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GE-5 (LIVING IN THE IT ERA)

MODULE 2 - Computers in Our Daily Life

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

1. identify the different computer network systems and the wired and wireless
connections
2. distinguish between system software and application software;
3. compare and contrast a desktop app and a mobile app in terms of content, layout,
and design; and
4. explain the impact of computers on daily life.

KEY TERMS

AI- Artificial intelligence

ATM- Asynchronous transfer mode LAN- Local area network
CAN- Campus area network MAN- Metropolitan area network
CPU- Central processing unit OS- Operating system
GAN- Global area network PAN- Personal area network
HDMI- High-definition Multimedia RPA- Robotic process automation
Interface WAN- Wide area network
IoT- Internet of Things

Address bus - is used by the CPU to specify a physical address for instructions, files,
and other devices within the computer system.
Application software -consists of programs that are designed to perform specific tasks
for users.
ASCII code - is a standard that assigns letters, numbers, and other characters within the
256 slots available in the 8-bit code.
Binary number system -is a method of representing numbers with 2 as its base and
uses only the digits 0 and 1; each successive digit represents a power of 2.
Bluetooth - uses radio waves to connect to other devices; the connection via Bluetooth
is called pairing.
Central processing unit (CPU)-is the brains of the computer in which most calculations
take place.
Computer software - is a combination of instructions, data, and programs that a
computer needs in order to do a specific task.
Control bus - is used by CPUs to communicate with other devices within the computer
system.
Data bus- can transfer data to and from the memory of a computer, or into or out of the
central processing unit (CPU)
Decimal number system - consists of ten digits from 0 to 9. These digits can be used
to represent any numeric value. The base of the decimal number system is 10. It is the
most widely used number system.
E-learning - involves the use of a computer or electronic device in delivering instruction
to students. Students and teachers can communicate with each other through online
lessons, activities, and exams.
E-commerce- helps in boosting the economy. It makes buying and selling activities
easier, faster, and more efficient.
Ethernet cable - transmits signals between a computer and a network device such as a
router, a switch, or other computers.
Fire Wire - is a type of connector that can transmit data to and from devices which have
typical high data rates, such as external hard drives.
Hexadecimal number system- includes a subscript of 16 or in most cases, appended
with the lowercase letter 'h' to denote hexadecimal notation.
High-definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) - is a connector for transmitting
audio/video data compatible with computers, projectors, and digital televisions.
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Internet of Things (loT) - is the network of physical objects or things" embedded in

electronics, software, sensors, connectivity, enabling these objects to collect and
exchange data.
Local area network (LAN)- refers to a group of computers and associated devices that
share a common communications line wireless link to a server.
Machine language-is the only language a computer is capable of understanding.
Number system -refers to the way of counting things.
Octal number system- consists of eight digits from 0 to 7 and each digit position in this
system represents a power of 8.
Personal area network (PAN) -is the interconnection of information technology devices
within the range of an individual person, normaly within the range of 10 meters.
Platform - hosts the application software installed in the system.
System bus - is a pathway composed of cables and connectors used to carry data
between the computer's peripheral devices.
Universal Serial Bus (USB) is a connection or interface that allows the computer to
communicate with system peripherals.no
Wide area network (WAN)- is a geographically distributed private telecommunications
network that interconnects multiplelocal area networks (LANs).
WiFi- uses radio waves to transmit wirelessly information across a network.
Wired communication -refers to the transmission of data over awire-based
communication technology
Wireless communication- is a type of data communication that is performed and
delivered wirelessly. This is a broad term that incorporates all procedures and forms of
connecting and communicating between two or more devices using a wireless signal
through wireless communication technologies and devices.

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 PC’s capable of browsing the web, taking down
notes, and playing among others. By default, Smartphones come installed with basic
apps such as making calls, sending text plaving music, and managing schedules. As of
2017, Google Play 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 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 (loT) has been trending since 2016. The vision
of loT 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
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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 ID
The owner’s face is the new password. It is a more secure way to unlock the phone and
keep the data safe.
-A11 Bionic
A11 Bionic is claimed to be the “most powerful and smartest chip ever in a smarphone,”
with a neural 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.
-IOS 11
In it’s latest operating system, one can scan documents in the notes app, edit lives
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 advance 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
a 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

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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 (IM),
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 sue as watching movies, playing
games, or even reading news 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 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 information protection; and (3) the development of physical
security systems such as biometrics in a form of fingerprint, a 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 (1.e., streaming movies, playing online games,
etc.), physical activity is reduced leading to health issues such 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
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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.

How Computers Work

The basic parts of a computer are the central processing uni. (CPU), memory, a
keyboard or other input device, and a screen or other output device. How does a
computer add or subtract and how can its memory remember the answers it computes?
computer does not have a human brain inside but acts in many ways as though it does
have a real one.
However, while we understand human language, thecomputer can understand
machine language. When a person types on the computer's keyboard, the human brain
identifies the letters, numbers, and characters combined to create words and sentences.
But the computer does not recognize letters as letters of the alphabet; it sees the letters
as a series of 0's and l's called the binary language.

Computer Number Systems

Humans use the decimal number system-to count, measure and compute. The
decimal number system has ten digits, such as 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9. A
computer, on the other hand, can only understand two digits-a 0 and a 1. These two
numbers play an important role in the way computers communicate with one another.
This type of number system is called the binary numbersystem, with the prefix bi, which
means 2.
There are other types of number systems, such as the octal number system
(from the prefix octa, meaning it uses 8 digits) and the hexadecimal number system
(hexa means 6; deci means 10; meaning it uses 16 digits to represent its values).
However, these special number systems are merely a way to bridge the computer's
binary language to a somewhat understandable human (decimal) language since
computer data can be complicated.

How Computers Interpret Data

With the different types of umber systems, it is important to understand how computes
interpret the letters on the keyboard through a series of 0’s and 1’s This is normally done
through number system conversion. Depending on the standard used, computer
systems convert characters from the keyboard and later display them on the monitor.
Refer to the following steps:
1. From the keyboard, pressure pads are typically found underneath each key. Upon
typing a letter, the pressure pad sends information to the CPU for processing.
2. The information is then transmitted in the form of 0's and 1's using the ASCIl code.
3 The CPU determines what character has been typed and sends the information to the
computer monitor, again tn 0's and 1's.
4. The monitor displays the information in its equivalent character this time readable and
understandable by humans.
Majority of computer systems use the American Standard Code for Information
lnterchange (ASCH) for converting characters into 0's and 1's. The AsCll code is a 7-bit
code used to represent letters numbers, and basic special characters. The uppercase
character ‘A’ as seen on the left is represented in ASCII as 0100 0001 in binary, 101 in
octal, or 41 in hexadecimal system.

LOOK FOR ASCII PRINTABLE CHARACTERS (PRESENTED IN DECIMAL,

HEXADECIMAL, AND OCTAL FORMATS) AND TRY TO ANALYZE IT.
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How Computers Communicate with One Another

Notice how the computer uses different ways to connect to certain devices. The
computer wit monitor uses a wire to Connect to the computer unit while the mouse
wirelessly connects to the laptop, etc. Depending on the situation, computers the use
different connection Figure 2.1 Complete personal desktop components methods to do
their tasks.

System bus
A Computer system, on its own, communicates though what is called a system bus. A
system bus is a pathway composed of cables and connectors used to carry data from a
computer’s peripheral devices-monitor, keyboard, mouse, etc-to the CPU and the main
memory There are three types of buses the data bus, address bus, and control bus

Data bus
A data bus can transfer data to and from the memory of a computer, or into or out of the
CPU. Examples of pieces of a flash drive to the computer's hard drive and a document
sent to the printer for printing information that traverse the data bus include files
transferred from

Address bus
The address bus is used by the CPU to specify a physical address for instructions, files,
and other devices within there computer system. For example, in a given computer unit,
there are typically 6 to 8 USB ports. The address bus is responsible is checking which of
the USB ports has a printer connected to a along with the mouse, keyboard, speakers,
and, sometimes, even external drives.

Control bus
A control bus is used by CPUs to communicate with other devices within the computer
system. As the address bus carries the location of the data being sent and the data bus
carries the actual data being processed, the control bus carries the commands or
instructions from the CPU. It also sends status signals from the devices, identifying if it is
ready or not. The typical read/write commands are identified through the control bus. For
example if one tries to save a file to a flash drive that is already removed from the
computer, the computer will notify the user with an error message saying that the folder
or drive where the file is intended to be saved 1S no longer existing.
This is because the original destination or location can no longer be sent through the
address bus because of the disconnection. Therefore, the CPU sends a halt instruction
via the control bus, stopping the data to be sent through the data bus often seen as an
error message prompt.
The amount of data sent throughout the system bus depend on the size of the bus.
Latest computer systems use a 64-bit bus; however, the majority still use a 32-bit
computing size for the computer systems. Take note, however, that the mentioned
computing size is on a hardware level. Having an operating system or software
application that is 32-bit or 64-bit is different. Again, the hardware is different from the
software. It is advised that if your computer hardware uses a 32-bit bus (hardware), use
only software programs running 32-bits. This is to avoid the hardware from overheating.
Imagine a 32-bit bus computer working double time to make up for the excess 32-bits
from a 64-bit application software. A 64-bit bus, on the other hand, can process either a
32-bit or a 64-bit software application.

How Computers Connect to Other Computers

The next step in knowing how a computer is able to connect to other devices is to
understand how a computer connects to another computer. Earlier, computer
peripherals using wired or wireless connections are mentioned. It is also similar when a
computer wants to connect to another computer-with or without wires.

Computer Network Systems

Computers are able to communicate with one another over networks. A computer
network is an interconnection of two or more computers. This interconnection gives
these computers the capability to share information and resources. There are several
types of networks, mostly depending on the number of computers in it, how they are
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used, and what type of technology is used in its connectivity. Below are some of the
computer network systems
 Personal area network (PAN) -is a type of connection which is often limited to an
individual person and his or her personal devices. Normally, these devices must be
within the range of 10 meters with each other. For example, a person traveling with a
laptop, a smartphone, and a portable printer could interconnect the devices without
having to plug anything in, using some form of wireless technology.
 Local area network (LAN)- is a connection in which a group of computers and other
devices, such as network printers, share a common communications line within a certain
area such as a building or a small campus. LANs are often found in schools and offices
to secure the organization's information. This is done through a computer server in
which user's access may be restricted to avoid unwanted users. For example, some
schools use LANs within their campuses so that students can connect to the internet to
do online research. Students are required to login their information (such as their student
ID) to connect to the internet. However, through the school's campus server, restrictions
to sites such as online games, pornographic materials, and the like are implemented.
This means that students will not be able to access these websites inside the campus.
 Wide area network (WAN) - may be less restrictive than LAN as rules and policies may
differ within its coverage. A WAN may be made of several LANS and PANs. A WAN can
also be made up of several more WANs. This is why WAN is considered synonymous to
the internet.

Methods of Communication
There are many different types of connection media that are used in contemporary
society to connect computer networks to one another. Connections are often
categorized generally into two Wired communication and Wireless communication.

>Wired communication
Different types of cables are used to connect to a give network. There are coaxial
cables, fiber-optic cables, Ethernet cables, and traditional telephone lines. These will be
discussed at length in later chapters. This chapter focuses on a stand alone computer
system and the types of wired connection that are available.
Computer systems have different connections which usually depend on the
motherboard's form factor Popular wired connections nowadays include the following:

Universal Serial Bus (USB) is a connection or interface that allows the computer to
communicate with system peripherals such as keyboard, mouse, printer, etc. as well as
other devices like digital cameras and portable fans.
FireWire It is a type of connector that can transmit data to and from devices which have
typical high data rates, such as external hard drives. The transfer speed of a FireWire is
faster than that of a USB.
Ethernet An Ethernet cable transmits signals between a computer and network devices
such as a router, switch, or other cable computers.
High-definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI) is a connector for transmitting
audio/video data which are compatible to computers, projectors, and digital HDMI
televisions.
Older computer units have connections that include the following:
VGA- The 15-pin Video Graphics Array (VGA) connector has been provided on many
video cards, computer monitors, laptop computers, and projectors. It is now slowly being
phased out in favor of the taster and more compact HDMI connector.
Serial- An RS-232 serial connection was once a standard feature of a personal
computer used for connections to modem, printer, mouse, and other peripheral devices.
Now, it has been replaced by USB connections.
Parallel
Similar to the serial connection, parallel connections were used before to connect other
computer peripherals such as printers It has also been replaced since then by the USB
connections.
PS/2 The PS/2 is a 6-pin connector used to connect the mouse and keyboard to a
computer It is color-coded to identify which peripheral will be connected to which port.
Purple is for keyboard and green is for the mouse
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Audio-Jacks- The audio jacks are the 3.5 mm jacks used for microphones (as input),
and speakers (as output). It uses color codes as well to indicate the type of input and
output lines.
Pink: Mic in
Blue: Line in
Green: Front speakers out
Black (or dark blue in some older boards):
Rear speakers out
Orange: Center/subwoofer out
Gray: Middle speakers out
These connections are now being replaced by USB and HDMI connections.

>Wireless communication
Wireless communications include microwave transmission, satellite communication,
cellular transmission and radio transmission such as WiFi connectivity. Wireless
technologies differ hugely from one another, but the most popular types are Bluetooth
and Wi-Fi. The Institute Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), a professional
technical association with members all across the globe identified standard 802.11 for
Wi-Fi and 802.15 for Bluetooth in the wireless standards.

>Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi uses radio waves to wirelessly transmit information across a network. Wi0Fi’s
signals are transmitted in frequencies of between 2.5 and 5 gigahertz (GHz), which are
higher than radio and TV signals to avoid interference. Wi-Fi is often used in schools,
companies, and business establishments among others. This is to provide network
connections to multiple users without the need for cables. Majority of Wi-Fi users use
mobile devices, such as tablets, laptops, and smartphones to connect via an access
point or Wi-Fi hotspot.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth uses radio waves to connect to other devices. The connection via Bluetooth is
called pairing. Once paired, devices are able to send and receive information provided
they are within a given range which is typically 10 meters.

How Humans Communicate with Computers

Reading a long string of 0's and 1's can be very confusing and areas in computer
systems computer hardware and computer software. Through computer software,
humans are able to "communicate" with the computer.

Computer Software
The computer software is a combination of instructions, data, and programs that the
computer needs in order to do a specific task. Another term used for computer software
is computer programs. Everything the computer does can basically be controlled through
these programs. Programs are a set of codes or instructions which are usually designed
or written by computer programmers using a specific programming language. The most
common type of programming language includes Microsoft’s C# (pronounced as ‘see-
sharp’), Sun Microsystem’s Java, and an open-source programming language, PHP
(Hypertext Preprocessor)
Programmers have developed two types of computer software-the system software and
application software. People might be more familiar with the application software as
most of the day-to-day tasks done in front of a computer involve the use of application
programs (e.g., typing a school assignment using Microsoft Word, editing a photo using
Adobe Photoshop, browsing through Facebook using Google Chrome, or listening to
music using Apple's iTunes). The system software alsocalled an operating system (OS)
is the most important software running on a computer since it manages the computer' s
memory and instructions and has the ability to control all the connected hardware and
installed software applications.
The OS allows a person to interact with the computer –from the hardware components
and peripherals to all the installed software applications and files one has stored on the
computer.

The interaction can occur in two ways:

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1. By using a command-line operating system (e.g., DOS in which the computer

responds according to the text command that is typed.
2. With a graphical user interface (GU) operating system (c.g, Windows) such as
pictures and buttons through mouse clicks and keyboard entries.

System Platforms
Desktop systems differ from mobile systems in terms of how each platform treats the
application software installed in he system A desktop or a laptop computer usually
needs an application program to run a certain application on it, or possibly multiple ones
at the same time. A typical example is that of a web browser capable ot running multiple
web sites with different applications all at the same time. In this scenario, Google
Chrome is open as the user waits for an email from a friend via Gmail, while another
browser tab has YouTube open as he or she watches video tutorials. Another browser
tab with Wikipedia open is possible as the user is also researching on different computer
peripherals. All of these websites are accessed using a single web browser. A web
browser is considered to be an application software. However, this scenario is typically
played within a desktop platform.
With today's trend leaning towards mobility, more and moremobile devices are now
capable of doing things which typical desktop computers can do. This is why companies
that develop smartphones, for example, have identified specific system software and
application software for these mobile devices (Hope, 2017).
Using a smartphone in accessing the same websites is a different experience. Instead of
using a web browser to access allthree web sites, mobile applications are used. Mobile
applications have the capacity to run directly on top of the operating system without
using web browsers. Facebook, YouTube, and Gmail are typical examples of desktop
applications that have mobile counterparts.

System Software
Two of the most popular desktop system software or OS mobile devices, Apple uses i0S
for their devices' system software. But while Microsoft is also using Windows for their
mobile devices operating system, it is not the leading mobile OS in the world, compared
to its desktop counterpart. According to the International Data Corporation (1DC), the
most popular mobile operating system as of 2016 is Android OS, acquiring 85% of the
global market (DC, 2017)

Online Applications Software

As previously discussed, application software consists of grams that are
designed to perform specific tasks for users. Specific application software products,
called software packages, are available from different vendors. Usually, these software
packages cost money although a lot of application software is now being made available
for free. Often called shareware, freeware, or public-domain software, this software can
be downloaded for free but usually with fewer capabilities compared to the ones sold.
As such, online application software is now introduced with the improved internet
speed being made available to consumers. There are various products available
including software tools that were previously identified only as computer applications.
Office productivity tools such as Microsoft Office Suite were only available offline,
but now, Microsoft has developed Microsoft Office 365 which has been made available
to students and teachers for free via their Office 365 Education. Numerous web and
mobile applications are also made available to users which oftentimes feature the same
functionalities as the offline version. Google introduced its online applications capable of
doing the same thing as Microsoft's Office Suite. Google Docs, Google Sheets, and
Google Slides are the online counterparts of MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint,
respectively. organizations, such as data collection and analysis, especially for those in
the marketing industry. PCMag.com has listed down.
Other online productivity tools are also available for available online survey
engines for 2017 and analyzed the top Campaign Monitor GetFeedback, Checkbox
Survey, Fluid Surveys, SurveyMonkey, WorldApp KeySurvey, Outside Software
eSurveysPro, SoGoSurvey, and SurveyPlanet. Survey Gizmo is the Editors' Choice
getting a 4.5 rating and is said to be best for contenders. Included in the list are Zoho
Survey, Survey Gizmo, is the Editors’ Choice getting a 4.5 rating and is said to be the
best for small to midsize businesses (Schindier, 2017) Not only can an organization
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easily disseminate its survey questions to its clients but data trends and analysis are
also automatic ally done by the tool, providing faster results.
Tomsguide.com has also listed down several popular applications available in
the App Store and google Play that can increase productivity, improve efficiency, and
provide convenience. Below are just some of the apps on their list:

1 Any.do - a scheduler and reminder notification app

2. Microsoft Office Word, Excel, and PowerPoint – available for free download in both
Android and iOs
3. WPS Office- another office productivity suite that does the same as Microsoft's Word,
Excel, and PowerPoint
4. Adobe Acrobat Reader- a PDF reader and annotation app which lets you view and
sign PDF forms
5. Microsoft Outlook - for reading emails, managing contacts, and calendar
6. Newton Mail for accessing all email accounts in one "unified inbox"
7. Forge-a mobile drawing app that allows the user to create sketches and edit photos
Lastly, people who have no IT background can now create their own blogs and websites
through online tools which provide web hosting and web content management. They
do not need to learn programming languages, although some knowledge programming
will be an advantage to further customize the we layout.
Wix.com and WordPress.com are two of the most popular website creation
tools available online. Both tools offer blogging and website content management
system (CMS). Users do not need to be programmers due to the simple and easy-to-use
design of the CMS.

How Computers Impact Everyday Life

The advent of technologies specifically the development of information and
communications technology has changed the lives of people. Computers, for example,
permeate everyday life as they are used in various fields-in schools, malls, and
hospitals, amon8 others. The following areas show how computers have made such an
impact.

Education
Today, most elementary and secondary schools (public and private) and higher
education institutions (HEIs) have computers in their classrooms. 1CT in general has
made thing and efficient for teachers, students, researchers, and school convenient
administrators.
With the use of computers, teachers can do research and enhance their teaching
materials. They can join online forums and conferences and gain new ideas and learn
from the latest research findings and trends.
Students use computers with internet access as one of their reference tools. They can
communicate and collaborate with their peers while working in their own homes.
School administrators use computers for administrative work to ensure that the entire
operation of the school runs proficiently. An access to all school documents is made
easy and always available with the use of a so-called server.
Electronic learning (e-learning) is the newest teaching methodology in which students
and teachers can communicate and collaborate with each other through online
discu5s1on of their lessons, activities, and examinations. Such examples are
Blackboard, Edmodo, Moodle, etc.

Banking
The computer has made all banking transactions around the World easier and more
secure. It manipulates the entire banking System as it includes 24-hour electronic
banking services. The services include:
Automated teller machine (ATM)
Cheque deposit
Electronic fund transfer
Direct deposit
Pay by phone system
Personal computer banking/internet banking
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Workforce Industry
Workers, researchers, and administrators benefit from ICT Computers are used to
expedite production planning and control systems, to support chain management, and to
facilitate product design in the industrial sector. Machines that are fully computer
operated are now used. Researchers use computers to gather and analyze data for
hypothetical reference while administrators use computers to manage the entire
operations of the plant or factory to detect or anticipate explicit errors or deficiencies that
transpire in the process. Some of the large industrial companies that implement ICT
include Toyota Philippines, Honda Philippines, and San Miguel Corporation.
However, the use of ICT can be perceived as a threat to assembly-line and factory
workers as robots or machines take over their jobs.

Electronic Commerce
Electronic commerce or simply e-commerce helps boost the economy. With computers,
internet, and shared software as the main tools needed, buying and selling activities are
made easier, more efficient, and faster. Customers, sellers, and suppliers all benefit
from the capabilities of ICT. Some of the known commerce markets are Zalora, Lazada,
Shopee, Metrodeal, Takatack, Amazon, OLX.ph, AirBnB, Booking.com, Agoda.com and
many others.
Customers or clients use computers to communicate with sellers. This method can save
time and cost as consumers do not have to go physically to any outlets or department
stores. Suppliers, on the other hand, use computers in keeping track of their
transactions which include the monitoring of inventory.

Hospitals
The use of computers in hospitals offers many benefits to both doctors and patients.
Hospitals are creating patients databases of health records, treatment records, and
medical records. Also, with the help of ICT, doctors use computers and various medical
applications not only for research advancement but also for faster diagnosis of patients
illnesses. Through computing and monitoring technologies, test administered in
hospitals such as blood test, urine test, brain testing, ultrasound, echocardiography,
complete blood count (CBC), mammography, bone density study, magnetic resonance
imaging (MRI), X-rays, and body scanning, among others are made possible. With the
development of databases and other applications, ICTs prevent medical errors in
particular and improve the effieciency of the health system in general.

Reference(s):
Romina R. Caoili-Tayuan & Mia V. Eleazar (2019). Living in the IT Era. C & E Publishing, Inc. 839
EDSA, South Triangle Quezon City, Philippines.
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Name: _______________________Year/Section&Class_______________Date:_____________
Instructor: CINDERELLA O. YANZON Output No. 3

Exercise Set

A. Identify what is being described in the items below.

__________1. A connection that shares a common communications line within a certain area .
__________2. Transmit signals between a computer and network devices.
__________3. Used for microphones (as input) and speaker (as output)
__________4. A type of connection that is limited to an individual person and his or her
personal devices.
__________5. A connection that allows the computer communicate with system peripherals.
__________6. A connector for transmitting audio/video data.
__________7. It is synonymous to the internet.
__________8. It uses radio waves to connect or pair to other devices.
__________9. Its signal are transmitted in frequencies of between 2.5 and 5 gigahertz.
__________10. Connector that transmit data to and from devices which have typical high data
rates.

B. Differentiate System software and Application software.

______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________

C. Search online for an application that has both a web version and a mobile version. Compare
and contrast the versions in terms of content, layout, and design.

D. Imagine life without computers. How is it like? Now imagine the future with everything going
computerized or digital. How is it like?
Create a meme showing either of the two scenarios. A group representative should post it on
facebook. Let your instructor and classmates comment or react on it.