INTRODUCTION TO INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGY (ICT)

At the end of this chapter, the students should be able to:

1. define ICT;
2. trace the evolution of technology, particularly computers;
3. identify the different parts of the computer system, and categorize the different computer
peripherals;
4. Assess why computers are considered powerful thinking machines;
5. explain the role of technology in media and how it affects communication; and
6. Recognize the current trends in information technology.

OPENING ACTIVITY

Small Group Discussion

Form five groups. Each group is assigned to a specific electronic device.

Group 1 • a mobile phone

Group 2 • a laptop speaker

Group 3 • a power bank

Group 4 • a flash drive

Group 5 • a headset or earphones

Discuss among yourselves the use of the device, the frequency of your usage, and your experience in
using it. Share your group’s insights with the class.

ACM — Association of Computing Machinery

ENIAC — Electronic Numeric Integrator and Calculator

ICT — Information and Communications Technology

IDI — ICT Development Index

IT — Information Technology

ITU — International Telecommunication Union

USB - Universal Serial Bus

Artificial intelligence — is defined as the science of making computers or machines in general to do

things that require intelligence when done by humans.

Automation — is the technique of making an apparatus, a process, or a system to operate automatically.

Big data — is a term that describes large and complex volumes of data analyzed for insights to help in
making better decisions and more effective strategic plans.
Blog — is a combination of two words—web and log. It works the same way as pen and paper would,
but the privacy becomes irrelevant given that a blog can be seen by anyone online.

Blogger — is a person who writes blogs.

Communication — is a process in which information is exchanged between individuals through verbal

and non-verbal means.

Communication device — is a hardware component that aids a computer to send (transmit) and receive
data, instructions, and information to and from one or more computers.

Compact disc — is a flat, round, portable metal disc.

Computer — is an electronic device, operating under the control of instructions stored in its own
memory that can accept data, manipulate the data according to specified rules, produce results and
store the results for future use.

Desktop computer — is designed to be placed on a desk, and is typically made up of a few different
parts, including the computer case, monitor, keyboard, and mouse.

Exploitation — refers to an action of making use of and benefiting from digital resources such as
changing grades by hacking the system.

Hard disk — is a data storage hardware device that offers a greater storage capacity than a floppy disk,
Zip disk, or USB flash drive.

Information — refers to the knowledge obtained from reading, investigation, study, or research.

Information age — is a period in human history characterized by the shift from traditional industry to an
information technology-based economy brought by industrialization.

Information and Communications Technology (ICT) — refers to technology that supports activities
involving information such as gathering, processing, storing, and presenting data. Increasingly, these
activities also involve collaboration and communication.

Information Technology (IT) - pertains to the industry that involves computers, software, networking,
and other IT infrastructure that help relay or manage information deemed important in modern-day
living.

Input device - is any hardware component that allows one to enter data or instructions into a computer.

Intelligent system — is a far more complex machine capable of learning.

Laptop computer — is a battery-powered computer that is more portable than a desktop, allowing one
to use it almost anywhere.

Libel — refers to publication of a false statement that damages one's business or personal reputation.

Mainframe - is a powerful multi-user computer capable of supporting hundreds or thousands of users

simultaneously.
Media — refers to communication devices. Communication devices are used in interaction and/or
communication.

Minicomputer — is a multi-user computer capable of supporting from 10 to hundreds of users

simultaneously.

Modem — is a device or program that enables a computer to transmit data over, for example,
telephone or cable lines.

Motherboard - is a circuitry of the system unit which is commonly a part of, associated with, or linked to
a circuit board.

Output device - is any hardware component that transmits information to one or more people.

Personal computer — is a small, single-user computer based on a microprocessor.

Plagiarism — is the act of using someone's intellectual property (e.g., ideas and written works) and
claiming it as one's own.

Port — is an endpoint of communication in an operating system.

Introduction to Information and Communications Technology (ICT)

Smartphone - is a mobile phone that performs many of the functions of a computer, typically having a
touchscreen interface, internet access, and an operating system capable of running downloaded
applications.

Software piracy — refers to an act of installing a copy of software into one's computer without
permission, and/or producing a copy disregarding the copyrights.

Storage — holds data, instructions, and information for future use.

Supercomputer — is an extremely fast computer that can perform millions of instructions per second.

System unit - is a box-like case that contains the electronic components of the computer which are used
to process data.

Technology — has made communication much easier and faster through telephones, computers, and
mobile devices.

Trend - refers to a particular style in fashion, devices, or entertainment. There could always be a new
trend coming along to replace the old.

USB flash drive - is a portable storage device that has more storage capacity than a floppy disk or Zip
disk. It is small and lightweight enough to be transported on a keychain or put in one's pocket.

User - is anyone who communicates and interacts with a computer or makes use of the information it
generates.

Workstation -- is similar to a personal computer but has a more powerful microprocessor and a higher-
quality monitor.
Information and Communications Technology: An Overview

The concept of technology has evolved throughout the years. As the rate of human progress continues
to increase, society has adapted in such a way that technology no longer appeals to mechanical or
electrical systems alone. The term technology presently includes advancements in communication and
how information is handled, thus enabling governments, organizations, industries, and ordinary
individuals to improve on their decision-making, business processes, and everyday living. The term
Information and Communications Technology or ICT was defined in a study conducted by Zuppo (2012)
as "related to technologies that facilitate the transfer of information and various types of electronically
mediated communication." However, this definition was considered too broad that Zuppo created an
ICT hierarchy to identify key aspects such as ICT in education, business, and the economic sector. These
classifications, however, contain some degree of commonality.

The need for devices, such as mobile phones, laptops, and tablets, is identified in all instances. This fact
is perhaps due to the human need to "belong." According to Baumeister and Leary (1995), the
"belongingness hypothesis" states that people have a basic psychological need to feel closely connected
to others, and that caring, affectionate bonds from close relationships are a major part of human
behavior. This need can be fulfilled through the different modes of communication, be it face-to-face,
online, through voice, or simply through a text message, manifested in the number of people with
mobile devices such as smartphones, tablets, and the latest technologies such as "wearable devices."

Nowadays, it is no longer surprising to find a person owning several of these gadgets, which may not
necessarily be for different purposes. ICT is ubiquitous and access to it is relatively affordable and
somewhat effortless. This makes the demand much higher as different sectors, industries, and
organizations now also incorporate ICT in their daily business processes.
FIGURE 1.1 Hierarchy by Colrain Zuppo
FIGURE 1.2 Global changes in levels of ICT uptake per 100 inhabitants, key ICT indicators, from 2005-
2016

The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) conducts an annual study on the prevalence of ICT
around the world. The report, called the ICT Development Index (IDI), includes quantitative indicators
regarding ICT access, usage, and skills in different regions and countries. Figure 1.2 denotes the upward
trend of people needing ICTs, with the estimate that mobile subscriptions now outnumber world
population.

IT versus ICT

When do we use the term ICT and how does it differ from IT? ICT, or information and communications
technology, is often used in a more general sense, and is described as using computers and other digital
technologies to assist individuals or institutions in handling or using information. ICT is technology that
supports activities involving information such as gathering, processing, storing, and presenting data.
Increasingly, these activities also involve collaboration and communication.

IT, or information technology, pertains to the industry that involves computers, software, networking,
and other IT infrastructure to help relay or manage information important in modern-day living as seen
primarily in large companies or corporations. Simply put, IT is a subset of ICT as the technology used in
the field of IT aids in the use of ICT (Wang, 2016).

Breakdown of ICT

ICT is made up of three words, namely information, communications, and technology.

-INFORMATION

Information refers to the knowledge obtained from reading, investigation, study, or research. Some of
the tools that transmit information are the telephone, television, and radio. Not to be confused with
data, information is regarded as processed data. Computers normally process data that are later
understood as information. For example, while typing on your laptop, you usually punch in random
letters on your keyboard to make up words and sentences. The typing on the keyboard is considered as
input data while the words and sentences you see on your computer monitor is considered as output
information.

Information is needed to make decisions and to foresee the future. For example, scientists can detect
the formation of a tsunami using the latest technology and warn the public to avoid disasters in the
affected areas.

Processed information is called knowledge. Knowledge helps fulfill daily tasks. For example, knowledge is
used to predict tomorrow's weather and decide if there is a need to bring an umbrella. Knowledge is
also used to analyze the stock market and check which company is worth investing in.

-COMMUNICATION

Communication is an act of transmitting messages. It is a process in which information is exchanged

between individuals through verbal and non-verbal means.
In the prehistoric days, humans communicated through signs or symbols as evidenced by cave paintings
and drawings, rock art, stone carvings, and the like. Forms of communication have evolved through time
as communicating more and more complex ideas has become necessary. With technology,
communication is faster, more convenient, and more efficient. When face-to-face meeting is not
possible, long distance communication or virtual communication is now common and easy with the use
of smartphones and computers with internet access.

- TECHNOLOGY

Technology has evolved in ways that improve people's daily activities. As mentioned above, technology
has made communication much easier and faster through telephones, fax machines, mobile devices,
and the internet. It has also made broadcasting of information, such as news or weather reports, more
effective. Radio, television, satellites, and the Worldwide Web are powerful tools that can be used by
individuals to gather needed information to aid them in their office, school or house work, or in simple
day-to-day activities.

EVOLUTION OF TECHNOLOGY

The evolution of technology has always depended on one thing: the human rationale. Humans tend to
think of ways on how to discharge tasks or workload, or do daily activities easily.

The concept of technology always starts with the basic tool. In order to build a house, one cannot simply
use his or her own two hands to cut wood and attach the wooden pieces together. A hacksaw, hammer,
and set of nails are needed to accomplish the task. The concept of a wheel has also made transportation
much easier, and enabled people to move several objects from one place to another with ease.

By combining a set of tools, people have come up with machines that can do the tasks faster and more
efficiently. A single-wheel transportation tool has inspired the creation of a machine capable of
transporting, not just objects, but also passengers. Thus, vehicles have nowadays become more of a
necessity rather than a form of luxury.

Another type of machine that is considered a necessity is the computer. A computer is an electronic
device, operating under the control of instructions stored in its own memory, that can accept data,
manipulate the data according to specified rules, produce results, and store the results for future use.
However, as technology evolves, so do machines. Computers today are no longer the same computers
your parents must have first used. Most machines, including computers, have evolved through the
process of automation.

Automation is defined as "the technique of making an apparatus, a process, or a system operate

automatically." Automation includes a broad range of technologies normally connecting computer
systems to other systems, such as sensors, wireless applications, expert systems, and systems
integration, among others. The integration is made in such a way that these interconnected systems are
capable of self-acting or self-regulation.
Automated systems can reduce the instances of errors, which are usually caused by human-based
decision and comprehension. Production companies often use automated systems as part of their
business process as automation increases productivity and lessens the time to market.

However, an automated system is not the same as an intelligent system. Intelligent systems are far more
complex and are capable of learning. This is where the concept of artificial intelligence comes in. One of
the latest inventions in the automotive industry is the intelligent car which is capable of driving and
parking by itself.

HISTORY OF COMPUTER

With the evolution of technology, computers have taken a major role in the last three decades. This is
due to the fact that people have become increasingly dependent on computers to do their daily tasks in
school, at work, or in their routines. What started off as simply for research purposes, computers are
now designed to be more compact, more mobile, and more integrated in people's daily activities.

Computers have evolved based on the type of components used in the design. At present, scientists and
researchers have identified five generations based on design, suitability, and reliability. These
generations of computers are briefly defined below (Pepito, 2002).

FIRST-GENERATION COMPUTER (1946-1959)

The first electronic computer was developed in 1946. Designed by J. Presper Eckert and John W.
Mauchly from the University of Pennsylvania and financed by the United States Army, the

Electronic Numeric Integrator and Calculator (ENIAC) is considered to be the first-generation computer.
ENIAC was a modular computer, composed of several panels capable of performing different functions.
However, it could store only limited or small amount of information and only do arithmetic operations
such as addition and subtraction of up to 10 digits. The computer was roughly 167 square meters in size,
and weighed

SECOND-GENERATION COMPUTER (1959-1965)

In this second generation, the transistor was used as the interior sections of the computer. Transistors
were much smaller, faster, and more dependable than the vacuum tubes of the first-generation
computer. They generated less heat and consumed less electricity but were still very costly.

THIRD-GENERATION Computer (1971 – 1980)

In 1965, Jack Kilby invented the integrated circuit (IC) that was used instead of transistors as the interior
sections to build the computer. A single IC has many transistors, resistors, and capacitors that even the
full circuit board of a transistor can be replaced entirely with one chip. This chip made the computers
smaller, unfailing, and effective. In this third generation, remote processing, time-sharing, and
multiprogramming operating system were used.

FOURTH-GENERATION COMPUTER (1971—1980)

From 1971 to 1980, very large scale integrated (VLSI) circuits were used to build computers. These
circuits have about 5,000 transistors and other circuit elements with their connected circuits on a single
chip known as the microprocessor. These fourth-generation computers such as personal computers
became more powerful, dense, reliable, and inexpensive. The other application of this microprocessor
technology can be used and applied for pocket calculators, television sets, automotive devices, and
audio and video appliances.

FIFTH-GENERATION COMPUTER (1980-ONWARDS)

In this fifth generation, the VLSI technology has evolved into what is called ultra large-scale integration
(ULSI) technology, with the manufacture of microprocessor chips having 10 million electronic
components. This generation involves computer intelligence which is associated with artificial
intelligence (Al), natural language, and expert systems that interpret the means and practices of
producing computers that think like human beings.

COMPONENTS OF A COMPUTER

What makes a computer work? By definition, a computer is an electronic device that manipulates
information or data. It has the ability to store, retrieve, and process data. It contains both hardware
components and software applications.

The hardware pertains to the computer's physical devices. It is any part of the computer that can be
seen and touched. A computer's hardware consists of interrelated electronic devices that are used to
manipulate the computer's operation, input devices, and output devices.

INPUT DEVICES

Working with a computer would be ineffective if one does not intermingle with it because the machine
cannot accept and receive instructions and/or deliver an output on its own. Input devices enter or send
data and instructions from the user or from another computer system on the internet while output
devices send back the administered data to the user or to another computer system.

The following are some of the most common and important input devices of a computer:

 Keyboard — is the most common input device that accepts letters, numbers, and commands
from the user.
  Mouse - lets one select options from on-screen menus. A mouse is used by moving it on a flat
surface, pressing its two buttons (left and right), and scrolling the wheel that is located between
the buttons.
There are also alternatives to using a mouse. A trackball has a ball that can rotate using a finger
or the palm of a hand to move the pointer. A touchpad also called a trackpad is a touch-
sensitive pad that lets the user move the pointer by touching and dragging his or her finger on
the pad. Touchpads are commonly built-in on laptop computers.
 Microphone allows a user to speak into the computer to input data and instructions. While
there are available stand-alone microphones for computers, most of the time, users buy a
headset—a combination of microphone and earphones—for the sake of practicality.
 Scanner — converts printed material (such as text and pictures) into a form the computer can
use. There are different types of scanners available; the most common is the flatbed scanner.
Scanners look like miniature printers with a flip-up cover protecting the glass platen. They are
often built into multi-function printers (MFPs). Another type becoming common nowadays is the
hand-held or portable scanners. Portable scanners can be small enough to fit inside one's
pocket. Pen scanners are just a bit bigger than fountain pens and can scan the text of a
document line by line. They do not give high-resolution scans and are more expensive than
flatbed scanners.
 Digital camera — allows one to take pictures then transfer the photographed images to the
computer or printer instead of storing the images on a traditional film.
 PC video camera — is a digital video camera that enables users to create a movie or take still
photographs electronically. With the PC video camera attached to the computer, users can see
each other as they communicate via the computer.

OUTPUT DEVICES

An output device is any hardware component that transmits information to one or more people. The
three commonly used output devices are as follows:

• Printer - produces text and graphics on a physical medium such as paper. The two types of printer are
the impact printer and the non-impact printer. An impact printer makes contact with the paper by
pressing an inked ribbon against the paper using a hammer or pins. An example of an impact printer is
the dot-matrix printer. A non-impact printer does not use a striking device to produce characters on the
paper, and because it does not hammer against the paper, the printer produces less noise.

Examples of non-impact printers are inkjet printers and laser printers.

• Monitor — displays text, graphics, and videos on a screen. Many monitors look similar to a television.
The three types of monitor available in the market are the following:

a. Cathode ray tube (CRT) — is a vacuum tube containing an electron gun at one end and a fluorescent
screen t another end. From this electron gun, a process called thermionic emission generates a strong
beam of electrons. These electrons travel through a narrow path within the tube with high speed using
various electromagnetic devices and finally strike the phosphor points present on the fluorescent
screen, thus creating an image. Monitors employ the CRT technology used most commonly, in the
manufacturing of television screens. A stream of intense high-energy electrons is used to form images
on a fluorescent screen.

b. Liquid crystal display (LCD) — is a flat-panel display that consists of a layer of color or monochrome
pixels arranged schematically between a couple of transparent electrodes and two polarizing filters.

Optical effect is achieved by polarizing the light in varied amounts and making it pass through the liquid
crystal layer.

Figure 1.15 Different types of monitor. A. CRT Monitor. B. Liquid crystal display. C. Light-emitting diode

c. Light-emitting diode (LED) — is a flat-panel display that uses light-emitting diodes for backlighting.
The display is of LCD only but the backlighting is done by LEDs. LED monitors are said to use much lesser
power than CRT and LCD. Thus, they are also considered environment-friendly.

• Speaker — allows one to hear music, voice, and other sounds. The signal used to produce the sound
that comes from a computer speaker is created by the computer's sound card.

SYSTEM UNIT

The system unit is the enclosure composed of the main elements of a computer that are used to
administer data. This can be referred to as a computer case or tower. The circuitry of the system unit
containing the primary components of a computer with connectors into which other circuit boards can
be positioned is recognized as motherboard.

STORAGE DEVICES

A computer can be utilized with only processing, memory, input, and output devices. To make it very
valuable, however, a computer also needs a place to hold program files and all related files when they
are not in use. The goal of using a storage is to keep data permanently.

There are many types of storage devices which include the flash disk drive, a small portable storage
device often referred to as pen drives, thumb drives, or jump drives. It has a memory capacity

of 2GB, 4GB, 8GB, 16GB, 32GB, 64GB, 128GB, ITB, and now up to 2TB. Another type of storage is the
hard disk drive. Most personal computers have at least one non-removable hard disk that is regarded as
a non-volatile memory which permanently stores and retrieves data.
Another storage device is the compact disc. It is a flat, round, and portable metal disc. One type of
compact disc is a CD-ROM, which can be accessed using most CD and DVD drives. Another type of
compact disc is a DVD-ROM, which has enough storage capacity to store a full-length movie.

Figure 1.16 Storage devices -flash drive, hard drive, and compact discs

WHY COMPUTERS ARE POWERFUL

Computers are powerful for a variety of reasons. They work with remarkable speed, reliability,
consistency, and accuracy. Computers can store large amounts of data and information.

Also, computers allow users to communicate with other users or computers. A user is anyone who
communicates and interacts with a computer or makes use of the information it generates.

 Speed

In the system unit, operations get done through electronic circuits. When data, instructions, and
information drift along these circuits, they travel at incredibly fast speeds. Most computers bring out
billions of operations in a single second. The world's fastest computer can perform trillions of operations
in one second.

 Reliability and consistency

The electronic components in modern computers are dependable because they have a low failure rate.
The high reliability of components enables the computer to produce consistent result.

 Accuracy

Computers process large amounts of data and generate error-free results, provided the data is inputted
correctly and the instructions work properly. If data is inaccurate, the resulting output is also incorrect, a
computing phrase known as garbage in, garbage out points out that the accuracy of a computer's
output depends on the accuracy of the input.

 Communication
It is unbearable to go through a day without communication. Communication happens between two or
more people sending and receiving messages from one another. The one sending the message is
referred to as the sender while the one receiving the information is known as the receiver. The message
being transmitted can contain facts, thoughts, perceptions, judgments, beliefs, attitudes, commands,
and even reactions. For example, two computers connected by a communications device, such as a
modem, can share stored data, instructions, and information. These two computers can be located in
the same room or thousands of miles away from each other in two different countries.

CLASSIFYING COMPUTERS

Computers can be classified based on size and computing power. However, as technology advances,
these classifications tend to overlap as modern computers have become smaller, yet more powerful,
and relatively cheaper.

The general classifications of computers are as follows:

• Personal computer — is 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 — is 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 — is a multi-user computer capable of supporting from 10 to hundreds of users

simultaneously.

• Mainframe — is a powerful multi-user computer capable of supporting hundreds or thousands of

users simultaneously.

• Supercomputer — is an extremely fast computer that can perform millions of instructions per second.
Below is a picture of NASA's Pleiades supercomputer that has 245,536 CPU cores and a total memory of
935 TB.

Figure 1.17 NASA's Pleiades supercomputers

To compare, a computer with an Intel Core i3 processor, has only two cores for running its programs and
applications. Core 5 and i7 models usually have only four cores. Core i7 extreme processors can have six
to eight cores; however, most applications cannot use all the cores to full advantage. Thus, they do not
operate at full capacity. Imagine having more than 245,000 cores. How many applications and programs
can your computer run in a second?

Computers are also categorized into several types due to the introduction of mobile devices and the
proliferation of internet-capable devices. Specialized computers are now classified according to specific
uses. The different types of computers are as follows:

• Desktop computers — are computers designed to be placed on a desk, and are normally made up of a
few different parts, including the computer case, central processing unit

(CPU), monitor, keyboard, and mouse.

• Laptop computers — are battery-powered computer devices whose portability makes them possible
to use almost anytime, anywhere.

• Tablet computers — are hand-held computers with touch-sensitive screen for typing and navigation.

• Smartphones --- are hand-held telephones which can do things that computers can do, including
browsing and searching the internet and even playing console games.

• Wearables — include fitness trackers and smartwatches that can be worn throughout the day.

• Smart TVs — are the latest television sets that include applications present in computers. For example,
videos can be streamed from the internet directly onto the TV. The TV can also be used as a computer
monitor and gaming monitor.

DIGITAL AGE, INFORMATION AGE, AND COMPUTER AGE

Digital age, information age, and computer age, used interchangeably, capture the ubiquitous nature of
computing and the prolific use of technology in almost all aspects of human activity such that digital
interaction is a defining characteristic of human activity.

It is a period in human history characterized by the shift from traditional industry to information
technology-based economy brought by industrialization during the Industrial Revolution. The definition
of what digital means (or what information means) continues to change over time as new technologies,
user devices, and methods of interaction with other people and devices enter the domain of research,
development, and market launch.

This period is also characterized by the digital industry creating a knowledge-based society surrounded
by a high-tech global economy that exerts its influence on how the manufacturing process and the
service sector work in an efficient and convenient way.
MEDIA IN THE DIGITAL AGE

Media normally refers to the means of communication that uses unique tools to interconnect among
people. The forms of media include television, radio, cellular phones, and internet (which involves the
access and use of various social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube, among
others). In the digital age, however, media can be considered as the message, the medium, and the
messenger.

The Message

Media is considered to be the message itself for those who create and own the rights of content. The
forms of Content can be user-generated or professionally-produced. User-generated content (UGC) is a
form of content created and owned by the users of a system. UGC has grown exponentially especially
with the wide internet coverage or easy WiFi access, increased social media participation, and affordable
smart devices.

Below is one of the many examples of media tools used especially by millennials to generate content.

 Blog

Keeping a diary or a journal is a traditional method of recording one's thoughts or expressing one's
emotions through writing. With the advent of the internet, expressing one's feelings and thoughts was
given a new concept through online writing or blogging. A blog is a combination of two words—web and
log. It works the same way as pen and paper would but privacy becomes irrelevant given that a blog
post can be seen by anyone online. A person who writes blogs is called a blogger.

One of the TV personalities in the Philippines who also does blogging to further express feelings,
thoughts, and opinions is Maine Mendoza, also known as "Yaya Dub," in the Kalye Serye of the
noontime show "Eat Bulaga.' Most recently, blogs have evolved into microblogs and video blogs.
Microblogs have become popular due to the rise of Tumblr and Twitter in which users instantly share
limited content or short messages. Now, with the increasing number of YouTube viewers, people have
explored uploading their own videos ranging from their travels and products reviews to any other
random topics. Some vloggers, Youtubers, or social media influencers even make money based on the
number of views they get and on the products they feature in their video blogs.

The Medium

The medium used refers to the tool or tools used in sending a message from the source to the
destination. Traditionally, for example, professionals send messages to the audience, such as a news
anchor delivering the news on TV and/or radio. However' with the latest technologies, the so-called
social media has become an avenue for information dissemination even taking over news a sites in
bringing the latest or up-to-date content. One such example is Twitter. Users of this application can
constantly update other Twitter users about a certain topic. In this platform, twitter users can also share
other users' content (in the form of retweeting) and discuss any topic with one another. Thus, the
media, instead of just being an avenue for delivering messages, is becoming increasingly social—with
the audience themselves creating their own content and interacting with one another.

The Messenger

The messenger is the one who delivers the message. This is why broadcasters, for example, being the
messenger of news are called "media." In the digital space, however, does the "media" also refer to
social network users who create content themselves but are not professional journalists? Hence,
although the media can be the message, the medium, and the messenger, in the digital age, the
demarcation lines between them are somewhat blurry.

EVOLUTION OF MEDIA

The media has transformed itself based on two things— (l) how information is presented; and (2) how
the connection is established. Woodcut printing on cloth or on paper was used in the early 15th century.
It was in 1436 when Johannes Gutenberg started working on a printing press which used relief printing
and a molding system. Now, the modern printing press delivers messages in print, such as newspapers,
textbooks, and magazines.

In the 1800s, the telegraph was developed followed by the telephone which made the two-way
communication possible. Message sending and receiving can now be done both ways simultaneously.

At the beginning of the 1900s, broadcasting and recorded media were introduced. Radio and television
were used to send sound and video to homes and offices through electromagnetic spectrum or radio
waves. Audio (lower frequency band) or video (higher frequency band) content can be received
depending on the frequency used. Later on, a combination of both audio and video information made
the audience's viewing experience more exciting. Films and movies became popular as they catered to
larger audiences.

As communication devices also evolved and became pervasive' so did information distribution. A photo
taken using a smartphone can immediately be uploaded and shared on Facebook, Twitter' or Instagram.
Community websites such as OLX.ph, a Philippine counterpart of ebay.com, let its users buy and sell
items online. This eliminates the need for going to physical stores.

In line with this development, the audience regardless of their professions can now interact with one
another and are no longer disconnected. News sites can even get news stories for example from Twitter
or other social media sites. According to Claudine Beaumont, author from The Telegraph, one good
example of this happened on January 15, 2009, when dozens of New Yorkers sent 'tweets' about a plane
crash in the city. News about the US Airways Flight 1549 which was forced to land in the Hudson River in
Manhattan, USA immediately spread all over the country. All the plane's engine shut down when it
struck a flock of geese, minutes after takeoff from New York's LaGuardia Airport.

Figure 1.23 shows one of the first photos taken from a Twitter user, Jänis Krüms, showing the drowned
plane with survivors standing on its wings waiting for rescue. It was instantly forwarded across Twitter
and used by numerous blogs and news websites causing the TwitPic service to crash due to multiple
views. In this regard, Twitter users were able to break the news of the incident around 15 minutes
before the mainstream media have alerted the public about the crash incident.

This is a typical example of how individuals can now deliver content to everyone and connections are no
longer controlled by professionals.

Overview of Current Trends

A trend refers to something hip or popular at a certain point in time. It can be a particular style in
fashion, devices, or entertainment. A new trend may always come along to replace the old one.

Technology trends tend to change as time goes by. Following Moore's Law, technology is bound to
upgrade itself every two years. In 1965, Gordon Moore predicted that the computing power would
dramatically increase over time. But as it increases, cost is expected to proportionally go down.
Nowadays, the two-year prediction has even decreased, with releases happening less than two years, if
not, yearly. Aside from cost, sizes of hardware have also decreased in making devices, such as
smartphones, more useful and dependable.

A few years ago, people would have a cellular phone, a digital camera, a portable music player, and a
laptop with them. They would use their phones to text and make calls, the digital camera to take
pictures, and the music player to listen to music while doing their work on their laptop. Now,
smartphones are capable of doing the aforementioned activities and a lot more through applications or
"apps" made available online. The term smartphone was coined as the cellular or mobile phone has now
become smarter—it can run apps which help people perform their day-to-day activities. Apps turn
mobile devices into miniature PCs capable of browsing the web, taking down notes, and playing games,
among others. By default, smartphones come installed with basic apps such as making calls, sending text
messages, playing music, and managing schedules. As of 2017, Google Play has approximately 2.8
million apps available for Android users, whereas Apple's App Store is estimated to have 2.2 million.
These apps are not just limited to smartphones. They can be used in other mobile devices, including
tablets and, another recent trend, wearable devices.

In an article from Forbes.com, DeMers (2016) identified seven major trends in 2017.
1. IoT and smart home technology

The so-called Internet of Things (IOT) has been trending since 2016. The vision of 10T has evolved due to
the convergence of multiple technologies, including pervasive wireless communication, data analytics,
machine learning, and use of hardware technology such as sensors, microprocessors, and
microcontrollers. Controlling home appliances through a mobile phone—such as switching the lights on
and off, setting the timer for the washing machine, and controlling the television to record shows that
might be missed due to traffic—is now possible.

2. Augmented reality and virtual reality

In 2016, the release of games such as Pokémon Go and the anticipated VR headset, Oculus Rift, served
as a turning point for AR and VR technology.

3. Machine learning

Also called artificial intelligence, having machines decide for you seems to be a daunting task and would
probably make you think of robots and talking computers, similar to Iron Man's Jarvis. However, with
the recent release of Apple's iPhone X, it was not just the design that improved. The iOS' intelligent
personal assistant, Siri, has also been upgraded with enhanced learning making the use of iPhone more
efficient. Its latest features include the following:

• Face lD

The owner's face is the new password. It is a more secure way to unlock the phone and keep the data
safe.

• All Bionic

All Bionic is claimed to be the "most powerful and smartest chip ever in a smartphone," with a neutral
engine capable of up to 600 billion operations per second. A neural engine, a type of artificial
intelligence, enables computers to learn from observation.

• Wireless charging

A cable is not needed to charge the device. In its latest operating system, one can scan documents in the
notes app, edit live photos, and in the U.S., even pay friends in Messages. Siri can also translate
languages.

• Augmented Reality

AR is not just designed for fun. It is also meant for productivity and efficiency. It allows one to navigate
without looking at a map, visualize industrial equipment, and many others.

4. Automation

Through advanced technology, it is now possible to automate previously human-exclusive tasks. This is
very much evident through wearable devices such as step counters and heart rate monitors used by
health-conscious individuals. Information collected is automatically saved and stored in mobile devices
for analysis later on.

5. Big data

Big data is a term that describes large and complex volumes of data. But it is not how much data an
organization has it is what they do with it that matters. Big data can be analyzed for insights which can
help management make better decisions and come up with more effective strategic plans. Waze is an
example of an app which uses big data. The app helps users determine traffic, direction and route
estimations, and notifies users with accident alerts and road hazards, among others.

6. Physical-digital integrations

Majority of organizations nowadays are moving towards system automation. As such, they identify their
physical elements and create digital data for more efficient operation and back-up. The concept of
having a "paperless company" in which transactions, reports, and services are done using automated
systems is one such example. Not only is it deemed reliable but also environment-friendly.

7. Everything on demand

Due to the prevalence of network connectivity, it is possible to have information on demand. Music,
movies, and even drivers (e.g., Grab) are made available through the apps in a smartphone.

IMPACT OF ICT ON INDIVIDUALS, ORGANIZATIONS, AND SOCIETY

ICT brings both positive and negative effects to individuals, organizations, and society. It improves
education, access to information, and security. However, it limits personal interaction and physical
activity and poses problems in employment and security.

POSITIVE EFFECTS

 Improved access to education

There are new ways of learning such as the use of learning management system (LMS) which
implements educational enhancements such as distance learning and online tutorials virtual reality, and
interactive multimedia.

 Access to information and communication

The internet is widely used in communication. Access to it is getting better as it has become available in
almost all places such as commercial establishments and public spaces. New tools have been promoted
such as VolP phone, Instant Messaging (1M), chat (e.g., FB Messenger, Google Hangouts, Yahoo!
Messenger, etc.), video chat (e.g., Skype, FB video chat, etc.), and email. In addition, ICT has been
maximized by most individuals nowadays for leisure and entertainment such as watching movies,
playing games, or even reading news and articles, and for creating new relationships with people around
the world.
  Security

With the advancement that ICT brings, individuals and organizations can solve any security problems.
Examples of security measure on applications are: (1) the use of encryption methods to keep and
protect data from any malicious software; (2) the use of password/s for personal informati0n protection;
and (3) the development of physical security systems such as biometrics in a form of fingerprint, facial
recognition, iris (eye) recognition, and voice recognition.

NEGATIVE EFFECTS

 Reduced personal interaction and physical activity

Because of virtual communication, ironically, people are less likely to talk to or meet each other in
person. And because of the comfort of working from home and the entertainment that the internet
offers (i.e., streaming movies, playing online games, etc.), physical activity is reduced leading to health
issues such as obesity and heart disease.

 Job loss or increase in unemployment

This can be considered as one of the worst effects of ICT.

• Multiple workers being replaced and reduced by a smaller number of employees capable of doing the
same volume of tasks

• Shipping or freight services in which a certain amount is added to the operating costs for the physical
process of transporting commodities or goods

• Automation through robots or machines replacing people in the assembly line

 Security

ICT brings not only improvement but also threat to security. Data or files must always be kept secure
and safe. The internet connection must always be safeguarded from different attacks such as data
modification, identity/ IP address spoofing, password-based attacks, denial-of-service, etc. Computers
should also be protected from various forms of viruses and malware which are released almost every
day.

Ethical Issues in ICT

While some people apply ethical principles to the use of ICT others simply do not, hence the
proliferation of cyber malpractices.

The following are some of the ethical issues in ICT:

1. Plagiarism

It is an act of theft in which a person copies another person's ideas, words, or writings, etc. and pass
them off as his or her own. Those who committed such action may lead to serious legal and ethical
defilements.

2. Exploitation

It is an action in which one deals with a person dishonestly, unethically, and dishonorably, in order to
take advantage of the latter's works and/or resources. This leads to unlawful actions.

3. Libel

It can either be an insult, slur, or slander. Either written or spoken or even through actions, it may lead
to libel if the accusation is not true and without any piece of evidence.

• Software Piracy: It refers to an act of installing or copying a software into the computer in the absence
of an end-user licensing agreement (EULA), and/or producing a copy disregarding the copyrights.

CHAPTER KEY POINTS

• With the evolution of technology, people are now living in a period in which the economy is based on
information computerization. This industry that involves computers, software, and networking, among
others is called Information Technology (IT). It is a subset of Information and Communications
Technology (ICT) which pertains to the use of technology that supports activities involving not only
information such as gathering, storing, and presenting data, but also collaboration and communication.

• The computer, being the main tool or equipment in IT, has evolved in many ways from the first-
generation computer to the present fifth-generation computer.

• The power of the computer, coupled with the introduction of the internet, cannot be underestimated
with its speed, reliability and consistency, accuracy, and ability to handle communication.

• Communication and information creation and distribution have developed. Among the major trends is
the so-called Internet of Things (IOT), the expansion and application of networks and internet to
everyday objects.

• ICT, however, has both positive and negative impacts on individuals, organizations, and society.

TASKS

A. Group Activity

Prepare a 5- to 10-minute oral report about your group's assigned electronic device by answering the
following questions:

1. Is the device a part of a computer system? If yes, is it a computer peripheral? If not, how is this device
classified?
2. Where do you usually see or use this device? Do you find it useful in your daily activities? Why or why
not?

B. Individual Activity

Search online for media outlets that use two or more modes of communication with their customers.
Examples are a news program on TV and a radio broadcast over the AM frequency.

Do a comparative analysis of the types of outlets the communication network currently uses in terms of
the following:

1. Content

2. Audience reach

3. Your personal preference