Introducation to

Computer
 What Is This Module About?

Much of the world today has became an information society. Information society refers to
a group of people such as a city or country, in which information is rapidly created, processed
and shared. This means that information can now be encoded or changed into a form that
machines can “understand”. And it can be processed or analyzed or computed and transmitted
(sent) to others in lesser time. This culture of an information society is made possible by a
wonderful machine called computer.
Do you know what a computer is? Have you seen or used one before? Do you know what
computers can do? Do you know how they help people to do things they could not do? If you
have thought of these questions before, then this module is for you!
In this module, you will learn what a computer is and what it can do. You will learn what
computer systems are and the role that they play in today’s society. Not too long ago, only
computer professionals used computers. Today, computers are for everyone. That includes you!
In only about 15 years, computers have become an important tool in almost any career or
occupation. To become an effective participant in the emerging information society, you need to
know what a computer can do. And you need to know how to use it. In other words, you should
be computer literate. This module aims to help you become one.
It is composed of two lessons.
Lesson 1 — Computers: Machines That Make Work More Efficient
Lesson 2 — The Role of Computers in Today’s Society

What Will You Learn From This Module?

After studying this module, you should be able to:

♦ define computer and computer system;
♦ name the basic parts of a computer;
♦ describe how computers work;
♦ enumerate the properties or characteristics of a computer.
♦ give examples of computer programs; and
♦ enumerate some uses of the computer in today’s society.

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 Let’s See What You Already Know

Before studying this module, take this simple test to determine what you already know about
the topics covered.
A. Encircle the letter of the correct answer.
1. What is a computer?
a. An electronic device capable of interpreting and executing programmed
commands
b. A machine used for counting
c. A device used for making books
d. A machine for teaching how to print.
2. What is not a fundamental component of a computer system?
a. Input
b. Output
c. Data
d. Processing
e. Storage
3. What is computer hardware?
a. The electronic machine/equipment that does the computer’s work
b. Where computers are sold
c. A place where computers are repaired
d. A computer damage
4. What is a computer software?
a. A device for cleaning a computer
b. A covering for a computer
c. A set of programmed commands that a computer interprets and executes
d. A book about how computer work
5. The intelligence of a computer is found in its…
a. Input
b. Output
c. Processor
d. Storage
6. Fuel is to a car, as ________ is to a computer.
a. Processor
b. Storage
c. Data
d. Wires

2
 7. What is a millisecond?
a. One hundredth of a second
b. One thousandth of a second
c. One millionth of a second
d. One billionth of a second
8. What is an e-mail?
a. Electrical mail
b. Electronic mail
c. Emergency mail
d. Early mail
9. What device is traditionally thought of as the first ever computer?
a. Calculator
b. Abacus
c. Steam engine
d. Maps
10. What is a main frame computer?
a. A computer that comes with a frame
b. A small computer
c. A computer that can process information from several computers
d. A new computer
B. Name the parts of a computer found in the illustration below. Write the name on the
blank beside each part.

_________
_________
CPU

_________
_________

_________
_________

_________

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 C. Name the six properties or characteristics of a computer.
1. ______________________________________________________________
2. ______________________________________________________________
3. ______________________________________________________________
4. ______________________________________________________________
5. ______________________________________________________________
6. ______________________________________________________________
D. Name the eight areas in which computers are used.
1. ______________________________________________________________
2. ______________________________________________________________
3. ______________________________________________________________
4. ______________________________________________________________
5. ______________________________________________________________
6. ______________________________________________________________
7. ______________________________________________________________
8. ______________________________________________________________

Well, how was it? Do you think you fared well? Compare your answers with those in the
Answer Key on pages 35–36 to find out.
If all your answers are correct, very good! This shows that you already know much about
the topics in this module. You may still study the module to review what you already know. Who
knows, you might learn a few more new things as well.
If you got a low score, don’t feel bad. This just means that this module is for you. It will help
you understand some important concepts that you can apply in your daily life. If you study this
module carefully, you will learn the answers to all the items in the test and a lot more! Are you
ready?
You may go now to the next page to begin Lesson 1.

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 LESSON 1

Computers: Machines that Make

Work More Efficient
Many years ago, people wrote letters, prepared documents and made computations without
computers. The computer is a product of modern technology. It is a machine that can increase the
speed and efficiency of human activities. Since its introduction in the 1950’s, it has become
smaller and smaller. Advances in technology have led to its miniaturization or decrease in size.
Computers that used to be very big have been transformed into personal computers or PCs
that a lot of people now use. The Philippines has already joined the computer revolution.
Almost all government agencies, offices, colleges and schools use computers to make the work
faster and more efficient. And even some homes now have computers. How about you? Have
you joined the computer revolution?
Knowing how to use computers is now expected of all college graduates. In fact, the use of
computers is now being taught in many schools. A computer literate person (with knowledge of
computers) has greater chances of being employed.
Unfortunately, some people still have cyberphobia (fear of computers). They still look at
computers as frightening and too complicated to operate. Unlike other phobias, however,
cyberphobia is easy to cure. And that is through education. Studying this lesson is a good start.
After studying this lesson, you should be able to:
♦ define computer and computer system;
♦ name the basic parts of a computer; and
♦ describe how computers work.

Let’s Try This

Have you seen or used a computer before? If you did, draw what a computer looks like in
the space provided below. Compare your drawing with the one on page 36. Is your drawing
similar?

5
 The illustration on page 3 shows what a personal computer (PC) looks like. Also known as
a desktop computer, the PC is the most popular form of computer. Some computers are now
even smaller than this. The smaller version of a personal computer is called laptop computer.
Study the illustration of a laptop computer on the next page.

Do you know why this is called a laptop computer? If you answered that you can place it on
your lap, you are correct. The laptop may be smaller than a personal computer but it can do
everything that a PC can.

Let’s Read

What is a computer? How does it work? Read on and find out.

Uncovering the Mystery of Computers
Technically speaking, a computer is any counting device. To compute means to count and
solve number problems. Have you seen or used a calculator before? A calculator is a small
machine used to solve faster and easier number problems such as 5,468 X 456 + 1,987. If you
try to solve the above math problem manually (by hand and without the assistance of computing
devices), it may take a long time. Get a calculator and solve the given problem. Were you able to
get the answer, 2,495,395, faster and easier? If you did, just imagine what a computer can do. It
is a more powerful computing device than a calculator.
A computer is an electronic device that can of interpret and execute (do)
programmed commands. What do you think of this definition? It’s a rather complicated one,
isn’t it? Let us make this definition easier to understand by breaking it into smaller parts.
A computer is an electronic device.

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 An electronic device is run by electricity. Do you have electronic devices at home? Can
you name some of them?
1. __________________________________________________________________
2. __________________________________________________________________
3. __________________________________________________________________

Electrical appliances such as television sets, radios and electric fans are run by electricity.
And so is a computer. This means that without electricity or other power sources such as
batteries, computers will not work.
A computer can interpret and execute (do) programmed commands.
How can a computer execute programmed commands? Programmed commands are data
or information found in a computer’s memory. They are sets of instructions that computers
efficiently follow or carry out at very high speeds.
To understand better how computers work, let’s study the parts of a personal computer. It
would be better if you go to a place like a business or government office where you can find a
PC. Try to identify its parts as you read this part of the lesson. If that is not possible, study the
illustration of a computer below. Note that its important parts are labeled.

Printer (output)
Monitor

Keyboard
(input)
Diskette

Inside CPU: Processor

(storage)
CPU

The parts of a computer system can be classified into four groups: input, processor,
storage and output.
How do the parts in each group function? On the next pages, you will get to know more
about the importance of each part.
Input
Input refers to the parts through which information is received by the computer. When you
input data or information, it is encoded (translated) into something that a computer can
“understand”. Read more about the parts that are used to input data or information to the
computer.

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 a. Keyboard — The keyboard is used to
encode (input) information that the
computer can “understand”. A computer
user must know how to type data or
information using the keyboard. We use a
typewriter to write data or information on
paper. In a computer, the data goes inside
the computer to be processed instead of
paper.

b. Mouse — This is a tool that we use to

click, select and move items on the screen.
It command the computer what to do. It
lessen the use of a keyboard.

c. Drives — Drives are found in the Central

Processing Unit or CPU. These are used
to insert a CD ROM or a floppy disk.
Computer diskettes or CDs are storage
forms of data. You insert a floppy disk into
the appropriate drive. Then, the computer
reads the data or information on that disk
and performs the commands you want for
that data.

A CD ROM (Compact Disk- Read Only

Memory) or floppy disk is a device that
stores information like a book. Whenever
you put one inside a computer, it is like
giving a book to a friend to read.

Processor and Storage

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 Processing something means that you do something about the data or information that you
receive. The processor of a computer is the brain of the computer. It computes and organizes
data. It “thinks” for the computer since this is where commands are carried out. When you lend
your book to a friend to read, he/she will use a processor (her brain) to read and understand that
book.
After reading, he/she has to remember what he/she has read. He/she stores the processed
data or information in her memory to use later on. The storage parts of a computer serve as the
computer’s memory.
Why is storage important? What will happen if you cannot remember what you have
learned? It would be difficult for you to answer questions or do a lot of things, wouldn’t it?
A computer, like the human brain, can process and store data in its memory.
Study the processor and storage parts of a computer below. They are discussed together
because they are found inside the Central Processing Unit or CPU of the computer.

a. CPU — This stands for Central

Processing Unit. The CPU is where the
processing and storage happens. It is the
part where the processor, hard disk and
modem are located.

Why is the CPU important? The CPU is

important because it is where the processor and
main storage area, of the computer’s hard disk
are located. Would the computer work without
a CPU? Without a CPU, computers wouldn’t
work.

b. Processor — This is the brain or

intelligence of the computer. It performs

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 programmed commands on data or
information. A processor’s speed
determines how fast information is
computed or processed. It cannot be seen
from the outside.

Do you know how fast processors can

process data or information?
Computer processors can process data from milliseconds (one thousandth of a second) to
microseconds (one millionth of a second). Some very powerful computers can process
information from nanoseconds (one billionth of a second) to picoseconds (one trillionth of a
second). This means that a computer performs other programmed commands at very, very fast
rates. It can process information that would normally require a thousand people working at the
same time (like in a government office). And it can do it in fractions of a second!
Read on and study the other parts found inside the CPU.
c. Hard Disk — This is a storage device for
data found inside the CPU. It cannot be
seen from the outside. Hard disks now
contain enough space or memory to
accommodate a very big amount of data.

CD ROMS and floppy disks also store

data. Unlike the hard disk, these two forms are portable ( can be moved). This means that data
can be stored in them and kept. When the data is needed, they can be put inside drives for the
computer to read.
Why are CD ROMS and floppy disks important?
They are important because you can never tell what will happen to important data. Keeping
an extra copy of important files is a good practice.
d. Modem — This is a device inside the
CPU that allows the computer to network
(communicate with other computers) or
surf the internet (a world wide network
of computers). Modems allow e-mails
(electronic mail) to be sent from one
computer to another using telephone lines.

10
Output
How does one know that the computer has processed the data or information correctly?
Checking the output of the computer does this. The output parts are the parts where processed
information is given back by a computer to its user.
Study what these parts are. Read on.

a. Computer Monitor/Screen — This is

where a temporary or soft copy of the
data is shown to the computer user. The
user can store this data in the hard disk or
floppy disk and make hard copies (on
paper) later on.
What does the computer monitor/screen
look like? The computer monitor/screen
looks like a TV screen that shows
constantly changing information.

b. Speaker — The speaker allows the

computers to play music and make sound.

c. Printer — A device used to make hard

copies or printouts. A hard copy is a
copy of a document on paper.

There are of course other parts of a personal computer but these are the most important
ones. Go back to the illustration on pages 8–11 to review the parts of a computer. At the back of
the computer unit is a series of wires and cables that connect one part of the computer system
another. These cables must be properly connected to make the computer work well.

11
 Do you remember the four groupings of the parts of a computer? They composed of what is
known as a computer system. The input, processor, storage and output parts work together
to make computer systems work more efficiently.
The actual computer is the processor found inside the CPU. It is the brain or intelligence of
the computer system. However, it has been a common practice to call computer systems simply
as computers.

Let’s Review

Answer the questions below.

1. In what ways a computer system is like a human being?
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________

2. In what ways is it not like a human being?

_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________

3. What will happen if the computer is not invented?

_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________

Compare your answers with those found in the Answer Key on page 37.

12
 Let’s Study and Analyze This

How can a computer make work easier and faster? Read on and find out?
Mrs. Gonzales is a barangay health worker. She orders medicines for the health center, then
she records the medicines given to patients. Each patient has his/her own records. At the start,
Mrs. Gonzales had to keep records manually using a logbook. The barangay council provided
her a computer set to help her with her work. The computer has a program that enables Mrs.
Gonzales to keep track of the records of patients. It also monitors the number of medicines still
available at the end of each week.
Using her computer set…
1. Mrs. Gonzales encodes or inputs (types into the computer) all the available medicines
in the clinic.
2. She also encodes the records of each patient every day including the information on
the medicines given to each patient.
3. The computer processes these data and stores them in its hard disk. A hard disk is a
device that stores data in the computer’s memory and is found inside the computer.
4. Mrs. Gonzales can make copies of these data in a smaller storage device called a
floppy disk. So wherever she goes, she carries a copy of the data on patients and
medicines in that disk.
5. When patients come, she inputs their names and their records will show on the
computer’s screen. This is a temporary output. It is called a soft copy. When the
computer is turned off, the soft copy also disappears from the screen.
6. If she wants to make copies of the soft copy, Mrs. Gonzales prints them using a
printer. The copies of the soft copy on paper are called hard copies. She can file
them or give them to the patients.
7. She updates the records of the patients who consulted her. The data is stored again in
the computer’s hard disk. Whenever she needs the record of any patient, she just
inputs their names and their complete records appear (output).
8. The computer has a program that monitors medicines. The data on medicines given
each patient are automatically processed and the available medicines are computed.
Mrs. Gonzales can ask the computer for an update. The computer can give her a
summary of the available medicines any time (output). The computer can tell her that a
medicine is lacking. She can place her order immediately.
9. This makes her job easier because she doesn’t need to manually compute for
medicines anymore. She also has faster access to the complete records of each patient
who visits the health center.

13
 Study the illustration below. It summarizes how Mrs. Gonzales used a computer to manage
patients’ records easier and faster. The computer also helps her keep track of medicines. It is a
great help to her, isn’t it?

Barangay Health Center

Mrs. Gonzales
Patient A

Patient B
Inputs Data on
Computer
(Patient Records
and Medicine
Inventory)

Patient C

For each patient: Patient

Records are Updated and
Medicine Inventory
automatically updated (Processing and
Storage)

Output:

Soft Copy: Computer

Screen Images

Hard Copy: Paper

Printouts

You have learned so far that computers help make handling of information better.
Computers are very useful. They can do computations, record keeping and other functions that
would usually require a lot of people to do.

14
 Can you think of other ways a computer could help you?
Imagine that you are a teacher. Every grading period, the grades of your students must be
computed. There are several quizzes, recitation scores and other class activities to consider. If
there are 50 students in your class, your work will be difficult. There is a lot of information you
need to process. If you have a computer and a program that can compute grades, you just need
to input the scores of each student. The computer will do the rest of the job. You just have to wait
for a few seconds to get a printout of their computed grades. The computer can make charts or
graphs based on the grades. It can be programmed to compute for class averages and other
information that you would need.
A computer can make a teacher of 50 students do his/her work faster and more accurately.
Just imagine how useful a computer can be to a principal of a large school? How about a
company that handles millions of pesos in accounts? Can you imagine the amount of human labor
a computer can help save?

Can you think of other places or

situations where computers can be
useful?

Many establishments today, like government agencies, rely on the computers to handle data
processing. Banks, schools, hospitals and businesses use computers to make their work faster
and to reduce labor requirements (working people).
How can a computer be useful to you in college?

Let’s Think About This

Many people fear that computers will take over the job of human beings. They feel that
there will come a time when computers will run businesses and human beings will not be needed
anymore. Many are afraid to lose their jobs.

Do you think that human

beings will soon be
“useless” because of
computers?

15
 Although computers make work faster and easier, human beings are still needed. Remember
that a computer still needs correct input to produce correct output. Do you know what GIGO
means? It stands for “Garbage In, garbage out”. This means that people who use computers
must know how to encode or input correct data. If a computer feed wrong information, the result
will be wrong.
People are the ones who “command” the computers to do the job they were designed or
programmed to do. Without these commands, computer’s still wouldn’t run. Input would still be
needed. Computers just help humans work faster and with lesser difficulty. But since computers
are commonly used nowadays, it is important that you know how to use one. A computer literate
or computer competent person has an advantage when looking for jobs.

Let’s Review

A. Name the parts of a computer that is classified into four groups.

_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________

B. Label the parts of the personal computer in the illustration below.

1.
5.
2.

3. 4.

7.

6.

8.

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 C. How do you define a computer?
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
D. Why is computer literacy important?
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________

Compare your answers with those found in the Answer Key on pages 37–38. Did you get
all your answers correct? That’s good if you did! If you didn’t, you may review this lesson to find
out the correct answers.

Let’s Remember

♦ A computer is an electronic device that can interpret and execute (do)

programmed commands.
♦ The parts of a computer system are divided into four groups: input, processor,
storage and output.
♦ The parts of a computer are the keyboard, mouse, drives, CPU, processor, hard
disk, modem, screen or monitor, speaker and printer.
♦ CD ROMs and floppy disks are portable or movable storage systems for data.
♦ Computers still need people to make them work well. “Garbage in- garbage out”.

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 LESSON 2

The Role of Computers in Today’s Society

In Lesson 1 you learned what a computer is, the components of a computer system, and
how it works. You also learned the parts of a personal computer. In this lesson, you will study
what computer programs are and what they can do. You will also learn the properties or
characteristics of a computer and how computers are used in various fields in today’s society.
At the end of this lesson, you are expected to:
♦ define what a computer software is;
♦ give examples of a computer program;
♦ enumerate the properties or characteristics of a computer; and
♦ describe the eight areas of computer use in society today .

Let’s Try This

In Lesson 1, you learned that a computer is an electronic device that can interpret and
execute programmed commands. A computer system has two basic components: hardware
and software.
Do you know what parts of a computer are considered the computer’s hardware?
Hardware is any part of the computer system that you can see or touch. Do you remember the
parts of the computer from Lesson 1? Write them down on the blanks provided for.
1. _____________________________________
2. _____________________________________
3. _____________________________________
4. _____________________________________
5. _____________________________________
6. _____________________________________
7. _____________________________________
8. _____________________________________
9. _____________________________________
10. _____________________________________

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 If you wrote the following: keyboard, mouse, drives, CPU, processor, hard disk,
modem, computer screen or monitor, speaker and printer, you are correct. These parts are
called computer hardware because they can be seen or touched. Computer hardware will not
function unless it contains information or data to process.

Let’s Study and Analyze This

What is Computer Software?

The brain, is called the hardware of the human computer. Why do you think so? The
brain can be seen or touched. But there is something inside the brain that makes it work so
wonderfully.
Like the human brain, a computer also has “thoughts, feelings and experiences” that are
stored in its memory. The human body reacts or moves based on these stored experiences. In the
same manner, a computer can interpret and perform programmed commands. These
programmed commands come from a computer software or program. This is installed or
inputted and stored in the computer’s memory.
To understand computer software better, study the illustration below and read the
paragraphs that follow.

Searching: past
Input: Visual image
experiences
Sound of voice

Output: Words

Movement
Storage
(Memory)

Hi, Ana!

Mang Caloy is a professional mountain climber. He earns a living by working as a guide for
those who want to climb mountains. He also teaches mountain climbing to those new in the field.
He learned to climb mountains through experience. He learned the proper techniques of climbing,
the equipment to use and how to properly use them from an experienced mountain climber.
Whenever there’s a problem, like when another climber slides off a cliff, he knows how to rescue
him/her. He also knows how to put up a tent and prepare a campfire. He can identify mountain
plants that are edible (can be eaten). A lot of people admire Mang Caloy for his skill in climbing
mountains.

19
 Now, imagine Mang Caloy as a computer. When he was younger, he did not yet know how
to climb mountains. He had the hardware (his brain and body). But at that time, he still did not
have the programmed commands in his brain to help him climb mountains faster and more
safely. Because of this he studied. Mang Caloy studying how to climb mountains is like you
installing a computer software. It is a program that makes the computer do what you want it to
do, faster and more accurately. Like Mang Caloy’s experiences being stored in his memory,
software is also stored in the computer’s memory, usually the hard disk.
That part of the memory is not always activated or used. Mang Caloy does not always use
his mountain climbing skills. When he is at home and cooking dinner, he needs to activate another
“software” in his memory. That would be the software or his experiences/learnings related to
cooking. I am sure Mang Caloy also has other “software” or programs in his brain based on his
experiences. Whenever he crosses the street, he needs to remember what his teachers taught him
about safety when he was younger. He needs to activate his driving “software” when he is driving
a car.

As you saw in Mang Caloy, having the “hardware” (brain and body) is not enough for him
to function and work well. Likewise, a computer with all its hardware is useless if there is no
software or programmed commands in its memory. Like Mang Caloy, too, a computer runs best
when it has a lot of software programs in its memory. The more programs it has, the more things it
can do.
Do you remember Mrs. Gonzales (page 14) and how the computer help her. What kind of
software or computer programs do you think would she need most?
A software or computer program that can keep records of the patients at the barangay
health center that monitors the use of medicines. The computer makes very useful for her. There
are thousands of programs or software made by computer programmers that can perform a
variety of functions.

20
 There are software that designers can use to design clothes. There are programs that make
animators able to produce better cartoon films. Businesses have programs for computing interest,
and schools use software programs for organizing students’ records and even preparing teacher’s
payroll.

How important are software to computer users? The software one needs depends on what
they have to do. The more complicated your work becomes, the more you need a computer to
make your work easier and faster
Imagine a world without computers. What would be some of the things that cannot be
done? What businesses or industries would be affected? How?

Let’s Think About This

If you were to buy a computer, what programs or software do you think you would need?
To answer this question, think of the activities you do each day. Then, imagine how a
computer can help to make those activities or tasks faster and easier to do.
Many young people would include the following software or programs in their computer:
1. Software to make letters and do other schoolwork (The Microsoft Office Program
which includes Microsoft Word for making letters and documents and Microsoft
Excel—for making computations, graphs and charts), and
2. Software program for various computer games (Usually, each game has its own CD
ROM or floppy disk)
The programs that you should have in your computer should be those that you will use. If a
software or program is copied into your hard disk, it takes up memory space. The more software
you install, the less space you will have in your memory. This would be like Mang Caloy studying
to be a doctor, a priest, a lawyer and an engineer all at the same time! If this happens, what do
you think will happen to him? Will he function well? It is best to concentrate on one field or
function. This makes sure that you would be performing well in that field.

21
 In today’s personal computer, the Windows program is a valuable tool. The Windows
Program was made by the computer giant Microsoft owned by the famous Bill Gates. It allows
a mouse to be used.
A mouse is a device that you can use to
click directly on the screen to command a
computer to do something. It lessens the
use of a keyboard. Without the Windows
program, a mouse would be useless.

Almost all personal computers in the world now use a mouse. They need the Windows
Program to work. What will happen if the company stops making this program? Why do
companies that make popular computer software become very rich?

Let’s Think About This

Today, Bill Gates is one of the richest men in the world. In fact, he was the richest man in the
world a few years ago. Not bad for a college drop-out who started making computer programs
in their garage. Now his company, Microsoft, is the world leader in computer software
technology. It is worth billions of dollars. What do you think made him as rich as he is today?
Picture of Bill Gates
Bill Gates is rich because he thought ahead of the
future. He envisioned the coming of the age of
computers. Since the 1980’s millions of people all
over the world have been buying computers. Bill Gates
became rich because he gave them something to make
their computers easier to use and run better.
Remember that computers wouldn’t run without
programs. Microsoft’s programs are some of the
world’s best.

What is a software or program?

A computer software or programs is a list of instructions that computers interpret and carry
out. These instructions are usually put in CD ROMs which can contain more data than floppy
disks. Data for computers is measured in bytes. A byte is a group of eight bits that form a
character or a symbol in a computer. For example, if you type one letter in your keyboard, the
computer would need eight bits of data to form one byte. One kilobyte has 1,024 characters.
This is equal to about one page of double-spaced text.

22
 Now, the whole Microsoft Windows and Microsoft Office software would occupy about 1
gigabyte in your hard disk. A gigabyte is a billion bytes of data. That’s 1,000,000,000 bytes
worth of data. Can you imagine how big that is? If one byte would stand for one letter, one
gigabyte of disk space can contain 1 billion letters. That’s enough to fill hundreds of books. That
space is enough to contain all the text found in 2,900 modules like the one you are reading now.
It would contain enough information to fill one big shelf of books in the library. Just imagine how
much data a computer can process!

So if your hard disk can contain only 5 gigabytes of data, installing Microsoft Windows and
MS Office programs would leave you with only 4 gigabytes of free disk space. The word only
was used in the previous sentence because many computers now have 20 gigabytes of free disk
space in their hard disks when new!
If you just bought a new computer, how will you install software programs? Software
programs are usually bought separately from the computer hardware. Programs can be very
expensive. Some would even cost thousands of pesos.
Computer programmers now made thousand of programs or software because of the
advances in computer technology. Would you want to become one? Would a job in the field of
Information Technology (IT) be a good one?
If you answered yes, you are correct. The fields of information technology and computers
are now in demand. It offer jobs that pay very well. If you want such a job, start by learning more
about computers and how to use them now.

Let’s Learn

Do you remember what drives are from the previous lesson? Drives are found in the CPU.
There are usually two drives in a personal computer. There is a CD ROM (for compact disk –
read only memory) drive for the larger disks that contain more data. And there is a floppy disk
drive for smaller diskettes. A floppy disk is called such because inside it is a round , or floppy
(can be bent) magnetic tape that can record information. The CD ROMs or floppy disks are
inserted into the appropriate drive. The computer copies the data from these storage forms into
its own built-in memory, the hard disk.

23
 CD Rom
Drive A

Inside CPU
CPU
Floppy
– Hard Disk
disk Drive B

If the computer hardware properly works and the software programs run well, what can
the computer do? A computer can do a lot of things as long as it has been programmed to do
them. You cannot expect Mang Caloy to dance ballet if he hasn’t trained to be one, can you?
This points out that data are important. Data or information is the life-blood or fuel of the
computer. If there is no data in its memory, the computer wouldn’t run!

Of course, this is assuming that electricity

is already available. A computer, after all is
an electronic device that runs on
electricity.

Let’s Review

Match the software in Column A with the business or occupation in Column B. Write only
the letter.

Column A Column B
_____ 1. A program that keeps track of sales A. Office secretary
and income. B. Traffic policeman
_____ 2. A program that can process student C. Photo studio
records.
D. School registrar
_____ 3. A program that handles business
appointments. E. Grocery store
_____ 4. A program that controls traffic lights. F. Fashion designer
_____ 5. A program that can be used to design
clothes.
_____ 6. A program that can alter photographs.

Compare your answers with those found in the Answer Key on page 38.

24
 Let’s Read

What are the properties or characteristics of a computer? Read on to find out.

Properties of a Computer
Speed
Computers are fast. They perform various activities by executing programmed instructions.
For example, they can quickly multiply the number of hours of work per day by the rate of pay
of each employee per hour. These operations are done in fractions of a second. Computers
process information depending on the speed of their processor—the computer’s brain. A
processor with 500 megahertz speed can process data or information 5 times faster than one with
a speed of 100 megahertz. The faster the speed of the processor, the faster the programmed
commands are carried out. Do you expect computers with faster processors to cost more? If you
answered yes, you are correct. Faster processors are harder to produce. They cost much more
than slower processors.
Storage
You have learned earlier how much data hard disks can store. These are measured in
megabytes (1 million bytes) or gigabytes (1 billion bytes). A good computer can have access
to up to a billion characters or letters of data. Imagine how big this is knowing that one module
like this contains about 8,000 words or about 30,000-40,000 letters or characters.
Accuracy
Accuracy means correctness of data. Information systems or computer systems can have
errors, too. But these errors are very rarely due to the computer itself. They are errors in
software programs or mistakes in computer use. Computers commit mistakes primarily only as a
result of human error.
Do you a still remember what GIGO is from Lesson 1? It stands for “Garbage in –garbage
out”. The computer will always accurately perform its programmed commands regardless of the
accuracy of the data inputted..
Versatility
Versatility means being able to do many things and adapt to many situations. A single
computer can have many uses depending on the programs or software that its memory contains.
A computer can be used to write letters, to prepare graphs, compute interests, play games and
even create artworks! Can you think of other things it can do?
Automation
Once a computer is commanded to do something, it does do automatically and without
stopping. It will stop only when you want it to stop. This high level of automation (ability to work
alone) makes computers fast and useful.

25
Reliability
Computers are highly reliable. They are very good at doing tasks that are repeated over and
over again. People usually get bored with such tasks. Computers don’t get sick or take coffee
breaks and very seldom complain. Can you understand why some bosses prefer working with
computers rather than their employees?

no coffee
Computer
break

doesn’t
get sick

seldom
complains

Let’s Think About This

Consider the six characteristics of computers: speed, storage, reliability, accuracy,

versatility and reliability. Which one is most appealing to you based on your needs? If you had
money, would you like to buy a computer to help you make your work easier and faster? And
perhaps, even better?
People have used computers for this purpose. Computers are used in many fields such as in
government, business, schools, hospitals, factories, and even homes. It is fascinating to note that
the computer started with the abacus. This is a Chinese invention that is still being used by some
businessmen today. An abacus is a computing device that makes solving number problems easier.

Abacus

26
 Let’s Study and Analyze This

How Computers are Used in Today’s Society

In today’s society, computers have taken center stage. They can be found everywhere.
These are the eight areas in which computers are used.
♦ Information systems/data processing
♦ Personal computing
♦ Science, research and engineering
♦ Process/ device control
♦ Education
♦ Computer aided design (CAD)
♦ Entertainment
♦ Artificial intelligence
Do you want to know more about them? Read on.
Information systems/data processing
Computers are being used in many areas to handle data. Banks use computer to keep
records of deposits and compute interests. Schools use them to record and compute student’s
grades and the salaries of teachers. Airline industries depend heavily on computers to make sure
that airplanes arrive on time and passengers are booked for their flights.
Personal computing
At home, the personal computer can be very useful. Mothers can use computers to keep
family records, monitor household expenses and keep track of grocery supplies. They can even
use computers to place orders and shop. Fathers use computers to balance financial statements
and monitor household expenses. Children use the computer to do their assignments and make
greeting cards. Of course, computers can also be used to watch movies on CD ROMs, play
music or play computer games.

27
 The personal computer has also stopped being a detached or stand-alone machine that
works on its own. Today, computers have become remote terminals, which can be linked to
larger networks of other computers. A good example would be the use of the internet. It is
possible for a person to use his/her computer at home to communicate with other computers or
websites all over the world. The data from computers travel through telephone lines. If you know
how to use a computer, you can be a part of the world wide web. This is a worldwide network
of computer users. Through this, you can chat with a friend abroad. You can also send an
electronic mail or even purchase products while sitting in front of your computer.
Have you heard of the dot.com revolution? Some businesses have already made
themselves accessible through the internet. An address in the internet usually ends with a .com.
For example, amazon.com is a world leader in book sales through the internet. If you have a
modem, a telephone and an internet server, you can already access the millions of business
and addresses on the web. This is like a postal system, where messages are sent in seconds!

Email

Email

Email

Email

The Worldwide Web

Science, research and engineering

Scientists use computers to study complex mathematical problems. Researchers can make
graphs and charts, make predictions and prepare nice presentations using the computer.
“Intelligent buildings” whose elevators and other functions are run by computers already exist.
These buildings have automatic computer-controlled air-conditioning systems that precisely
control office temperatures based on the time of day. Elevators now run faster and safer because
of computers. Medical services and research rely very much on computers. They have made
impossible things, possible today.
Process/device control
Industries now use computers. They make the production of goods and services faster. The
quality or goods improve and more savings are realized. Do you know what an assembly line
is? An assembly line is usually found in factories. This is a system of making goods or products
using a step by step process. This system is faster and more efficient. Computers are use to make
assembly lines work more efficiently. The result is better quality and cheaper products.

28
Education
Education is a field that is greatly benefiting from the use of computers. Many teachers
trained in computers pass on their skills to their students. Classroom lectures are made more
interesting and effective when computer based- learning is adapted. Computers are also used to
produce teaching materials that are interesting and effective. Computer training schools have
flourished because people are starting to see the value of computer literacy or competency.
Computer Aided Design (CAD)
Today, airplanes fly safer, cars drive faster and trains arrive on time because of their new
designs. Using the computer, engineers have designed new products and machines that are more
productive and efficient. Computer Aided Design or CAD is also used to make artworks, posters
and other materials where design is important.
Entertainment
Have you seen a movie lately? Can you compare these movies with those you have seen
before? Most movies now use computer technology to make special effects that are more
convincing and fascinating. Computer based games are also very popular.
Artificial intelligence
Today’s computers can simulate or copy many human capabilities such as reading,
calculating, grasping, speaking, remembering, drawing and even comparing numbers! People in
the computer industry conduct researches to make better hardware and software that can make
computers imitate intelligent human behavior. If you have seen robots before, then you have seen
an example of artificial intelligence. Artificial intelligence is also seen in other that can imitate
human qualities. There are now machines that can recognize human voices and play chess with
people.

29
 Of course, computers would never be able to imitate human creativity, feelings, emotions
and humor. But machines are now being developed to imitate human movements and even try to
copy human reasoning. How do you feel about this?

Let’s Think About This

The great United States President, John F. Kennedy said, “Man is still the most
extraordinary computer of all.” Do you agree with him? Explain your answer based on what
you have learned about computers from this module.
Computers have indeed become an important part of human lives. Whether you like it or
not, you will one day use one or work with one. Learning and understanding what computers are
can help you lessen your cyberphobia. Computers are the wave of the future. Don’t be left
behind.

Let’s Review

A. Encircle the parts that make-up the hardware of a computer. Put a line under the
software.
1. Modem
2. Microsoft Windows
3. CPU
4. Computer games
5. Keyboard
6. Processor
7. Microsoft Word
8. Monitor or Screen
9. Mouse
10. Hard Disk.

30
 B. Give an example for each of the 8 areas of computer use in society today.
♦ Information systems/data processing
_____________________________________________________________
♦ Personal computing
_____________________________________________________________
♦ Science, research and engineering
_____________________________________________________________
♦ Process/ device control
_____________________________________________________________
♦ Education
_____________________________________________________________
♦ Computer aided design (CAD)
_____________________________________________________________
♦ Entertainment
_____________________________________________________________
♦ Artificial intelligence
_____________________________________________________________
C. What is the life-blood or fuel of a computer? Why?
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________

Compare your answers with those in the Answer Key on pages 39–40. If you got all
answers correct, that’s great. You have learned a lot about computers from this lesson. If your
answers are incorrect, make the necessary corrections in your answers before proceeding to the
next page.

31
Let’s Remember

♦ The parts of a personal computer hardware, are the keyboard, mouse, drives,
CPU, processor, hard disk, modem, computer screen or monitor, speaker and
printer.
♦ The programmed commands are the software stored in the computer’s memory,
usually the hard disk.
♦ There are thousands of programs or software made by computer programmers that
can perform a variety of functions.
♦ The Windows Program, made by Microsoft, allows the mouse to be used. Without
this program, a mouse would be useless.
♦ Computer software and programs are lists of instructions that computers interpret and
carry out.
♦ CD ROMs contain more data than floppy disks.
♦ Data for computers is measured in bytes. A byte is a group of eight bits in a computer
that form a character or a symbol. A gigabyte is a billion bytes of data.
♦ Drives are found in the CPU. A CD ROM drive is for CD ROMs. CD ROMs
contain more data than the smaller floppy disks. A floppy disk drive is for the smaller
diskettes.
♦ Data or information is the life-blood or fuel of the computer. If there is no data in
its memory, the computer wouldn’t function.
♦ Computers commit mistakes only as a result human error.
♦ Qualities or characteristics of a computer are speed, storage, accuracy, versatility,
reliability, and automation.
♦ The eight areas of computer use in today’s society are:
a. Information systems/data processing
b. Personal computing
c. Science, research and engineering
d. Process/ device control
e. Education
f. Computer aided design (CAD)
g. Entertainment
h. Artificial intelligence

32
 What Have You Learned?

To find out what you have learned from this module, answer the following questions.
A. What are the groups that make-up a computer system.
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
B. Name the 6 qualities or characteristics of a computer.
1. _____________________________________
2. _____________________________________
3. _____________________________________
4. _____________________________________
5. _____________________________________
6. _____________________________________
B. Differentiate computer hardware from software.
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
C. Explain this statement: Data or information is the life-blood or fuel of the
computer.
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________

Compare your answers with those found in the Answer Key on page 40. Did you get your
answers correct or are your answers similar? If you did, that’s good.
If you didn’t get all the answers correct, that’s okay. Review the parts you have missed and
replace your wrong answers with the correct ones.

33
 Let’s Sum Up

In this module on introduction to computers, you learned what a computer is and how it
works.
♦ In Lesson 1 you learned what a computer is, the components of a computer system, its
parts and how it works.
♦ In Lesson 2, you learned what computer programs are and what they can do. You also
learned the characteristics or qualities of a computer and how computers are used in
various fields in today’s society.

34
 Answer Key

A. Let’s See What You Already Know (pages 2–4)

A. Encircle the letter of the correct answer.
1. a
2. h
3. a
4. c
5. c
6. c
7. b
8. b
9. b
10. c
B. Parts of a computer

CD Rom
Speaker
CPU

Monitor
Floppy disk
or disk drive

Mouse
Keyboard

Printer

35
 C. Name the six properties /characteristics of a computer.
1. Speed
2. Accuracy
3. Versatility
4. Automation
5. Storage
6. Reliability
D. Name the eight areas of computer use in today’s society are:
♦ Information systems/data processing
♦ Personal computing
♦ Science, research and engineering
♦ Process/ device control
♦ Education
♦ Computer aided design (CAD)
♦ Entertainment
♦ Artificial intelligence

B. Lesson 1
Let’s Try This (drawing page 5)

Computer

36
Laptop computer (page 6)

Let’s Review (page 12)

A. In what ways a computer system is like a human being?
a. Computers need input or data. This would be like human beings who need
experience to learn
b. Computers can process and store information. This is like the brain of human
beings that can process and store information, too.
c. Computers can give output. Humans respond to their environment.
B. In what ways is it not?
a. Computers run on electricity.
b. Computers are not alive.
C. What will happen if the computer is not invented?
Work in government offices, business and other places would be slower and
less efficient. A lot of people working in computer industries would loose their
jobs.
Let’s Review (pages 16–17)
A. The four groups of computer parts.
Input
Processor
Storage
Output

37
 B. Label the parts of a personal computer in the drawing.

CD Rom
Speaker
CPU

Monitor
Floppy disk

Mouse
Keyboard

Printer

B. Write the complete definition of a computer.

A computer is an electronic devise that can interpret and execute (do)
programmed commands.
C. Why is computer literate important?
A computer literate person has a greater chance of being employed.
Knowing how to use computers can also help one with his work by making it
faster and more efficient.

C. Lesson 2
Let’s Review (page 24)
1. E
2. D
3. A
4. B
5. F
6. C

38
Let’s Try This (pages 30–31)
A. Encircle the parts that make-up the hardware of a computer. Put a line under the
software.
1. Modem
2. Microsoft Windows
3. CPU
4. Computer games
5. Keyboard
6. Processor
7. Microsoft Word
8. Monitor or Screen
9. Mouse
10. Hard Disk.
B. Give an example under each of the 8 categories of computer use.
♦ Information systems/data processing
Processing and recording grades of students in schools
♦ Personal computing
Preparing school related work and using the internet
♦ Science, research and engineering
Intelligent buildings
♦ Process/ device control
Automated traffic control systems
♦ Education
Computer training in schools
♦ Computer aided design (CAD)
Making posters and artworks
♦ Entertainment
Computed generated special effects in movies
♦ Artificial intelligence
Robots

39
 D. What is the life-blood or fuel of a computer? Why?
Software contains data, a set of commands or information that a computer
interprets and executes. These data are stored inside the computer’s memory or
hard disk. Without data, the computer wouldn’t work.

D. What Have You Learned? (page 33)

A. What are the groups that make-up a computer system.
Input
Processor
Storage
Output.
B. Name the 6 qualities or characteristics of a computer.
1. Speed
2. Accuracy
3. Versatility
4. Reliability
5. Storage
6. Automation
C. Differentiate computer hardware from software.
The personal computer’s hardware is composed of mechanical parts that can
run programs while a computer software is of instructions that computers
interpret and carry out. Both must be resent for the computer to work.
D. Explain this statement: Data or information is the life-blood or fuel of the
computer.
If there is no data in its memory, the computer wouldn’t run or work!

40
 Glossary

Access To connect, allow entry or use of

Analyze To assess, to evaluate
Artificial Man-made, not natural
Automated Functions on its own
Basic Simple, primary
Beam A ray, a line
Biological Referring to life or living things
Cliff A steep part of a mountain
Complicated Difficult to understand, hard
Composed Made up of
Currently Applies to here and now, at this time, today
Data Set of information
Device A machine, an equipment
Disk A form of storage, a flat and circular object
Efficient Useful
Electronic A machine that uses electricity
Enumerate To identify one at a time, to list
Establishments Institutions, organizations
Evaluate To analyze, to assess
Execute To do, to carry out
Fascinating Awe-inspiring, wonderful
Floppy Pliable, bendable, not hard
Fuel Something that gives power
Functions Works as, does the work of, is used for
Fundamental Basic, serves as a foundation or start of
Industries Businesses, companies involved in production
Interpret To translate, to give the meaning of
Life-blood Energy giving, source of life (like blood)
Personal For use of one person

41
Phobia An irrational or unreasonable and intense fear
Professional Expert, educated, master of
Properties Qualities
Reliable Can be depended on, constant
Revolution A movement, a force
Salaries Payments for work done
Server In the Internet, a server is a company that provides access to the world wide web
Split-second Less than a second, very fast
Summarizes To condense, to make short
Traffic Flow of vehicles
Vehicle A mode of transportation, a carrier, a car or bus
Version A type of, a different copy of, similar to
Wave A revolution, a movement

References

Ardley,Bridget and Neil Ardley. (1989). The kingfisher book of 1001 questions and
answers .London: Kingfisher Books, Inc.
Landau Sidney, ed. (1987). Webster’s illustrated contemporary dictionary. Chicago,
Illinois, USA: J.G. Ferguson Publishing Company.
Leon, Alexis and Mathhew Leon. . (1999). Introduction to computers. New Delhi, India:
Leon Technology World Inc.
Long, Larry. ( c.1994). Introduction to computers and information systems (4thedition).
New Jersey, U.S.A.: Prentice-Hall Inc.
Maran, Ruth.(1998). Computer simplified (4th edition). Ontario, Canada: IDG Books
Worldwide.

42