Chapter 3 - ICT (Information Commmunication Technology - Part I

Chapter 3: ICT (Information and Communication Technology) – Part I

Chapter 3: ICT (Information and Communication Technology) – Part I

1. Role and Importance of ICT

ICT (Information and Communication Technology) refers to technologies that provide access to information and facilitate communication. It includes the internet, wireless networks, mobile phones, and other communication mediums.

Importance in Different Fields:

a. Education

ICT has revolutionized education through the use of smartboards, e-learning platforms, YouTube tutorials, and online courses (like BYJU'S, Khan Academy). It greatly aids in distance learning and interactive education.

Example: The NCERT ePathshala app provides access to digital textbooks and educational resources.

b. Virtual Classroom

Virtual classrooms enable real-time teaching and learning using tools like Google Meet, Zoom, or Microsoft Teams. Students and teachers can interact seamlessly from remote locations, making education accessible regardless of geographical barriers.

c. Video Conferencing

Widely used for webinars, group discussions, and interviews, video conferencing tools save significant travel time and costs for businesses and individuals alike.

Example: Popular platforms include Zoom and Google Meet.

d. Online Examination

Online examinations are conducted through platforms like CBSE DigiLocker, Google Forms, or advanced proctored systems. This method saves paper, offers quick result processing, and provides a secure environment for assessments.

2. ICT Tools

ICT Tool Explanation Example
Mobile Phone Used for communication, internet access, and various applications. Calling, WhatsApp
Tablet Portable device ideal for reading, writing, and learning. eBooks, videos
Radio Used for mass audio communication and education. All India Radio
Television Used for visual learning, news broadcasting, and entertainment. DD National, Educational TV
E-mail Electronic mail used to send messages and files over the internet. Gmail, Yahoo Mail

3. What is a Mobile App?

Definition: A mobile app is a software application designed to run on a smartphone or tablet.

Common Mobile Apps:

App Name Function
Phone Make/receive calls
Messages Send/receive SMS
Email Access mail accounts
Calendar Track dates/events
Clock Alarm, stopwatch, time zones
Photos View/store images
Maps Navigation and location tracking
Web Browser Access websites (Chrome, Safari)
Music Listen to songs (Spotify, JioSaavn)
Camera Click and record photos/videos

4. Internet and IT Applications

Internet:

A global network that connects millions of computers, enabling worldwide information exchange and communication.

IT Applications:

  • E-Governance: Online services provided by the government, making public services accessible and efficient. Examples include Aadhaar and PAN applications.
  • Online Shopping: Platforms that allow users to purchase products and services over the internet, offering convenience and a wide selection. Examples: Amazon, Flipkart.
  • Banking: Digital services that enable users to manage their bank accounts, transfer funds, and pay bills online. Examples: Net banking, UPI apps.
  • Education: Online courses, virtual classes, and test preparation apps that facilitate learning and skill development from anywhere.

5. Social Media

Definition: Social media platforms are online environments where people create, share, and exchange information and content, fostering virtual communities and networks.

Platform Use Example
Twitter Share short messages (tweets) and get real-time news updates. News updates, public discussions
Facebook Social networking, joining groups, sharing photos and updates. Personal and professional networking
YouTube Video sharing, educational content, entertainment. Study channels, vlogs
WhatsApp Instant messaging, voice/video calls, group chats. School updates, family communication

6. Computer

Definition: A computer is an electronic machine that processes data to produce useful output.

  • It comprises both hardware (physical components) and software (programs and operating systems).
  • It operates on an input, process, output model, where data is received, manipulated, and then presented as meaningful information.
  • Examples include Desktop computers and Laptops.

7. CPU – Central Processing Unit

The CPU, often called the "brain" of the computer, performs most of the processing inside the computer.

Functional Units:

Unit Function
ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit) Performs all arithmetic (addition, subtraction, etc.) and logical operations (comparisons).
Control Unit Manages and coordinates the flow of data and instructions within the computer system.
Memory Unit Temporarily stores data and instructions that the CPU needs to access quickly.

8. Components of a Computer System

Input Devices:

  • Keyboard: Used to type text and commands into the computer.
  • Mouse: A pointing device used to control an on-screen cursor and select items.
  • Joystick: Primarily used for gaming, allowing directional input.
  • Scanner: Converts physical documents or images into digital files.
  • Optical Mark Reader (OMR): Reads pre-marked data, commonly used in competitive exams.
  • MICR (Magnetic Ink Character Reader): Used by banks to read information on cheques printed with magnetic ink.
  • Light Pen: Allows users to draw directly on a computer screen.
  • Barcode Reader: Scans and decodes barcodes to identify products.
  • Microphone: Captures audio input, such as voice.
  • Digital Camera: Captures still images and videos in digital format.
  • Web Camera: Used for live video input, often for video conferencing.

Output Devices (examples):

  • Monitor: Displays visual output from the computer.
  • Printer: Produces hard copies of digital documents.
  • Speakers: Produce audio output.

9. Memory & Storage Devices

Memory Types:

Type Description Example
Primary Memory Temporary and fast storage, directly accessible by the CPU. RAM, ROM
Secondary Storage Permanent storage for long-term data retention, slower than primary. Hard Disk, SSD, Pen Drive
Tertiary/Backup Storage Used for backing up data and archiving. Cloud storage, External HDD

Examples:

  • RAM (Random Access Memory): Acts as the computer's temporary working memory, storing data and programs currently in use.
  • ROM (Read-Only Memory): Stores essential startup programs and firmware that do not change.
  • Hard Disk Drive (HDD) / Solid State Drive (SSD): Primary long-term storage for the operating system, software applications, and user files.
  • Pen Drive/CD/DVD/Memory Card: Portable storage devices used for transferring and backing up files.
  • Cloud Storage: Online storage solutions like Google Drive and Dropbox that allow access to data from any internet-connected device.

Q & A

🟦 A. One-Word/Fill in the Blanks/Dash-Type Questions

  • ICT stands for Information and Communication Technology.
    True
  • A device used for scanning printed documents: Scanner.
    True
  • WhatsApp is an example of a ____________ app.
    Messaging
  • ALU stands for → Arithmetic Logic Unit
    True
  • CPU is also known as the ____________ of the computer.
    Brain
  • ____________ is used for short text-based messages in social media.
    Twitter
  • A portable storage device is called → Pen Drive
    True
  • ____________ memory stores data temporarily.
    RAM
  • The unit that controls all operations of the computer is the ____________.
    Control Unit
  • Gmail is an example of ____________ service.
    Email

🟦 B. Short Answer Type Questions

  • What is ICT?
  • Give two examples of ICT tools.
  • What is the full form of CPU?
  • Name any two input devices.
  • What is the function of ALU?
  • Mention two uses of the Internet in daily life.
  • What is e-mail?
  • Name any two mobile apps used for communication.
  • What does MICR stand for?
  • What is the use of OMR?

🟦 C. Explanation Type Questions

  • Explain the role of ICT in education.
  • What is a virtual classroom?
  • Describe any three input devices.
  • Explain the three main components of CPU.
  • What are mobile apps? Give examples.
  • Explain the importance of social media in communication.
  • Differentiate between RAM and ROM.

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