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CHAPTER ONE
GENERAL INTRODUCTION

Computer
A computer is an electronic device, operating under the control of instructions stored in its
own memory that can accept data (input), process the data according to specified rules,
produce information (output), and store the information for future use.

Computer science
Computer science is the study of computer and computational systems.
Information is data that has been processed in such a way that it makes meaning to the
receiver.
Communication
Communication is defined as the exchange of information between two or more persons with
one being the sender and the other being the receiver.
Internet
Internet is defined as the global system of interconnected computer networks.
Functionalities of a computer
Any digital computer carries out five functions in gross terms:

Computer Components
Any kind of computers consists of HARDWARE AND SOFTWARE.

Hardware:
Computer hardware is the collection of physical elements that constitutes a computer system.
Computer hardware refers to the physical parts or components of a computer such as the
monitor, mouse, keyboard, computer data storage, hard drive disk (HDD), system unit
(graphic cards, sound cards, memory, motherboard and chips), etc. all of which are physical
objects that can be touched.

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Input Devices
Input device is any peripheral (piece of computer hardware equipment to provide data and
control signals to an information processing system such as a computer or other information
appliance.
Input device Translate data from form that humans understand to one that the computer can
work with. Most common are keyboard and mouse

Example of Input Devices:-

1. Keyboard 2. Mouse (pointing device) 3. Microphone
4. Touch screen 5. Scanner 6. Webcam
7. Touchpads 8. MIDI keyboard 9.
10. Graphics Tablets 11. Cameras 12. Pen Input
13. Video Capture Hardware 14. Microphone 15. Trackballs
16. Barcode reader 17. Digital camera 18. Joystick
19. Gamepad 20. Electronic Whiteboard 21.

Note: The most common use keyboard is the QWERTY keyboard. Generally standard
Keyboard has 104 keys.

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Central Processing Unit (CPU)

A CPU is brain of a computer. It is responsible for all functions and processes. Regarding
computing power, the CPU is the most important element of a computer system.

The CPU is comprised of three main parts:

* Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU): Executes all arithmetic and logical operations. Arithmetic
calculations like as addition, subtraction, multiplication and division.
Logical operation like compare numbers, letters, or special characters *
Control Unit (CU): controls and co-ordinates computer components.
1. Read the code for the next instruction to be executed.
2. Increment the program counter so it points to the next instruction.
3. Read whatever data the instruction requires from cells in memory.
4. Provide the necessary data to an ALU or register.
5. If the instruction requires an ALU or specialized hardware to complete, instruct the
hardware to perform the requested operation.
* Registers: Stores the data that is to be executed next, "very fast storage area".

Primary Memory:-
1. RAM: Random Access Memory (RAM) is a memory scheme within the computer system
responsible for storing data on a temporary basis, so that it can be promptly accessed by
the processor as and when needed. It is volatile in nature, which means that data will be
erased once supply to the storage device is turned off. RAM stores data randomly and the
processor accesses these data randomly from the RAM storage. RAM is considered
"random access" because you can access any memory cell directly if you know the row
and column that intersect at that cell.
2. ROM (Read Only Memory): ROM is a permanent form of storage. ROM stays active
regardless of whether power supply to it is turned on or off. ROM devices do not allow
data stored on them to be modified.

Secondary Memory:-
Stores data and programs permanently: its retained after the power is turned off

1. Hard drive (HD): A hard disk is part of a unit, often called a "disk drive," "hard drive," or
"hard disk drive," that store and provides relatively quick access to large amounts of data
on an electromagnetically charged surface or set of surfaces.
2. Optical Disk: an optical disc drive (ODD) is a disk drive that uses laser light as part of the
process of reading or writing data to or from optical discs. Some drives can only read from
discs, but recent drives are commonly both readers and recorders, also called burners or
writers. Compact discs, DVDs, and Blu-ray discs are common types of optical media
which can be read and recorded by such drives. Optical drive is the generic name; drives
are usually described as "CD" "DVD", or "Bluray", followed by "drive", "writer", etc.
There are three main types of optical media: CD, DVD, and Blu-ray disc. CDs can store up
to 700 megabytes (MB) of data and DVDs can store up to 8.4 GB of data. Blu-ray discs,
which are the newest type of optical media, can store up to 50 GB of data. This storage
capacity is a clear advantage over the floppy disk storage media (a magnetic media), which
only has a capacity of 1.44 MB.

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3. Flash Disk
A storage module made of flash memory chips. A Flash disks have no mechanical platters or
access arms, but the term "disk" is used because the data are accessed as if they were on a
hard drive. The disk storage structure is emulated.

Output devices
An output device is any piece of computer hardware equipment used to communicate the
results of data processing carried out by an information processing system (such as a
computer) which converts the electronically generated information into human readable form.

Example on Output Devices:

1. Monitor 2. LCD Projection Panels
3. Printers (all types) 4. Computer Output Microfilm (COM)
5. Plotters 6. Speaker(s)
7. Projector

Note Basic types of monitors are:

a.Cathode Ray Tube (CRT).
b. Liquid Crystal Displays (LCD).
c. light-emitting diode (LED).

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Printer types:
1-Laser Printer.
2-Ink Jet Printer.
3-Dot Matrix Printer
Software

Software is a generic term for organized collections of computer data and instructions, often
broken into two major categories: system software that provides the basic nontask-specific
functions of the computer, and application software which is used by users to accomplish
specific tasks.

Software Types

A. System software is responsible for controlling, integrating, and managing the individual
hardware components of a computer system so that other software and the users of the
system see it as a functional unit without having to be concerned with the low-level
details such as transferring data from memory to disk, or rendering text onto a display.
Generally, system software consists of an operating system and some fundamental
utilities such as disk formatters, file managers, display managers, text editors, user
authentication (login) and management tools, and networking and device control
software.

B. Application software is used to accomplish specific tasks other than just running the
computer system. Application software may consist of a single program, such as an
image viewer; a small collection of programs (often called a software package) that work
closely together to accomplish a task, such as a spreadsheet or text processing system; a
larger collection (often called a software suite) of related but independent programs and
packages that have a common user interface or shared data format, such as Microsoft
Office, which consists of closely integrated word processor, spreadsheet, database, etc.;
or a software system, such as a database management system, which is a collection of
fundamental programs that may provide some service to a variety of other independent
applications.
Comparison Application Software and System Software

System Software Application Software

Computer software, or just software is
a
general term primarily used for Application software, also known as an
digitally stored data such as computer application or an "app", is computer
programs and other kinds of software designed to help the user to
information read and written by perform specific tasks.
computers. App comes under computer
software though it has a wide scope
now.

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Example: 1) Opera (Web Browser)

1) Microsoft Windows 2) Microsoft Word (Word Processing)
2) Linux 3) Microsoft Excel (Spreadsheet software)
3) Unix 4) MySQL (Database Software)
4) Mac OSX 5) Microsoft PowerPoint (Presentation
5) DOS Software)
6) Adobe Photoshop (Graphics Software)
Interaction:Generally, users do not interact with Users always interact with application
system software as it works in the software while doing different activities.
background.
Dependency: System software can run independently Application software cannot run without
of the application software. the presence of the system software.

Unit of Measurements

Storage measurements: The basic unit used in computer data storage is called a bit (binary
digit). Computers use these little bits, which are composed of ones and zeros, to
do things and talk to other computers. All your files, for instance, are kept in the
computer as binary files and translated into words and pictures by the software
(which is also ones and zeros). This two number system, is called a “binary
number system” since it has only two numbers in it. The decimal number system
in contrast has ten unique digits, zero through nine.
Computer Storage units

Bit BIT 0 or 1
Kilobyte KB 1024 bytes
Megabyte MB 1024 kilobytes
Gigabyte GB 1024 megabytes
Terabyte TB 1024 gigabytes
Size example

• 1 bit - answer to an yes/no question

• 1 byte - a number from 0 to 255.
• 90 bytes: enough to store a typical line of text from a book.
• 4 KB: about one page of text.
• 120 KB: the text of a typical pocket book.
• 3 MB - a three minute song (128k bitrate)
• 650-900 MB - an CD-ROM

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• 1 GB -114 minutes of uncompressed CD-quality audio at 1.4 Mbit/s • 8-16 GB - size of a

normal flash drive

Speed measurement: The speed of Central Processing Unit (CPU) is measured by Hertz
(Hz), which represent a CPU cycle. The speed of CPU is known as Computer Speed.
CPU SPEED MEASURES
1 hertz or Hz 1 cycle per second
1 MHz 1 million cycles per second or 1000 Hz
1 GHz 1 billion cycles per second or 1000 MHz

Computers classification

Computers can be generally classified by size and power as follows, though there is
Considerable overlap:

• Personal computer: A small, single-user computer based on a microprocessor. In addition

to the microprocessor, a personal computer has a keyboard for entering data, a monitor for
displaying information, and a storage device for saving data.

• Workstation: A powerful, single-user computer. A workstation is like a personal

computer, but it has a more powerful microprocessor and a higher-quality monitor.

• Minicomputer: A multi-user computer capable of supporting from 10 to hundreds of users

simultaneously.

• Mainframe: A powerful multi-user computer capable of supporting many hundreds or

thousands of users simultaneously.

• Supercomputer: An extremely fast computer that can perform hundreds of millions of

instructions per second.

Laptop and Smartphone Computers

LAPTOP: A laptop is a battery or AC-powered personal computer that can be easily carried
and used in a variety of locations. Many laptops are designed to have all of the
functionality of a desktop computer, which means they can generally run the
same software and open the same types of files. However, some laptops, such as
netbooks, sacrifice some functionality in order to be even more portable.

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Netbook: A netbook is a type of laptop that is designed to be even more portable. Netbooks
are often cheaper than laptops or desktops. They are generally less powerful than
other types of computers, but they provide enough power for email and internet
access, which is where the name "netbook" comes from.
Mobile Device: A mobile device is basically any handheld computer. It is designed to be
extremely portable, often fitting in the palm of your hand or in your pocket. Some
mobile devices are more powerful, and they allow you to do many of

The same things you can do with a desktop or laptop computer. These include tablet
computers, e-readers, and smartphones.

Tablet Computers: Like laptops, tablet computers are designed to be portable. However, they
provide a very different computing experience. The most obvious difference is that
tablet computers don't have keyboards or touchpads. Instead, the entire screen is
touch-sensitive, allowing you to type on a virtual keyboard and use your finger as a
mouse pointer. Tablet computers are mostly designed for consuming media, and
they are optimized for tasks like web browsing, watching videos, reading e-books,
and playing games. For many people, a "regular" computer like a desktop or laptop
is still needed in order to use some programs. However, the convenience of a tablet
computer means that it may be ideal as a second computer.

Smartphones: A smartphone is a powerful mobile phone that is designed to run a variety of

applications in addition to phone service. They are basically small tablet
computers, and they can be used for web browsing, watching videos, reading e-
books, playing games and more.

Data, Information and Knowledge

Data: Facts and figures which relay something specific, but which are not organized in any
way and which provide no further information regarding patterns, context, etc. So data means
"unstructured facts and figures that have the least impact on the typical manager."

Information: For data to become information, it must be contextualized, categorized,

calculated and condensed. Information thus paints a bigger picture; it is data with relevance
and purpose. It may convey a trend in the environment, or perhaps indicate a pattern of sales
for a given period of time. Essentially information is found "in answers to questions that
begin with such words as who, what, where, when, and how many".

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Knowledge: Knowledge is closely linked to doing and implies know-how and understanding.
The knowledge possessed by each individual is a product of his experience, and encompasses
the norms by which he evaluates new inputs from his surroundings.

Characteristics of Computer
Speed, accuracy, diligence, storage capability and versatility are some of the key
characteristics of a computer. A brief overview of these characteristics are

• Speed: The computer can process data very fast, at the rate of millions of instructions per
second. Some calculations that would have taken hours and days to complete otherwise,
can be completed in a few seconds using the computer. For example, calculation and
generation of salary slips of thousands of employees of an organization, weather
forecasting that requires analysis of a large amount of data related to temperature, pressure
and humidity of various places, etc.

• Accuracy: Computer provides a high degree of accuracy. For example, the computer can
accurately give the result of division of any two numbers up to 10 decimal places.

• Diligence: When used for a longer period of time, the computer does not get tired or
fatigued. It can perform long and complex calculations with the same speed and accuracy
from the start till the end.

• Storage Capability: Large volumes of data and information can be stored in the computer
and also retrieved whenever required. A limited amount of data can be stored, temporarily,
in the primary memory. Secondary storage devices like floppy disk and compact disk can
store a large amount of data permanently.

• Versatility: Computer is versatile in nature. It can perform different types of tasks with the
same ease. At one moment you can use the computer to prepare a letter document and in
the next moment you may play music or print a document. Computers have several
limitations too. Computer can only perform tasks that it has been programmed to do.

Computer cannot do any work without instructions from the user. It executes instructions as
specified by the user and does not take its own decisions.
Computer Viruses

Viruses: A virus is a small piece of software that piggybacks on real programs. For example,
a virus might attach itself to a program such as a spreadsheet program. Each time the
spreadsheet program runs, the virus runs, too, and it has the chance to reproduce (by
attaching to other programs) or wreak havoc.
•E-mail viruses: An e-mail virus travels as an attachment to e-mail messages, and usually
replicates itself by automatically mailing itself to dozens of people in the victim's
e-mail address book. Some e-mail viruses don't even require a double-click --
they launch when you view the infected message in the preview pane of your e-
mail software

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•Trojan horses: A Trojan horse is simply a computer program. The program claims to do one
thing (it may claim to be a game) but instead does damage when you run it (it
may erase your hard disk). Trojan horses have no way to replicate automatically.
•Worms: A worm is a small piece of software that uses computer networks and security holes
to replicate itself. A copy of the worm scans the network for another machine that
has a specific security hole. It copies itself to the new machine using the security
hole, and then starts replicating from there, as well.
Some tips to avoid viruses and lessen their impact
• Install anti-virus software from a reputable vendor. Update it and use it regularly.
• In addition to scanning for viruses on a regular basis, install an "on access" scanner
(included in most anti-virus software packages) and configure it to start each time you
start up your computer. This will protect your system by checking for viruses each
time you run an executable file.
• Use a virus scan before you open any new programs or files that may contain
executable code. This includes packaged software that you buy from the store as well
as any program you might download from the Internet.
• If you are a member of an online community or chat room, be very careful about
accepting files or clicking links that you find or that people send you within the
community.
• Make sure you back up your data (documents, bookmark files, important email
messages, etc.) on disc so that in the event of a virus infection, you do not lose
valuable work.
Installation and configuration of computer peripherals:
computer peripheral devices are those devices which are connected to the
computer and it helps the computer to function. They contain both input and
output peripheral devices. Input peripheral devices are those we use to give
command to the computer while the output devices help computer displaying
the result to the user. So it is important to have a clue on how to install and
configure some of these peripherals as seen below:
Input devices:
1- Mouse: a mouse is usually plugged in with the USB connection. It would
be connected through the PS/2 port. The installation of a mouse is easy.
Ones connected drivers would be searched by windows itself.
2- Keyboard: the keyboard is connected through the USB at the back or
corners of the laptop.
3- Scanner: scanners are connected to the CPU using a port and cable to be
able to operate.
4- Microphone: some microphones are built in but some are external which
can be equally connected through cables and ports to the computer. They
have specific drivers and their configuration can be done through the
control panel.

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5- Digital cameras. Most often digital cameras share information with the
computer. To do this there is need for the drivers to get installed and that
driver comes with the accessories.
Output devices
1- Printers: printers are of various types and the laser printer is the common
one. For printers need appropriate drivers to work. The configuration of a
printer can be done manually once it is connected to the computer.
2- Speakers: the laptop contains the right left speakers which are located on
both sides. External speakers can be plugged into the computer.
3- Projector: A projector can be connected to the computer using the VGA
(video graphic Array) cable that contains 15 pins with 5 each at a row.
CHAPTER TWO (2)
FUNCTIONING OF AN OPERATING SYSTEM

I) Definition of concepts: operating system, resource, file, folder,

directory, memory, file system, icon
a) Operating system: an operating system is a type of software that
coordinates and manages the functioning of other computer software and
hardware. An example of an operating system is windows
b) File: a file is an organised collection of data that is stored as a single
item. This data can be a text, picture, video or program. Each file has a
name that identifies it. A name is usually followed by a period and three
letters in most cases, the program used automatically adds the period and
three letters which is called the extension.
c) Folders: a folder is an item that can hold one or more different files. A
folder can also contain one or more folders called subfolders. Like files
folders have their names are often represented in modern operating
systems by an icon. Memory: it is that part of the computer in which data
or program instructions can be stored for retrieval. The basic unit of a
memory is a byte which is made up of 8bits. Information stored in a
computer is therefore usually measured in bytes, kilo bytes, megabytes
and terabyte. Eg8bits=1byte, 1000bytes= 1kb, 1000KB, 1000KB =1MB,
1000MB= 1GB, 1000GB =1TB.
d) File system: it is seen as the way files are organised on the disk. Also
seen as the partitioning the disk that is used to store the files.
e) Icon: an icon is a graphic representation on a screen of a computer or
window.

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f) A directory: it is a file system cataloguing structure which bears

references to other computer files or other directories.
The importance/ functions of an operating system
- File management: it creates, moves and copy and merges files and
deletes files on the hard disk or other auxiliary storage.
- Device management: it instructs the computer to use different devices:
keyboard, display printer, external communication parts.
- Running application: holds up packages such as MS excel or MS word
so that the computer user can easily interact with them directly.
- Memory management: it controls the flow of data and instructions in
and out of the main memory.
- Processor management: it schedules the activities of the CPU to avoid
deadlock.
- Provision of user interface: it provides the tools for communication
between the computer and the computer user.
- Error handling : it detects and corrects errors within the computer
system.
- It provides system security
- Installing and managing other programs
Types of operating system
The various types of operating systems include : MS Windows, MS DOS ( disk
operating system), UNIX (for mini computers) LINUX( for personal computers)
Apple Mac OS used mainly for Apple computers, chrome operating system,
solaris used for managing large data bases, Ubuntu etc.
Microsoft Windows:
This is the most widely used operating system by most computers today.it is
popular because it is easy to be learned and use. It is provided by the company
Microsoft. It provides a graphical user interface (GUI)
Windows environment/features
This is the collective name for all the elements that MS windows provides to
allow communication between user and the computer. These elements include:
the desktop, the taskbar, the start button, the pointer, icons, menus, windows
and dialogue boxes.
a) Windows desktop: it is the home screen of our computer on which are
found functional tools. it usually has the following icons: my computer,
my documents, network places, recycle bin, etc

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b) Taskbar: this is a horizontal thin bar at the button of the computer screen
containing the start button. It contains the start button, and icons which
contains all applications which are currently running.
c) Start button: this is found at the left end of task bar in windows
operating system. It allows users to open menus and start application
programs
d) Menu bar: it is a vertical bar below title bar used for formatting and
editing documents etc.
Management of user sessions:
A user session is referred to as an encounter between the computer user and
application or the computer in general. There exist a desk top user session
management and a browser user session management.
Sessions management is therefore the keeping of records a user or users
activities across various sessions. Eg a single session may record a series of
activities such as downloads, multiple display of pages etc
a) Desk top session management: here we use a desktop session manager.
A desk top session manager is a program that can save and restore desk
top sessions. The desk top session is all the windows that are currently
running and their content.
Session management on LINUX based system is provided by x-session
manager.
On Microsoft windows system, session management is provided by the session
manager subsystem
b) Browser session management: session management is particularly
useful in a browse r where a user can save all open pages and settings and
restore them at a later date. Google chrome, internet explorer, maxilla
Firefox etc are all browsers that provide user management sessions.

Management of files and folders

File and folder management is organising and keeping track of files and folders,
helping you to stay organised so that information can easily be located or
accessed. Windows help us mange folders in the following way:
- Windows allows you to organise files and folders in a file hierarchy.
Most recent and most important documents are stored at the top for easy
access.

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- Windows helps us partition or sort files and folders by providing us with

a library of four eg : document, pictures, videos and music
- Create appropriate files and folders with appropriate names for easy
recall.
- Ensure to save files in folders to create enough space on the desk top.
- Share files and folders with other computers to ensure backups in case of
accident.
- Files and folders should be frequently be scanned to avoid damages
- Compress files and folders
- Create and rename files and folders.
Components of an operating system
There exist many components of an operating system, below are a few of such
components
1- Process management. Process her means program in execution. There
are many processes such as applications going on at the same time.
Process manage helps ensure each process has it place. Eg process
suspension and resumption
2- My computer; it is used to navigate the windows file system but also
used access hardware and other administrative tools.
3- My network places: if connected to a network of computers it gains
access to resource with the network.
4- Taskbar: the task bar provides a visual status of what is running on the
pc at a particular time. All opened documents or applications on the
computer are displayed on the task bar etc
The block diagram of a computer .

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NB describe the functions of ALU, Control Unit, CPU, main memory,

secondary or auxiliary storage.
CHAPTER THREE (3)
KNOWLEDGE OF A COMPUTER OR DIGITAL ENVIRONMENT
a) information system components
An information system is an organised system for collection, organisation,
storage and communication of information.
It is specifically the study of the complementary networks that people and
organisations use to collect, file, and process, create and distribute data.

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It can also be seen as a group of components that interact to produce

information
The information system components include:
1- Hardware: this category refers to the computer itself which is often
referred to as the central processing unit (CPU) and all of the support
equipment like the input, output devices, storage devices and
communication devices.
2- Software: this term refers to computer programs and the material that
support them.
3- Data (databases): data are usually stored in the computer disk or tape
and made available when computer needs them.
4- Procedures: procedures deals with how we collect data and how we move
it from one computer to the next.
5- People (users): every system needs people if it is to be useful. The most
considered element that influences systems are people which help
systems successful in harnessing information.
6- Feedback: the information system needs feedback to determine if it is
functioning properly.
NB: What is the difference between data and information?
- Data is unprocessed facts and unstructured while information is processed
facts and structured
- Data is unfinished and is input whereas information is finished and is
output.
- Does not add directly to knowledge and adds directly to knowledge.
b) The roles of the components of an information system
The general role of an information system is to take data and turn it into
information and then transform that into useful knowledge.
Specific functions of the components of an information system:
- Hardware components: the hardware components is further divided
into many parts
*the motherboard which is the mainframe that houses the CPU,
*fans for lowering the temperatures,
*internal buses for connection to various internal components

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*power supply helps to run the rest of the computer

*removable media devices: CD-compact disk, CD-ROM device used for
reading data on CD, DVD- digital video DISK
*internal storage – keeps data
- Networking – connects to internet and other computers
- Input devises eg – keyboard for typing, mouse for pointing etc
- Output devices – speakers, printers, monitor (see chapter one for
functions)
The software components: there are three basic types of software:
application software, drivers and operating system software.
*application software are used to perform a specific task eg using excel
program to calculate student marks.
*operating system is a software that helps other computer programs to
function.
*drivers: they help the operating system and the application software to do
their, but they don’t interact with the user but rather interact with computer
hardware elements.
Data bases- it stores information
-it helps in accessing data
- controls the information that is entered
-it handles data and helps in data recovery when it is lost
Network _ increases the access of multiple users, backup data, reduce the
pressure of work on one computer
Human resources and procedures: key in information, write programs etc

c) Identification and use of storage devices:

Storage devices are used to store data and instructions permanently. Storage
devices can be classified as follows:

- Secondary storage
- Backing storage

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- External storage
- Auxiliary storage devices

Example of storage devices include: hard disk, CD, DVD, ETC

Why do we use secondary storage devices?

Primary memory (RAM) is volatile and temporary. When computer is

switched off, all data in the RAM is erased. Storage devices can store larger
amount of information whereas primary memory has less capacity to storing
data.

Three main types of storage devices include:

1- Magnetic tape : it is the oldest type, made of plastic coated with

magnetic material ( cassets)
2- Magnetic disk : a thin circular metal or plastic disk coated with magnetic
material
3- Optical disk : LASER( light Amplification through emission of
radiation) technology is used to read and write data on optical disk.

Types of optical disks include:

CD- ROM compact disk- read only memory

CD-R= CD recordable

CD-RW=CD Rewritable

DVD-ROM= digital video disk (read only memory)

DVD= DVD Recordable

DVD-RW= DVD rewritable

d) Information Processing And Information Flow

Information is processed data which is useful to the receiver.
Information processing is a sequence of events consisting of input, processing,
storage and output. Information processing is similar to the event that takes
place during data processing.

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The computer receives data and instructions during the input stage of the
information processing cycle. Useful information is obtained when appropriate
instructions are applied to data. To avoid re-entering of information for
processing, computers stores information and this occurs at the storage stage.
This then followed by the output stage where the users get access to already
processed data.
The four phases of information processing cycle
- Input – computer receives data and instructions. This input can be done
using different devices such as keyboards, mouse, scanners, joysticks,
digital data tablets, electronic cash registers.
- Processing: computer applies instructions to data to produce information
(perform operations on the data). This processing is done by the CPU
(central processing unit).
- Storage: saving the information for retrieval. Storage can be done on
external hard disk, pen drives, micro SD Cards, and compact disks.
- Output: computer sends out information to computer users. This
information can be used as it is or for further processing.

Output
Data Processing

Stora
ge
Information processing diagram

Chapter four ICT

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PRODUCTION OF DIGITAL DOCUMENTS/ PROFESSIONAL OFFICE

AUTOMATION
Definition of concepts: production of text document,
Text treatment software; word, excel, power point, publisher, text editor.
Importance and use of each data treatment software.
Document: it is a concept used to describe any file produced by an application.
It include text, graphics, charts and other objects. Formerly, it was referred to
only flies that produced with a word processor because files produced by one
application were not compatible with others applications.
Text document: it is a written, printed or online document that presents or
communicate narrative or tabulated data in the form of an article, letter, report
etc.
Production of text document
It is the creation of a new document. There are several ways to create a new
document:
From file on the menu bar
-click the new …….dialogue box appear
-click blank box
-it is now set for your typing.
Also to create new document, you can ;
double click on the word button or icon on the desktop
or ctrl +N on key board.
Note that if you want to open an existing document you should
Click the open icon and select.
Click file on the menu bar and select open
Press ctrl+O on the key board
Double click on the desktop if found there

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Text treatment software: this refer to data processing software which

generally perform operations on given set of data such as diagrams, reports,
tables eg power point, MS word
It also refers to softwares which manipulate input data within an application
program to obtain desired output as audio/video, graphic, numeric, or text data
file.
Examples of text treatment software
MS word; the importance and use
Word is the short form for Microsoft word
It is a graphical word processing program that users can use to type.
Function; it is used to type and safe documents
It provides templates for the creation of other documents
Importance
It is important because of the following
a) It makes data highly interactive
b) It provides smart arts ( choosing a picture from gallery)
c) Turn data into visual charts ( inter link with excel
d) Mail merge ( sending a bulk of messages to mails)
e) Provides headers and footers
f) Cover page design
g) Spell checks
h) Cut and paste options
i) Insert text ; allows you to insert text anywhere in the document
j) Delete text options
k) Copy and paste option, to avoid waste avoid waste of effort.
l) Graphics; allow you to imbed illustrations and graphics into a document
m) Tables of contents and indexes; it gives room for automatic creation of
tables of contents and indexes.
n) Can be used to create resumes and greeting cards
o) It can be used to prepare letters and letter heads, school assignments
p) Materials created with word look more polished and professional than
hand written
q) Teachers can create lesson plans from a template

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r) Allow pupils with poor pencil skills to use a key board instead.
s) It can be used to create standardized test items.
Excel ; it is a basic spread sheet used in computation by applying
formulae eg adding, mean ( average), multiplications, etc. A spread sheet
is a type of document that stores data in a grid of vertical columns and
horizontal rows or Spread sheet is a name given to a table made of rows
and columns. Rows are typically labelled using numbers( 1,2,3, etc) while
columns are labelled using letters ( A,B,Cetc)
Importance; it is a fundamental spread sheet program used in windows
which many people and organisations use for their record keeping.
Using a spread sheet is more beneficial than using a manual grading
work.
It improves efficiency in school management
Uses;
It is used to calculate marks, averages, ranking
Analyse finances,
Teachers can use excel to create charts giving data a visual display
A spread sheet can be used by teachers to track pupils’ daily temperatures
or help keep accounting records for the school etc
Power point
It is a slide show presentation program currently developed by Microsoft
Use; used for preparing slide show presentation formats
MS publisher; Microsoft publisher is an entry-level desktop publishing
application from Microsoft. It differs from Microsoft word in that the
emphasis is placed on page layout and design rather than text
composition.
Text editors
It is a type of program used for editing plain text files. Such programs are
sometimes known as notepad software following the Microsoft notepad.
Note that; plain file is produced by text editor while document file is
produced by MS word.
- Presentation and publication with computer (PowerPoint
presentation)
Presenting and publishing with computer is done with the use of
presentation programs for example power point.
 A presentation program is a software package used to display
information in the form of slide show

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 Functions of presentation software

a) It has an editor that allows text to be inserted and formatted
b) A method for inserting and manipulating graphics
c) Microsoft PowerPoint enable users to develop virtual slides by
displaying images, videos, text and shapes.
d) It allows users the users to include animated effects to the main
content being presented.
e) PowerPoint also enhances the playing of audio during presentation.

Features or characteristics of power point presentation

 Slide layouts: each page in a power point presentation is called slide.

Slide background colours and graphics
 Backgrounds can be added to individual slides or all slides in the
presentation. Backgrounds for slides can be solid colours, textures or
pictures.
 Design themes in presentation software
 A really nice feature of the design themes, is that you can immediately
see the effect reflected on your slides, before making your decision.
 Add clip art or pictures
 PowerPoint offers different ways to add clip art and pictures to a
presentation.
 Modify slides; all slides and slides layouts in a power point can be
modified to your specification.
 Add, delete and rearrange slides
 Adding animations

The term animation is used to describe the motions that are applied to the
objects not to the slides themselves.

Graphical interface of data processing software

NB; processing in this context has to do with turning data into useful
information that is word document or excel document

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The graphical user interface (GUI) is a type of user interface that allows users to
interact with electronic devices through graphical icons and visual indicators
such as secondary notations instead of text-based user interface, typed
command labels. For example all versions of Microsoft windows use GUI,
which is using icons instead of using texts from key board.

Examples of graphic elements include

- Dialog boxes, icons, menus, scroll bars etc.

Features of data processing software ( word, excel and PowerPoint) and

their functions

- Ribbon: it is a command bar that organises a program’s features into a

series of tabs at the top of a window. It increases discoverability of
features and functions.
- File tab: this is used to open, save or close a document
- Quick access toolbar: it is located at the top left of the ribbon. It contains
commands that are used most often such as redo, undo and save.
- Home tab: this is a default tab in MS word, MS excel , PowerPoint etc
- Title bar: it is located at the top of the S word, MS PowerPoint windows
etc. it displays the title of the currently opened document on your
computer.
- Rulers: rulers are used to change the format of the document that is to
help align text, tables, graphics and other elements of your document.
- Taskbar: it contains the windows start button, status bar, clock, zoom
options etc.
- Status bar: it is used to display icons for all open applications and files.
- Start button: used to open the menu to access all programs on the
computer.
- Scroll bar: there exist to types of scrollbars; the vertical and the
horizontal scroll bar. It is used to scroll up and down, right to the left.

NB: further readings to exploit other features of the different

Microsoft office workspace.

Note that graphical user interface elements are usually accessed through
pointing devices like the mouse, pen.

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Exercise;

Describe the graphical interface of data processing software eg word,

PowerPoint and MS excel.

Figure 1

Description of MS word 2010 windows

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Figure 2

Description of MS excel 2010 windows

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Description of MS PowerPoint 2010 windows

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ICT Chapter five (5)

INTERNET TECHNOLOGY AND NETWORK ETIQUETTES

-Definition of concepts: computer network, internet, search engine, e-mail, Electronic

message system, Navigator/Browser, URL, http, web, www, Web Site, Network etiquette.

The internet is a large worldwide network of computers interconnected from several

individuals, organisation and countries around the world.

It is also defined as the series of interconnected networks allowing communication of data

surrounded by millions of computers worldwide.

WWW stands for worldwide web. It is part of the internet

Website: a set of related web pages located under a single domain name ( a collection of
related web pages.

Search engine; this is a web site that help you fine other web sites which has information
you need.

E-mail; stands for electronic mail. They used in sending electronic messages.

E-mail address; this is a unique name given to a person by the internet service provider to
send and receive e-mails.

Navigators/ browsers; it is an application used to get information and display documents on

the worldwide web. For example; Mozilla Firefox, opera mini, internet explorer, Google
chrome etc.

URL; uniform resource locator. It is an address that shows where a particular page can be
found on the World Wide Web.

Computer network; it is a set of computers connected together for the purpose of sharing
resources. It can also be seen as two or more computers that are connected with one another
for the purpose of communicating data electronically.

The most common resource shared today is the internet. Other shared resources include the
printer or a file server.

http; hypertext transfer protocol . It is the protocol used to transfer data over the internet. It
defines commands and services used for transmitting web data.

Network etiquette: these are the norms that regulate the use of computer. These has to
do with the DOs and the DON’Ts

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Downloading; downloading is transferring files from another computer to your computer

from the internet.

Uses of internet

-companies use the internet for electronic commerce, also called e-commerce, including
advertising, selling, buying, providing customer service

-businesses and institutions use the internet for voice and video conferencing

-the use of e-mail help improve and speed up communication between companies, among co-
workers and school institutions.

- Internet supports distance learning (distance education)

-individuals use the internet for communication, entertainment eg through YouTube,

Facebook apps.

Benefits or importance of the internet

-the internet is easy to use

-the search engines that are available online are fast and powerful

-The internet appeal to different learning styles

-WE can access libraries around the world

-WE can become researchers because of easier access to data.

Some internet services

There exist so many services offered by the internet, which are:

E-mailing,

Online chat,

Worldwide web,

Web radio,

Online radio,

Web phone,

Online marketing,

Online translation eg google translate, etc.

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The creation of an e-mail (creating an account with google)

In creating an e-mail address we should do the following;

1) Launch internet explorer or any other browser

2) Go to www.gmail.cm
3) Click create account
4) The sign up form will appear. Follow the directions by entering the required
information
5) Next, enter your number to verify your account ( here google wants to guarantee your
security, by sending you a text to confirm if it’s really you)
6) You will receive a text message from google with a verification code. Enter the code
to complete your account verification.
7) Next, you will then see a form to enter some of your personal information, like your
name and birthday.
8) Review google’s terms of service and privacy policy, then click I agree.
9) Your account will be created

To sign into google account(gmail account)

1) Go to www.gmail.com
2) Type your user name( e-mail address) and password, then click next

To sign out:

In the top-right corner of the page, locate the circle that has your first initial ( if you have
already selected an avatar image, it will show the image instead). To sign out, click the circle
and select sign out.

 Why do you think it’s necessary to sign out of your e-mail box?
 How do you download an attachment on your e-mail box?
 How do you delete an unwanted message in your box?
 Create a yahoo mail account

Computer ethics or computer etiquettes

Computer etiquettes are set of moral conducts or guidelines or principles set aside to regulate
the use of computers. Computer etiquettes ensures that certain aspects related to people’s
privacy, intimacy, cyber-crimes , use of pervasive sites in the internet should be checked to
ensure high moral standing in society.

The ten commandments of the computer put in place in 1992 by one famous computer
Institute (CEI) are

1) you shall not use the computer to harm other people

2) you shall not interfere with other people’s computer work

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3) you shall not snoop around other people’s files

4) you should not use a computer to steal
5) you should not use the computer to bear false witness
6) you should not copy software which you have not paid
7) you should not use other people’s computer resources without authorisation
8) thou shall not seize other people’s intellectual property
9) think about the social consequences of the program you write
10) Thou shall use the computer in ways that shows consideration and respect.

Legal issues related to the use of computer (computer crimes)

The increasing use of computers and other related devices in our world today has promoted
criminality. There are various ways through which these manifest;

Software privacy

Cyber terrorism; this is where other people use the internet to issue threats to a given set or
group of individuals.

Scamming; this is a situation where others use the internet to dupe others of their money.

Harassment; by using the computer or internet to harass someone either sexually or through
threats.

Hacking; this is a situation where a computer user break into someone’s secret information
unauthorised usually by illegally gaining access to someone’s account. It is also seen as the
act of breaching into a computer or network.

Cracking; this the act of breaking into the computer system with malicious intent.

Drug trafficking; this is an illegal internet practice where people trade in the black-market
over the internet by supplying illegal drugs such as cocaine.

The writing and use of malware, such as viruses,

The practice of plagiarism; this is the practice where a person uses some ones work without
authorisation or citing the work.

Computer security techniques

- Physical security
- Encryption
- Passwords
- Firewalls. It is a network security device that monitors incoming and outgoing traffic
and decides to allow or block specific traffic based on a defined set of security rules
- Backup and recovery
- Copyright laws

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COMPUTER NETWORK

Definition of computer network:

A computer network is a group of two or more interconnected computer systems that helps to
share various resources and files.

You can develop a computer network connection by using either a cable or wireless media.
Every network requires hardware and software that connects computers and tools.

Types of computer networks

The classification of this computer networks is done by size and as wells as their purpose.

The size of a network is determined by the geographic area and number of computers which
are part of their network.

The most common network types are PAN, LAN, WAN and MAN.

PAN= Local Area Network. PAN is a computer network that involves a person. It usually
covers a room space and can help an individual to connect to other digital devices etc. for
example using Bluetooth to connect to other devices.

LAN= Local Area Network. It is a group or set of peripheral devices which are connected in
a limited area such as school, office, laboratory, home etc for the sharing of resources like
files, printers, and other applications.

MAN= Metropolitan Area Network. It is a computer network that covers a whole city or
small region.

WAN= Wide Area Network. It a computer network that is spread across a large
geographical area. WAN can be regarded as interconnection of different LAN networks.
Mostly used by organisations to share data. It is anchored on telephone or radio wave.

Other network types are

WLAN= Wireless Local Area Network

VPN= Virtual Area Network

ICT CAPIEMP 2018 SESSION

I) GENERAL KNOWLEDGE ON ICTs (7mks)
Thanks to the services it offers, internet has become indispensable in the
modernisation of teaching practices

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1) Give two examples of internet services that can contribute to the

preparation of a lesson
2) The following line represents the location of a resource on the internet,
http://www.cnd.fr/archivage/valid/coursdepsychologie.pdf
a) Identify the file type of this resource 1mk
b) Give the meaning of the acronym www contained in this URL 1mk
3) Which software will let you have access to this resource? Give an
example 1.5 mks
4) Give an example of an email address. 1.5mks

II) Use of the ICTs in the teaching/ learning and evaluation processes
(7mks)
1) Complete without recopying, the paragraph below matching each number
with the appropriate expression from the following list:
Hypertext links, digital, software, interactivity, multimedia, information
A ---------learning environment is characterised by the grouping on the same
medium of at least two elements: texts, sound, still image, animated image,
in-----------------form. These elements are accessible via a computer program or
……………..allowing a greater or lesser degree of ……………between the
user and the aforementioned elements. By interactivity, we mean the
possibilities of navigation, hyper navigations (through…………), search for
……………… (Free or guided) and online help.
2) In order to improve the administrative management of his school, the
director of messangmena Government primary school decided to set up a
computer system. He acquired a personal workspace to each of his
collaborators.
a) What is meant by computer system? 1mk
b) How do you name the workspace assigned by each collaborator?
1mk
III) Pedagogic integration of ICTs in the Education system
(6mks)
[….As far as ICT issues are concerned, at the educational level, they are of
great importance. They are true allies of education. They modify the teacher-
student relationship and change the relation to knowledge (Devauchelle,
2012). They allow the development of disciplinary skills but also transversal
skills. Klein (2013) confirms that digitalisation not only enhances the
motivations it induces in the learner, but also has other effects: ‘‘Beyond this

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happy effect, indirect, of psychological order, digital technologies, in their

pedagogical uses, are full-fledged learning tools, profoundly modifying
students’ strategies for learning and teachers for including learning’’ (Klein,
2013 p.8) ….]
‘‘the introduction of ICT in the teaching practices
of French teachers’’ Ghina El Abboud: University of Limoges ( France)
1) Give in four maximum lines how ICTs promote the development of
transversal skills 2mks transversal skills are the skills individuals have
which are relavant to jobs and occupations othere than the ones they
currently have or recently had. According to UNESCO, transversal skills
encompasses six domains which are critical and innovative thinking,
interpersonal skills (team work), intrapersonal skills (self-discipline, self-
motivation)), global citizenship, media and digital
information(communication) and others such
2) ‘‘ICTs change not only the teacher-student pedagogical relationship but
also and above all the students’ strategy for learning, and teachers for
inducing learning.’’
a) An example of practices among teachers using ICT when teaching 1mk
b) A reason that can motivate students to learn.
3) Give two ( 2) obstacles of integrations of ICT in teaching in Cameroon.
CAPIEMP ICT 2017 PAPER
Exercise 1: (5mks)
Knowledge of the hardware and the mastery of educational software are
significant parameters in the use of ICT in education.
1- State two examples of communication tools which can use in teaching or
training activities 1mk
2- State four forms in which the documents or information being able to be
used as teaching course materials and illustrations by the teacher can be
presented. (2mks)
3- Give two (2) advantages and two disadvantages brought by the use of
ICT in education. (2mks)
Exercise 2: (4mks)
Thanks to the services it offers, internet has become essential in the
modernisation of pedagogic practices.
1- Give two examples of services offered by the internet 2mks

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2- The following line presents the localisation of a resource on the internet,

htt://www.cndp.fr/archivage/valid/cours de maths.pdf . you are asked to:
a) Give the file name of this resource 1mk
b) Expand the initials www contained in this URL 1mk
Exercise3: (5mks)
1- What is educational software? (1mk)
2- What is the difference between ICT and ICTE? ( 2mks)
3- Give two advantages of the use of educational software in conduct of
lesson. (2mks)
Exercise 4: 5mks
In your capacity as class MASTER of the class three of the Public school of
Ebamina II, you are called, for the end of the second sequence to conceive the
exams papers, to calculate the averages of the pupils and to draw up the
statistics. For this purpose, a complete computer is put at your disposal.
1) How do you call the softwares which enable you to carry out this work?
1mk
2) To which suitable family respectively belong those which are useful:
a) In typing and formatting the exam papers? 1mk
b) In the optimal calculation of the averages of the marks of pupils? 1mk
3) Give one example for each family of these software 1mk
4) Give the name of two examples of charts which enable you to analyse
and compare the performances of the girls and/or boys pupils 1mk

Presentation……………………………………………………………….(1mk)
5) As a 21st century teacher, integration of ICTs in the teachning/learning
process in inevitable. The usage of terms like simulator, tutorial software,
teaching ICTs, teaching with ICT and teaching through ICTs, interactive
white board is common. Your course mate who does not understand these
terms come to you for help.
a) Define the above concepts 0.5*6= 3mks
b) Give two advantages of interactive white board. 0.5*2=1mk

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