SAINT JOHN PAUL II COLLEGE, UYO

2022/2023 ACADEMIC SESSION

LESSON NOTE

SUBJECT: SOCIAL STUDIES THIRD TERM CLASS: JS2

WEEK FOUR (4)

INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY (ICT)

Meaning of Information and Communication Technology (ICT)

Information and communication technology popular known as ICT refers to the body of
knowledge that involves the use of a system to process, store and transfer information.
Communication is very key aspect of human life that involves exchange of information between
people. Moreso, with the invention of technology, communication in modern times has been
made easier, faster and effective. This technology gave rise to the invention of telephone in
1876 by Alexander Graham Bell, radio in 1895 by Guglielmo Marlconu, television in 1926 by
John Logics and Vladimor, computer in 1944 by Edward Aiken, mobile phone or GSM in
1940's and the internet technology in 1960's by Leonardo Kleinrock and J C R Licklider.

Meaning of Computer

A computer is an electronic device machine that captures data, import, stores and
process to bring out results (information) as output. It is an electronic machine that follows
instructions to accept input, process the inputs and produce information as output. A computer
can handle large volumes of information such as calculation, word processing, image analysis,
etc. There are three main components of a computing device.

i. Input device: these are devices that enable one enter data into a computer.
Examples include keyboard, mouse, scanners, etc.

ii. Output device: these are devices the enable the computer user to get
feedback of his processing example include monitor printer see the
speakers etc.

iii. Central processing unit (CPU): this is the main computer that is
involved in processing the inputs to produce or generate an output: there
 are three main classes of computer namely mainframe computer, mini-
computer personal or macro computer. Other types include laptop
computer, notebook computer, palmtop computers, etc.

Uses of a Computer

1. The computer is used in storing and retrieving information.

2. Computers are also used to produce documents like reports letters memos and
other word processing functions etc.

3. It is also used for calculating purposes such as calculating budget finance reports
etc.

4. The computer is can be used for teaching and learning processes.

5. Computers are used to create illustrations designs, graphics, animations etc.

6. Computers are also used to detect theft in banking and other financial
transactions.

7. Computers provide the basics foundation for robotics.

8. Computers are also used for internet and email services.

9. Computer and computing services are used in all aspects of life today.

Modern Forms of ICT

These include:
i. The internet: is a collection of computer networks that are linked together for the
primary purpose of sharing and exchanging information. The internet is used to
communicate with family members, friends and business partners in different parts
of the world. It is also useful for any given field of life such as politics, business,
economics, socials, etc. The internet is useful for job searching, online shopping,
network marketing and banking transactions etc.

ii. Electronic mail

iii. Electronic banking,

iv. Robotics etc.

Advantages of Information and Communication Technology

 1. Information and communication technology is a very fast means of sending
messages and therefore saves time.

2. The invention of computers has helped in handling large volumes of data at a

short amount of time.

3. ICT has turned the world into a global village through is super global
interaction services.

4. ICT has helped to promote businesses through advertisements of products and

networking.

5. ICT serves as a means of entertainment through its programs and sports

games, movies, music, etc.

6. ICT is also of great benefit to students by providing information and data in

various fields of study.

Disadvantages of Information and Communication Technology

1. ICT in recent times has contributed in breaking of family ties and how people
stay together. This is because individuals rather spend long hours with our
computers than family members.

2. ICT distract students from reading their books as most of them engage in other
entertainment ventures rather than their studies.

3. ICT can cause health problems has long-term exposure to technological

products may lead to blurred vision, sleeplessness, cancer, etc.

4. ICT exposes people’s bank account to fraud and other cybercrime and
criminal activities.

5. ICT has contributed to the decay in the moral fabric of the society through
exposing young people to immoral films and pictures and other social content
not suitable for young minds.