AL ICT Basic Concepts of ICT

Sri Lanka Schools  AL ICT Basic Concepts of ICT (ICT Grade 12 Lesson 1 ). After studying this chapter, you will be able to understand the following:

• Investigates the basic building blocks of information and their characteristics
• Investigates the need for technology to create, disseminate and
• Formulates an abstract model of information creation and evaluates its compliance with ICT
• Selects and classifies the basic components of a computer system
• Analyses the activities of data processing
• Investigates the application of ICT in different domains
• Evaluates the impact of ICT on the society

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🔴  Learning Video Option 1 – Sinhala Medium – Play List Included 15 Videos with Question discussion

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AL ICT Basic Concepts of ICT Introduction

In today’s modern world, information and communication technology (ICT) plays a crucial role in various aspects of our lives. From data management to decision-making, ICT has become an essential tool in our daily routines. This article aims to delve into the fundamental concepts of ICT, emphasizing the life cycle of data, the difference between data and information, the applicability of the information in day-to-day life, the drawbacks of manual methods, and the emergence of the ICT era. By understanding these concepts, we can grasp the significance of ICT and its impact on different domains.

Life Cycle of Data

Data is the foundation of information. It goes through a life cycle that encompasses the creation, management, and removal of obsolete data. Let’s explore each stage in detail:

Data Creation

Data creation refers to the process of generating or collecting raw information. It can come from various sources such as surveys, sensors, or manual input. Collecting accurate and relevant data is crucial for deriving valuable information.

Data Management

Once data is created, it needs to be organized, stored, and processed efficiently. Data management involves tasks like data classification, storage, retrieval, and analysis. Proper management ensures data integrity and accessibility when needed.

Removal of Obsolete Data

Data has a limited lifespan. As new information emerges, outdated or obsolete data must be identified and removed to maintain data quality. Regular data cleansing processes help in keeping the dataset up-to-date and relevant.

Data vs. Information

While data and information are often used interchangeably, they have distinct characteristics and purposes.

Definition of Information

Information refers to data that has been processed, organized, and presented in a meaningful way. It is data that carries value and aids in decision-making, understanding, and problem-solving.

Characteristics of Valuable Information

Valuable information possesses specific characteristics that make it reliable and useful:

• Timeliness: Information should be up-to-date, reflecting the latest data available.
• Accuracy: Information must be precise and free from errors or inconsistencies.
• Presented within the Context: Information should be provided in the appropriate context to ensure proper understanding.
• Enhanced Understandability: Information should be presented in a clear and understandable manner, catering to the intended audience.
• Less Uncertainty: Reliable information helps reduce uncertainty and enables confident decision-making.

The Need to Handle Large Volumes and Other Complexities of Data

In today’s digital age, the volume and complexity of data have grown exponentially. ICT provides the tools and techniques to manage and analyze massive datasets efficiently. Handling large volumes of data requires robust infrastructure and specialized software to extract meaningful insights.

Applicability of Information in Day-to-Day Life

Information derived from data has widespread applicability in various domains, including:

• Decision Making: Information aids individuals and organizations in making informed decisions based on accurate insights and analysis.
• Policy Making: Governments rely on information to formulate effective policies and strategies for the betterment of society.
• Predictions: Forecasting models and data analysis techniques enable predictions in areas such as weather, stock markets, and social trends.
• Planning, Scheduling, and Monitoring: Information helps in planning and scheduling activities and monitoring progress toward achieving desired goals.

Drawbacks of Manual Methods in Manipulating Data and Information

While manual methods were prevalent in the past, they suffer from several limitations and drawbacks:

• Inconsistency and Duplication in Data: Manual data manipulation increases the risk of inconsistencies and duplicate entries, leading to data quality issues.
• Room for Errors: Human errors can occur during manual data entry, processing, or analysis, compromising the accuracy of information.
• Human Errors and Delay in Processing: Manual methods are slower compared to automated processes, resulting in delays and inefficiencies.
• Lack of Sharing Information and Reduced Customer Services: Manual systems often lack efficient mechanisms for sharing information, hindering collaboration and reducing the quality of customer services.

Infeasibility of Applying Manual Methods Where They Can Be Harmful to Humans

Certain tasks are too complex, risky, or time-consuming for manual execution. Manual methods may also pose safety hazards or involve repetitive tasks that can lead to physical strain or mental fatigue. This highlights the need for ICT to take over such tasks, ensuring efficiency, accuracy, and human well-being.

The Emergence of the ICT Era

The advancement of information and communication technology has revolutionized data manipulation and information sharing. Here are some key developments in the ICT era:

• Use of IT to Overcome the Drawbacks of Manual Methods of Data Manipulation: ICT has introduced automated systems and software solutions to streamline data processing, storage, and retrieval.
• Usage of Information in Various Domains: ICT has expanded the usage of information in domains such as education, healthcare, agriculture, business, engineering, tourism, media, journalism, and law enforcement.
• Availability of Technologies Related to Information Retrieval and Sharing: ICT has introduced tools and technologies that enable efficient retrieval, processing, and sharing of information.
• Development of Computer Networks, the Internet, and WWW: The widespread availability of computer networks, the Internet, and the World Wide Web has transformed the way information is accessed and shared.
• Development of Mobile Communication, Mobile Computing, and Cloud Computing: Mobile technologies and cloud computing have made information accessible anytime, anywhere, and on various devices.

Abstract Model of Information Creation

The creation of information follows an abstract model of input, process, and output:

1. Input: Data is collected or generated from various sources.
2. Process: Data undergoes processing, including organization, analysis, and transformation.
3. Output: Processed data is presented in a meaningful format, providing valuable information to users.

This model is highly relevant to computer and ICT systems, as they facilitate the input, process, and output stages efficiently.

Its Appropriateness to Computer and ICT

The abstract model aligns perfectly with computer and ICT systems, as they enable each stage:

• Hardware: Computers and ICT infrastructure provide the necessary hardware components for data input, processing, storage, and output.
• Software: Specialized software programs enable efficient data processing, manipulation, and transformation.
• Human Operators: Despite automation, human operators still play a vital role in managing and overseeing information systems.

Steps in Data Processing

Data processing involves a series of steps that ensure the transformation of raw data into meaningful information:

1. Data Gathering: Collecting data from various sources using different methods.
2. Data Validation: Verifying the accuracy and integrity of collected data.
3. Data Processing: Analyzing and transforming the data to extract valuable insights.
4. Data Output: Presenting the processed data in a format suitable for user consumption.
5. Data Storage: Storing data for future reference or further processing.

Data Gathering Methods

Data can be gathered through various methods, including:

• Manual Methods: Traditional data collection techniques involving manual input, surveys, or observations.
• Semi-automated and Automated Methods: Leveraging technology like optical mark recognition (OMR), optical character recognition (OCR), magnetic ink character recognition (MICR), card/tape readers, bar code readers, sensors, and loggers to automate data collection.

Data Validation Methods

To ensure data quality, validation methods are employed:

• Data Type Check: Verifying that the data is of the correct format and type.
• Presence Check: Ensuring that all required data fields are filled.
• Range Check: Validating that the data falls within an acceptable range or criteria.

Modes of Data Input

Data can be inputted through different modes:

• Direct and Remote: Direct data input involves manual or automated entry, while remote input involves capturing data from external sources or devices.
• Online and Offline: Online data input refers to real-time data entry and processing, while offline input involves collecting data for later processing.

Data Processing

Data processing can be categorized into two main types:

• Batch Processing: Processing data in batches or groups, usually done offline or at specific intervals.
• Real-time Processing: Processing data immediately as it arrives, allowing for instantaneous analysis and response.

Output Methods

Processed data can be presented to the user or stored for further processing:

• Direct Presentation to the User: Displaying the information in a visual or readable format for immediate consumption.
• Storing for Further Processing: Archiving the data for future analysis, reporting, or integration into other systems.

Storage Methods

Data storage can be classified based on location and duration:

• Local and Remote Storage (Cloud): Storing data on local storage devices or leveraging cloud-based storage services for accessibility and scalability.
• Short and Long-term Storage: Data can be stored temporarily for immediate retrieval or stored for extended periods for historical purposes.

Application of ICT in Various Domains

ICT has made a significant impact on numerous domains, including:

• Education: ICT enhances learning experiences, provides access to online resources, and facilitates distance education.
• Healthcare: ICT improves patient care through electronic health records, telemedicine, and medical research.
• Agriculture: ICT helps optimize farming practices, monitor crop conditions, and manage supply chains.
• Business and Finance: ICT enables efficient data management, financial transactions, and online commerce.
• Engineering: ICT aids in the design, simulation, and automation of engineering processes.
• Tourism: ICT enhances tourism experiences, provides online booking systems, and enables destination marketing.
• Media and Journalism: ICT revolutionizes journalism through online news platforms, social media, and multimedia content creation.
• Law Enforcement: ICT supports crime analysis, surveillance systems, and digital evidence management.

Benefits and Issues Caused by ICT

While ICT offers numerous benefits, it also raises certain issues that need to be addressed:

Benefits Caused by ICT

• Social Benefits: ICT enhances connectivity, promotes global communication, and fosters social interactions.
• Economic Benefits: ICT drives economic growth, creates job opportunities, and improves productivity.

Issues Caused by ICT

• Social: ICT can lead to social challenges like privacy concerns, cyberbullying, and information overload.
• Economical: ICT can contribute to job displacement and inequality, affecting certain industries and communities.
• Environmental: The production and disposal of ICT devices can have adverse environmental impacts.
• Ethical: ICT raises ethical concerns regarding data privacy, artificial intelligence, and autonomous systems.
• Legal: ICT necessitates legal frameworks for intellectual property, cybersecurity, and digital rights.
• Privacy: ICT poses privacy risks due to the collection and use of personal data.
• Digital Divide: The digital divide refers to the disparity in access to and utilization of ICT resources among different populations.

Confidentiality

Maintaining confidentiality is crucial in the digital age, as unauthorized access to sensitive information can lead to serious consequences.

Stealing/Phishing

Phishing attacks aim to deceive individuals into providing their sensitive information, such as passwords or financial details, through fraudulent means.

Protecting Personal Data

Protecting personal data involves implementing security measures such as encryption, firewalls, and access controls to safeguard sensitive information from unauthorized access.

Conclusion

The basic concepts of ICT provide a foundation for understanding the importance and impact of technology in today’s world. The life cycle of data, the distinction between data and information, and the applicability of the information in various domains showcase the significance of ICT in enhancing decision-making, efficiency, and productivity. While there are challenges and concerns associated with ICT, addressing them through responsible practices, regulations, and ethical frameworks will ensure the continued advancement and positive impact of ICT in our society.

External Links

Types of information technology jobs