UNIT 26: INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTING

1. Meaning of Computing

Computing refers to the use of computers and digital devices to input, process, store and output information. In education, computing helps teachers prepare lessons, store learners’ records, communicate information, and enhance teaching and learning.

A computer system consists of hardware, software and liveware (users).

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2. Computer Parts (Components of a Computer System)

A. Hardware

Hardware refers to the physical parts of the computer that can be seen and touched.

Examples include:

• System unit (CPU)

• Monitor

• Keyboard

• Mouse

• Printer

• Scanner

• Speakers

• Flash drives

• Hard disk

Types of Hardware

i. Input Devices

Used to enter data into the computer.

Examples:

• Keyboard

• Mouse

• Scanner

• Microphone

• Webcam

ii. Output Devices

Used to display results.

Examples:

• Monitor

• Printer

• Speakers

• Projector

iii. Processing Devices

Used to process information.

Example:

• Central Processing Unit (CPU)

iv. Storage Devices

Used to store data.

Examples:

• Hard disk

• Flash drive

• CD/DVD

• Memory card

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B. Software

Software refers to programs that tell the computer what to do.

Types of software:

1. System Software
   Controls the computer system.
   Example: Windows, Linux

2. Application Software
   Used for specific tasks.
   Examples:

• Microsoft Word

• Excel

• PowerPoint

• Paint

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C. Liveware

Liveware refers to the human users of the computer.

Examples:

• Teachers

• Students

• ICT technicians

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3. Desktop Operations

The desktop is the main screen displayed after a computer starts.

Important desktop features include:

• Icons

• Taskbar

• Start Menu

• Background (wallpaper)

• Recycle Bin

Mouse Operations

• Left click – selects an item

• Double click – opens a file or program

• Right click – displays shortcut menu

• Dragging – moving items

• Scroll wheel – moves page up or down

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4. Files and Folders

A file is a document or piece of information stored on a computer.

Examples:

• Word document

• Picture

• Video

A folder is a container used to organize files.

Operations on files and folders:

• Create

• Rename

• Copy

• Paste

• Delete

• Restore from Recycle Bin

• Permanent delete

Teachers use folders to organize lesson notes, exam questions and learners’ records.

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5. Data and Data Types

Data refers to raw facts collected for processing.

Examples:

• Names of pupils

• Marks

• Ages

Types of Data

• Integer – whole numbers (e.g., 5)

• Float/Double – decimal numbers (e.g., 3.5)

• Character – single letter (A)

• String – group of characters (Ama)

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6. Sources of Data

• Questionnaires

• Observation

• Interviews

• Internet

• SMS

• Emails

• Bluetooth

• Phone calls

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7. Communication Tools

These tools help in sending and receiving information.

Examples:

• Email

• SMS

• WhatsApp

• Skype

• Bluetooth

• Radio

• Fax

Teachers use communication tools to share assignments, communicate with parents, and collaborate with colleagues.

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UNIT 27: WORD PROCESSING AND PRESENTATION

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1. Microsoft Word (Word Processing)

Word processing is the use of software to create, edit, format and print documents.

Microsoft Word is commonly used in schools.

Basic Features of MS Word

• File menu (New, Open, Save, Print)

• Insert Ribbon (pictures, tables, shapes)

• Design Ribbon

• Layout Ribbon

• Font tools (bold, italic, underline)

• Paragraph alignment

Teachers use MS Word to prepare:

• Lesson notes

• Examination papers

• Letters

• Reports

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2. PowerPoint Presentation

PowerPoint is used to create slide presentations.

Uses of PowerPoint in teaching:

• Display lesson content

• Show pictures and videos

• Present group work

Basic PowerPoint Operations

• Creating slides

• Inserting text, images and shapes

• Applying themes and designs

• Running slide shows

A good presentation should:

• Have clear fonts

• Contain simple points

• Use pictures where necessary

• Avoid overcrowding slides

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UNIT 28: INTERNET AND SAFETY

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1. Internet Services

The Internet is a global network that allows computers to share information.

Services provided by the internet include:

• Email

• Browsing websites

• Online learning

• Social media

• Video conferencing

• File downloading

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2. Web Browsers

A web browser is software used to access websites.

Examples:

• Google Chrome

• Mozilla Firefox

• Microsoft Edge

Parts of a browser:

• Address bar

• Status bar

• Back and forward buttons

• Refresh button

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3. Health and Safety in ICT

Health hazards associated with ICT use include:

• Eye strain

• Back pain

• Neck pain

• Fatigue

• Headaches

Safety Measures

• Sit upright while using computer

• Take breaks regularly

• Ensure good lighting

• Keep safe distance from monitor

• Avoid long screen time

• Wash hands after computer use

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Classroom Safety Rules

• Do not eat or drink near computers

• Handle devices carefully

• Switch off computers after use

• Report faults immediately

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