networking, ICT
includes a broader range of technologies that support
information-related activities.
2. Access Level
Once the infrastructure is in place, individuals and organizations
must have access to these technologies. This level focuses on
Breakdown ICT
the affordability, availability, and usability of ICT resources. Information
•Digital literacy and training programs Communication
•Provision of devices to underprivileged communities
Technology
•Public access points like libraries and internet cafés Example:
Government programs providing free Wi-Fi in schools or public
places to bridge the digital divide INFORMATION in ICT refers to the knowledge
obtained from reading, investigating, study, or
research. Some of the tools transmit information
3. Usage Level
are telephone, television and radio.
After access is ensured, people must know how to
effectively use ICT tools. This involves digital skills, user
engagement, and application in daily activities. COMMUNICATION in ICT
• Learning to use search engines, email, and refers to an act of
word processors transmitting messages. It is a process in which
• Engaging in social media and online communication information is exchanged between individuals
•Using e-commerce platforms through verbal and nonverbal means.
Example: A small business owner learning to use an e-
commerce website like Shopify or Amazon to expand TECHNOLOGY in ICT refers to ways that
their business.
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.
Evolution of Technology
The concept of technology always starts with the basic tool. Fourth Generation Computers (1971-Present) -
By combining set of tools, people have produced machines. Microprocessors
Another machine that is considered a necessity is the computer.
TECHNOLOGY The development of the microprocessor (a single-chip CPU) marked
Automation is defined as "the technique of making an the beginning of the fourth generation. This led to the creation of
apparatus, a process, or a system operate automatically." personal computers (PCs), making computing accessible to
Automation includes a broad range of technologies normally connecting individuals and businesses. Intel's 4004 microprocessor (1971) was a
computer systems to other systems, such as sensors, wireless
major breakthrough. Graphical user interfaces (GUIs), networking,
application.
and advanced programming languages also emerged.
Intelligent systems are far more complex and are capable of
learning. This is where the concept of artificial intelligence comes in.
Key Contributions:
History of Computer
Invention of the Microprocessor - Enabled smaller, faster,
First Generation Computers (1940-1956) - Vacuum Tubes
and more affordable computers.
The first generation of computers used vacuum tubes as the
primary electronic component for processing data. These
Rise of Personal Computers - Companies like Apple and
computers were massive, consumed a lot of power, and
Microsoft led the home computer revolution.
generated excessive heat. Examples include the ENIAC
(Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer) and UNIVAC I
(Universal Automatic Computer I). Programming was done
using machine language (binary code), making them slow and
difficult to operate.
Fifth Generation Computers (Present & Future) -
Key contributions: Artificial Intelligence (Al) and Quantum Computing
Invention of Electronic Computers—Marked the shift from
mechanical to digital computing.
The current generation focuses on Al, machine learning,
Used for Military and Scientific Applications— ENIAC was quantum computing, and cloud computing. Computers are
initially built for military calculations. now capable of natural language processing (e.g, Siri,
Alexa). autonomous decision-making, and high-speed
Second Generation Computers (1956-1963) - Transistors
computing using parallel processing.
The second generation replaced vacuum tubes with transistors,
making computers smaller, more reliable, and energy efficient.
They also introduced assembly languages and earty versions of
Key Contributions:
programming languages like COBOL and FORTRAN. These
computers were used in business and scientific fields. Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning - Computers can
now think, learn, and process human language.
Key contributions:
Introduction of Transistors - Increased speed, reduced size, and Quantum Computing - Next frontier for solving complex
lowered power consumption.
problems beyond classical computing
Expansion in Business and Science - More industries adopted
computers for commercial and research purposes.
Third Generation Computers (1964-1971) - Integrated Circuits (ICs)
This generation saw the use of integrated circuits (ICs), which further
increased processing speed and reduced the size of computers. The
introduction of operating systems allowed multiple programs to run
simultaneously. Key examples include IBM 360 series and PDP.
8. -
Key Contributions:
Development of Integrated Circuits - Combined multiple transistors on a single
chip. revolutionizing hardware.
Introduction of Operating Systems - Allowed better resource management and user
interaction.
