Module 1: Impact of Digital Technology
What is a BYOD policy?
A bring your own device policy (BYOD) is a policy that enables employees to use their personal devices to conduct business.
What is a computer?
A computer is an electronic device, operating under the control of instructions stored in its own memory, that can accept data, process the data to produce information, and store the information for future use.
What is a digital citizen?
A digital citizen is a person familiar with how to use technology to become an educated and productive member of the digital world.
What is a kiosk?
A freestanding booth usually placed in a public area that can contain a display device used to show information to the public or event attendees. An example of kiosks being used are in hotels and airports to check in for a flight or room. Healthcare providers also use kiosks for patients to check in and enter information, such as their insurance card number.
What is a microprocessor?
A microprocessor is considered the "brains" of a computer. It is a chip that contains a central processing unit. Microprocessors were even faster, smaller, and less expensive than integrated circuits. The microprocessor was introduced in 1971 by Ted Hoff and a team of engineers at Intel and IBM.
What is a screen reader?
A screen reader is a type of technology that uses audio output to describe the contents of a screen. Screen readers can read aloud webpages and documents or provide narration of the computer or device's actions.
What are some ways AI and other technologies mimic human action?
AI and other technologies that mimic human action use some of the same processes that humans do such as the process used to answer a question or make a decision based on an observation. The human brain uses it's senses to prompt a person to use their past experiences, knowledge base, and visual and other sensory clues to come up with a response. Computers learn from past interactions to predict likely outcomes or responses. They use databases and Internet searches to come up with answers to questions. Cameras can read faces and analyze voices to recognize users.
What capabilities do artificial intelligence (AI) have?
AI has a variety of capabilities, such as speech recognition, virtual reality, logical reasoning, and creative responses. Computers with AI can collect information to make decisions, reach conclusions, and combine information in new ways, which is a form of learning. Computers with AI use machine intelligence rather than human intelligence to make decisions. The goal in creating AI devices is to minimize the gap between what a machine can do and what a human can do. Programmers train the computer to act when presented with certain scenarios by instructing the computer that "if X happens, then do Y."
What came after Apple's first generation of personal computers?
After Apple introduced its first generation of computers, IBM followed in 1981, introducing its own personal computer. Other manufacturers also started making similar machines, and the market grew. Since 1981, the number of PCs in use has grown to the billions. However, many people today use tablets and smartphones in addition to or instead of PCs.
What is alternative text? (Alt text)
Alternative text is descriptive text added to an object. An example of alternative text a picture or drawing. A screen reader will read the alt text out loud so that the user understands the image and its purpose. Webpages and documents should include alt text for all images. Alt text can be as simple as the name of a famous individual shown in a photograph, or more complex, such as interpreting the results of a chart or graph. Productivity applications such as Microsoft Office and webpage creation apps prompt users to add alt text, and sometimes provide suggested alt text content.
What are some alternative uses of VR technology outside of gaming?
Alternative uses of VR are used in science and medicine for training and research. For example, medical students can use VR to practice their emergency medicine skills. NASA uses VR to simulate space flight and the environments of other planets. Other commercial uses include enabling potential home buyers to move through a home's various rooms, or construction companies to show a preview of the completed building.
How do VR developers use AI?
Although VR developers work mostly with digital graphics and animation, they also use AI when creating virtual creatures that make decisions and change their behavior based on interactions with others. A VR developer can create an entire 3-D environment that contains infinite space and depth.
What is an Embedded computer?
An embedded computer is a computer that functions as one component in a larger product, and which has a specific purpose.
What is an intelligent classroom?
An intelligent classroom in which technology is used to facilitate learning and communication.
What is an intelligent workplace?
An intelligent workplace uses technology to enable workers to connect to the company's network, communicate with each other, use productivity software and apps, meet via web conferencing, and more. Some companies provide employees with computers and devices that come with the necessary software and apps, network connectivity, and security.
What is Artificial Intelligence? (AI)
Artificial intelligence is the technological use of logic and prior experience to simulate human intelligence.
What are assistive technologies used for?
Assistive technologies are used to help people with disabilities to use technology.
What are audio books?
Audio books are books that are read out loud to the user instead of the user reading on a printed page or on the screen.
What is Augmented Reality? (AR)
Augmented reality is a type of virtual reality that uses an image of an actual place or thing and adds digital information to it. A photo of a location overlaid with information about places of interest or a football broadcast that shows a first-down marker are examples of AR.
How do ATMs use IoT technology?
Automated teller machines (ATMs) use IoT technology to process ATM cards to withdraw cash, deposit checks, and interact with bank accounts.
What is big data?
Big data refers to collections of data that have become so large that traditional means of analysis or processing are ineffective. Big data involves numerous difficult challenges, including collection, storage, analysis, mining, transfer, distribution, and results presentation.
What is computer aided manufacturing? CAM
CAM is manufacturing used by manufacturers to streamline production and ship products more quickly. With CAM, robots perform work that is too dangerous, detailed, or monotonous for people.
What does chip-and-pin technology refer to?
Chip and pin technology refers to an improvement in card technology that stores data on an embedded chip instead of a magnetic stripe.
What do kind of software do companies use to conduct business?
Companies use online collaborative productivity software to allow employees to share documents such as reports or spreadsheets and to make edits or comments.
How have computers evolved over the years?
Computers have evolved into connected devices that can share data using the Internet or wireless networks. They are smaller, faster, and have far greater capabilities than previous computers. A smartphone today has more computing power than the computer that guided the Apollo mission to the moon in 1969.
Why do critics claim that embedded computer technology in vehicles can be harmful?
Critics of vehicle technology claim that embedded computer technology can provide drivers with a false sense of security. If a driver relies on a sensor while backing up, parking, or changing lanes, they may miss other obstructions that can cause a crash. Reliance on electronic stability control may cause a driver to drive faster than conditions allow, or to pay less attention to the distance between your vehicle and others.
What is data?
Data consists of raw facts, such as text or numbers
What have developments in big data made possible?
Developments in Big Data have made it possible to efficiently access, store, and process the mountain of data reported by sensors. Mobile service providers offer connectivity to a variety of devices so that transmitting and receiving data can take place quickly.
What are digital assistants?
Digital assistants are applications that use natural language processing to respond to verbal commands or questions. It uses search technology to provide answers or perform a task, such as adding an item to a grocery list. An example of popular digital assistants are Amazon's Alexa or Apple's Siri.
What is digital literacy?
Digital literacy refers to person having a current knowledge and understanding of computers, mobile devices, the web, and related technologies
Why is it important to be digitally literate?
Digitally literacy is essential in a today's day and age in order to acquire a job, as well as using and contributing to global communications, and participating effectively in the international community.
What are the effects of electronic waste? How can you help prevent these effects?
Electronic waste and trash has a negative effect on the environment where it is discarded. You can avoid electronic waste by not replacing devices every time a new version comes out, and recycling devices and products such as ink and toner when they no longer provide value.
What does embedded computer technology contribute to the world?
Embedded computer technology enables computers and devices to connect with one another over the Internet using IoT. Embedded computers are everywhere. People commonly use embedded computers multiple times a day, often without being aware of it.
What are embedded computers made to do?
Embedded computers are made to perform a specific function based on the requirements of the product in which they reside. An example of an embedded computer would be that of which resides in a printer and monitors the ink levels, detects paper jams, and determines if the printer is out of paper.
What is enterprise computing?
Enterprise computing refers to the use of technology by a company's employees to meet the needs of a large business.
What are graphic organizers?
Graphic organizers are a form of software that enables a user to create an outline or structure of information.
What is green computing?
Green computing is a practice that involves reducing electricity consumed and environmental waste generated when using computers, mobile devices, and related technologies.
What are green computing practices?
Green computing practices are practices used to help reduce the impact of electronic waste on the planet.
What is hardware?
Hardware refers to the device itself and its components, such as wires, cases, switches, and electronic circuits.
How can healthcare providers use IoT?
Healthcare providers can use IoT to connect to a patient's wearable blood pressure or glucose monitor, send prescription updates and changes to a pharmacy, and alert the patient of the prescription. They can also use it to track and store data provided by wearable monitors to determine necessary follow-up care and end the patient reminders about upcoming appointments or tests .The uses of IoT are expanding rapidly, and connected devices continue to impact and enhance business practices at all levels.
What options do hearing impaired users have in the world of technology?
Hearing impaired users can instruct programs or apps to display words or other visual clues instead of sounds, such as for a notification from an app. Captioning software displays scrolling text for dialogue in a video. Cameras can interpret sign language gestures into text.
What actions are sometimes necessary for a user to take in order for natural language processing software to work most effectively?
In order for natural language processing software to work most effectively, users sometimes need to train the software to recognize the user's speech patterns, accent, and voice inflections.
What options do visually impaired users have in the world of technology?
In the world of technology, visually impaired users can change their screen settings, such as increasing the size or changing the color of the text to make the words easier to read. Changing the color of text also can address the needs of users with certain types of color blindness. Instead of using a monitor, blind users can work with voice output. A voice output is used when the computer speaks out loud the information that appears on a screen. A Braille printer prints information on paper in Braille
What is information?
Information is data that has been processed to become meaningful.
What are integrated circuits?
Integrated circuits are circuits that packed the equivalent of thousands of vacuum tubes or transistors into a silicon chip about the size of your thumb. These circuits were developed in the 1960's.
How is IoT used in homes?
IoT enables you to manage devices remotely in your home, such as to start the washing machine at a certain time, view potential intruders via a webcam, or adjust the room temperature. IoT continues to advance its capabilities, and can help you maintain a secure, energy efficient, connected, voice activated, remotely accessible home.
What does the Internet of Things (IoT) refer to?
IoT's refer to an environment where processors are embedded in every product imaginable (things), and these things communicate with one another via the Internet or wireless networks. These IoT enabled devices can also be called smart devices.
How is the digital world kept in check?
Just as any society has rules and regulations to guide its citizens, so does the digital world
Why were laws like the ADA and IDEA put in place?
Laws like the ADA and IDEA were put in place to ensure that people with disabilities can access resources, information, and services using the appropriate technology.
What machine to machine (M2M) communications?
M2M refers to manufacturers using computers to monitor computer assembly lines and equipment.
What kind of technology is used in manufacturing?
Manufacturers use computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) to streamline production and ship products more quickly. With CAM, robots perform work that is too dangerous, detailed, or monotonous for people. In particular, they play a major role in automotive manufacturing. For example, robots typically paint the bodies of cars because painting is complex, difficult, and hazardous. Pairing robotic systems with human workers also improves quality, cost efficiency, and competitiveness. Computers and mobile devices make it possible to order parts and materials from the warehouse to assemble custom products. A company's computers monitor assembly lines and equipment using machine-to-machine (M2M) communications.
How can businesses take advantage of IoT?
Manufacturing can use sensors to monitor processes and increase quality of finished goods. Retail can use sensors to track inventory or send coupons to customers' phones while they shop. Shipping companies can track mileage and location of their trucks and monitor driving times to ensure the safety of their drivers.
What are medical monitoring devices?
Medical monitoring devices, such as electronic bracelets, collect vital signs and send the data to a specialist. Patients can ingest smart pills that contain sensors to monitor medication or contain tiny cameras to enable a physician to view the patient's internal organs without invasive procedures. Healthcare also uses 3-D printers to manufacture skin for burn patients, and prosthetic devices and casts.
What options do users with mobility issues have in the world of technology?
Mobility issues can impact a user's ability to interact with hardware, such as a keyboard or a mouse. Users with limited hand mobility can use an on screen keyboard, a keyboard with larger keys, or a hand-mounted pointer to control the pointer or insertion point. Alternatives to mouse buttons include a hand pad, a foot pedal, a receptor that detects facial motions, or a pneumatic instrument controlled by puffs of air. Users with conditions that cause hands to move involuntarily can purchase input devices such as a keyboard or mouse that are less sensitive to accidental interaction due to trembling or spasms.
What is natural data processing?
Natural data processing is a form of data input in which computers interpret and digitize spoken words or commands.
Why do nearly all jobs require people to use technology?
Nearly every job requires you to interact with technology to complete projects, exchange information with coworkers, and meet customers' needs. Whether you are looking for a job in a technology field or other area, you can use technology to prepare for and search for a job.
What newer forms of technology can help you increase your productivity?
Newer forms of technology that increase your productivity are artificial intelligence and robotics.
What was the name of one of the first computers used for personal use called?
One of the first computers used for personal use was the Apple II. It was introduced by Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak of Apple Computer Corporation in 1978.
What can organizations do promote green computing?
Organizations can implement a variety of measures to reduce electrical waste, such as the implementation of consolidating servers, purchasing high-efficiency equipment, using sleep modes and other power management features for computers and devices, buying computers and devices with lower power consumption processors and power supplies, using outside air, when possible, to cool the data center or computer facility, and allowing employees to telecommute to save gas and reduce emissions from vehicles.
How long have people relied on tools and machines?
People have relied on tools and machines to count and manipulate numbers for thousands of years.
Where do people interact with embedded computers in their day to day lives?
People interact with embedded computers in stores, public transportation, their own personal vehicles, and many other places.
Why do people use robots?
People use robots because they can be useful in situations where it is impractical, dangerous, or inconvenient to use a human such as having to clean up hazardous waste, domestic uses such as vacuuming, as well as agricultural and manufacturing uses.
How is Personal IoT used?
Personal IoT uses include wearable fitness trackers that record and send data to your smartphone or computer about your exercise activity, the number of steps you take in a day, and your heart rate.
What programs must most technological devices comply with in order to help reduce the amount of electricity used by computers and related devices?
Personal computers, displays, printers, and other devices should comply with guidelines of the ENERGY STAR program. The United States Department of Energy (DOE) and the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) developed the ENERGY STAR program to help reduce the amount of electricity used by computers and related devices. This program encourages manufacturers to create energy-efficient devices. For example, many devices switch to sleep or power save mode after a specified amount of inactive time.
What is the difference between remote work and telecommuting?
Remote work can refer to working anywhere in the world outside of their employers office, while telecommuting is generally considered to mean working from home.
What is robotics?
Robotics is the science that combines engineering and technology to create and program robots. Robots are useful in situations where it is impractical, dangerous, or inconvenient to use a human.
How can robots assist surgeons?
Robots can assist surgeons by using a robotic arm or instrument which can be often be more precise, flexible, and controlled than a human hand. 3-D cameras enable the surgeon to see inside the body. Robotic surgeries often take less time to heal and can prevent risk of infection because they require a smaller incision site. However, robots require a surgeon to control and direct the operation. Surgeons must not only be trained medically, but also to be able to use the robot.
How do schools use online productivity software?
Schools use online productivity software to enable students to work collaboratively on projects and send the finished assignment to the teacher using email, reducing the need for paper printouts.
How do schools use social networking tools?
Schools use social networking tools to promote school events, work cooperatively on group projects, and teach concepts such as anti-bullying.
What kind of technology is used within self driving cars to improve the overall safety and effectiveness of the vehicle?
Self driving cars use cameras to change speed when it encounters traffic. They rely on a GPS to navigate the overall best and fastest route. The proponents say that they reduce dangers related to human error. One of the biggest concerns about self-driving cars though, is that they may still contribute to accidents caused by distracted driving because it is recommended to monitor the technology in case of an emergency.
What are sensors and tags capable of?
Sensors and tags can transmit data to a server on the Internet over a wireless network at frequent intervals for analysis and storage.
What benefits do smart devices have over other devices?
Smart devices have the ability to communicate, locate, and predict. Smart devices also often have associated apps to control and interact with them.
What is software?
Software consists of the programs and apps that instruct the computer to perform tasks and processes data into meaningful information.
What are some examples of communication technologies?
Some examples of communication technologies are Bluetooth, RFID tags, near-field communications (NFC), and sensors. These technologies have become more readily available, more powerful, and less expensive.
What are some of the practical uses of AI that are used in the world today?
Some of the practical uses of AI that are used in the world today include: strategic gaming, military simulations, statistical predictions, and self-driving cars. Another example would be meteorologists using AI to analyze weather data patterns to create a list of possible outcomes for an upcoming weather event. The predictions made by the AI software then need to be interpreted, reviewed, and prioritized by people.
What are some of the ways you might interact with AI on a daily basis?
Some of the ways you might interact with AI on a daily basis are virtual assistants, which use voice recognition and search engines to answer, react, or reply to user requests. Another example is social media and online ads, which track your data, such as websites visited, and provide ads targeted to your personal interests. Another example is video games that provide information to your virtual opponents based on your skill level and past actions. Another example is music and media streaming services, which recommend options based on your past listening and viewing choices. Another example is smart cars, which automate many driving tasks such as managing speed and avoiding collisions. Another example is navigation apps, which provide you with information about traffic and the best routes, along with preferred stops along your way. Another example is security, such as using your fingerprint to access your phone, or facial recognition and motion detection cameras that alert you to unusual or unauthorized visitors.
What are speech recognition programs?
Speech recognition programs consist of software that helps a user to input data or information verbally.
What impact have advances in technology had on business professionals?
Technological advances, such as the PC, enabled workers to do their jobs more efficiently while at their desks. Today's workers can use smartphones, the Internet, the cloud, and more to work remotely, whether they are telecommuting (working from home), or traveling halfway around the world.
How can technology enable you to be more efficient and effective in your daily life?
Technology can enable you to be more efficient and effective in your daily life by being able to access and search for information faster, communicate with and meet other people, manage finances, network with other business professionals, recruit for or apply for jobs, keep your life and activities organized, and complete business activities. It also help you share personal ideas, photos, and videos with friends, family, and others, shop for goods and services, and play games or access other sorts of entertainment.
How has technology revolutionized our lives?
Technology has revolutionized our lives because people can more quickly and effectively than ever before access, search for, and share information. People can manage their finances, calendars, and tasks. People can also play games and watch videos on their phones or computer for entertainment and relaxation.
What is telecommuting?
Telecommuting means working from home.
What were the 2nd generation of computers made up of?
The 2nd generation of computers replaced vacuum tubes with transistors, which were smaller, cheaper, and more reliable. These computers contained many components still in use today, including tape and disk storage, memory, operating systems, and stored programs.
What is the Americans with Disabilities Act? (ADA)
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a law that requires any company with 15 or more employees to make reasonable attempts to accommodate the needs of physically challenged workers.
What is the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)?
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is a U.S. law that requires that public schools purchase or acquire funding for adaptive technologies.
What is the basic premise of IoT?
The basic premise of IoT is that objects can be tagged, tracked, and monitored through a local network or across the Internet.
What is the basic premise of assisted technology?
The basic premise of assisted technology is to improve accessibility for all users and provide the same opportunities to learn, work, and play, no matter what limitations a user has.
What is the digital divide?
The digital divide gap between those who have access to technology and its resources and information, especially on the Internet, and those who do not. Socioeconomic and demographic factors contribute to the digital divide, which can impact individuals, households, businesses, or geographic areas.
What were the first generation of computers called and what were they made up of?
The first generation of computers were the ENIAC and the UNIVAC. The first computers were made up of vacuum tubes and were very expensive. Their use and availability were limited due to their large size, the amount of power they consumed, the heat they generated, and how quickly they wore out.
What is the mobile health (mHealth) trend?
The mobile health trend refers to healthcare professionals using smartphones or tablets to access health records stored in the cloud, and patients using digital devices to monitor their conditions and treatments. The addition of mHealth apps can be used to help track prescription information, text reminders to take medication, or refill the prescription.
What is a personal computer? (PC)
The personal computer (PC) was a computer designed for personal use, as opposed to commercial or industrial use.
What does the software and apps field consist of?
The software and apps field consists of companies that develop, manufacture, and support programs for computers, the web, and mobile devices. Some companies specialize in a certain area, such as productivity software or gaming. Other companies sell many types of software that work with both computers and mobile devices and may use the Internet to sync data and use collaborative features.
How have tools and technologies evolved over the course of history?
Tools and technologies have evolved from the abacus in ancient times, to the first computing machines in the nineteenth century, to today's powerful handheld devices such as smartphones and tablets.
What are transistors?
Transistors are a smaller, cheaper, and more reliable replacement for vacuum tubes in the second generation of computers.
How is technology used in the transportation industry?
Transportation workers use handheld computers to scan codes on packages or containers of products before loading them on a vehicle, train, ship, or plane. You then can track the progress of your package as it makes its way to you. Computers find an efficient route for the packages and track their progress. Drivers use GPS to navigate quickly and safely, avoiding traffic and hazardous conditions. Soon, self-driving trucks will use robotics for mechanical control. Automated vehicles increase independent transportation options for people with disabilities.
What options are available for users with leaning disabilities in the world of technology?
Users with learning disabilities can use speech recognition programs so the user can input data or information verbally, graphic organizers to enable a user to create an outline or structure of information, or audio books to read information aloud to the user instead of reading on a printed page or on the screen.
What are Vacuum Tubes?
Vacuum tube are cylindrical glass tubes that controlled the flow of electrons, used in the first generation of computers.
How are embedded computers used in vehicles?
Vehicles have many embedded computers. Which enable people to use a camera to guide them when they are backing up, warn you if a vehicle or object is in your blind spot, or alert you to unsafe road conditions. Recently, all new cars were required to include backup cameras and electronic stability control, which can assist with steering the car in case of skidding. All of this technology is intended to make driving safer
What is virtual reality?
Virtual reality is the use of computers to simulate a real or imagined environment that appears as a three-dimensional (3-D) space. These simulations use 3-D images that enable users to explore and have a sensory experience through visual and sound effects. You use VR in gaming to interact with a virtual environment and digital beings
What is a learning management system?
Websites where students can check their progress in a particular course, take practice tests, and exchange messages with the instructor or other students. Students also can view instructor lectures online and take classes or earn a degree online. Ebooks let students read and access content from their tablet or device, and access digital assets like videos associated with the content.
What can kind of green computing solutions can you apply to your life?
You can apply green computing solutions to your life by purchasing and using products with an ENERGY STAR label, Shutting down your computers and devices overnight or when not in use, Donating computer equipment, Using paperless communication, Recycling paper, toner and ink cartridges, computers, mobile devices, and printers, and Telecommuting and using video conferencing for meetings.
