Achievers Computing for JHS Basic 9332 CONTENT STANDARD 1 PARTS OF A COMPUTER AND TECHNOLOGY TOOLS AND THEIR USES At the end of this content, learners will be able to: Discuss the trends in the next generation of computers. Examine the concept of Perceptual Computing. Discuss the uses of Output devices such as Wearable Displays, E-Paper, E-Books, Kindle Describe Storage Systems: Network and Cloud Storage Systems, Smart Cards, Holographic Storage, Storage Systems for Large Computer Systems Computers are found in every aspect of our daily lives, and this digital transformation is creating a trend of new business models and innovations. As the number of application usage increases, so too do the demands we place on software and hardware. The key trends of next-generation computing are computers and digitization. In the coming decades, the digital world will experience immense technological advancement. But, why is it important for you to know? Having certain knowledge about the upcoming development will help prevent various shocks. The development can either be good or bad for businesses and the society as a whole. However, it is upon you to take advantage of it and get the best benefit out of it. Features expected to be seen in the next generation of computers include: 1. Neuromorphic Computing: Neuromorphic computing uses the human brain as a model for hardware and computing platforms, semiconductor technologies, chip design, architectures and algorithms in order to increase the performance and energy efficiency of computing systems, including mobile and edge applications. STRAND 1 INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTINGIndicators TRENDS IN THE NEXT GENERATION OF COMPUTERS SUB-STRAND 1 COMPONENTS OF COMPUTERS AND COMPUTER SYSTEMS
Achievers Computing for JHS Basic 9 333 2. Quantum Computers: Quantum computers can tackle highly complex calculations that would be almost impossible to perform even with conventional supercomputers. This makes the development of corresponding technologies and algorithms essential for the next generation of computers. 3. Artificial Intelligence: There is no doubt that artificial intelligence will be one of the biggest trends. We are still in the initial phase of development in artificial intelligence. With modern technology, companies are focusing on integrating AI with various technological tools. Along with that, speech generation with AI will improve the interaction between humans and computers. 4. Facial Recognition and Computer Vision: Artificial intelligence is promoting computers to interact with humans. But in the upcoming years, we expect these machines to see as well. This feature is also available in various security systems and mobile phones. Hence, this section will improve more in the future with rapid development. 5. Increased Connectivity: Improvement in digital connections with 5G connectivity will improve economic structure significantly. Also, the increase in wireless control of machines and mobile tools can cause a drastic shift in digitalization. Quantum Computing Quantum computing is an area of computer science that uses the principles of quantum theory. Quantum theory explains the behavior of energy and material on the atomic and subatomic levels. Quantum computing uses subatomic particles, such as electrons or photons. Quantum bits, or qubits, allow these particles to exist in more than one state (i.e., 1 and 0) at the same time. Where classical computers store information as bits with either 0s or 1s, quantum computers use qubits. Qubits carry information in a quantum state that engages 0 and 1 in a multidimensional way. Google Sycamore is a quantum computer developed by Google AI Quantum. Google Sycamore chip is based on a type of quantum computing called superconducting qubits, which uses electric currents flowing through superconducting materials to store and process information. Sycamore (quantum bits). Sycamore achieved its results using exactly 53 qubits.
Achievers Computing for JHS Basic 9 334 Perceptual computing maybe defined as a technology advancement in which computers are able to sense or analyze the environment around them and respond accordingly. In simple terms, perceptual computing is the ability for a computer to recognize what is going on around it. The computer then can determine what user might need, as well as react to those needs without giving or receiving any additional information from the user. Passwords are no longer needed. When your computer is able to recognize you, there is no need for a password. You are your password with perceptual computing. computer can guess at a how a person is feeling. With this technology the computer can tell that a person is getting happy, angry or sad and respond accordingly. Features of perceptual computing includes; 1. Speech and Voice Recognition 2. Controlling application using gestures 3. Hand, Finger and Head tracking 4. Gesture and pose recognition 5. Face tracking and recognition 6. Emotion detection Wearable Display Wearable device is any kind of electronic device designed to be worn on the user's body. Such devices can take many different forms, including glasses, jewelry, accessories, medical devices, and clothing or elements of clothing. A wearable computer is a technology tool that a customer can wear usually to monitor health and fitness-related information. The most common examples of wearable technology include smart watches, (AI) hearing aids, Google Glass, Apple Glass and Microsoft's HoloLens PERCEPTUAL COMPUTINGUses of Output devices such as Wearable Displays, E-Paper, and E-Books
Achievers Computing for JHS Basic 9335 Google Glass Google Glass is a wearable, voice- and motion-controlled Android device that resembles a pair of eyeglasses and displays information directly in the user's field of vision. Google Glass offers an augmented reality (AR) experience by using visual, audio and locationbased inputs to provide relevant information to users. The glasses have built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity and a camera for taking photographs and videos. Uses of Google Glasses 1. For taking photos and videos and then share them through Google Hangouts. 2. Searching for information on the internet through the glasses, using Wi-Fi or a smartphone's data connection. 3. For both voice and video calls. 4. Responding to emails and text messages using voice dictation. 5. It provides step-by-step directions with a map displayed on the screen. E-Paper (Electronic Paper) Electronic paper or e-paper is a technology that makes it easy to read text on an electronic gadget. It is a display technology that mimics the appearance of ordinary ink on paper to produce a low-power, paper-like display. E-paper display does not need electricity to sustain the displayed text and image. The displays can hold static text and images for months without electricity. That is, it can retain text and images even when power is off. Advantages of E-Paper Display 1. Consumes less power 2. Display stays for a long time without power 3. It is available in multiple sizes 4. It is a high-definition and paper-like appearance display
Achievers Computing for JHS Basic 9 336 Disadvantages of E-Paper Display 1. Display is slow to update 2. Not suitable for animation or fast-changing displays 3. It is expensive as compared to LCD and other similar size displays. 4. It has less memory E-Book (Electronic Book) An e-book, short for electronic book, is a digital form of a printed book designed to be read on devices like computers, tablets, or smartphones. It is a non-editable text that is converted into a digital format and read on an electronic device. E-Book Reader An e-reader, also called an e-book reader or e-book device, is a device that is specially designed for reading electronic books. It is an electronic version of a physical book that can be read on a screen or a handheld device specifically designed for reading (known as e-book reader). Kindle is the first portable hardware computer released in the U.S. for reading ebooks by Amazon. Any device that can display text on a screen may act as an e-reader; however, specialized e-reader devices may improve portability, readability, and battery life for this purpose. Examples of e-book readers 1. Amazon Kindle 2. Sony reader 3. Kobo 4. Barnes and Noble Nook 5. Tablet 6. Smart Phones Advantages of Using E-Books 1. E-books are portable. 2. E-books are affordable compare to printed books. 3. E-books are environmentally friendly. No cutting of trees to produce papers. 4. Unlimited access to books anytime anywhere. 5. E-book saves space, with all books on one device. Examples of E-Reader Apps or software 1. Amazon kindle app 2. Kobo books 3. Apple books 4. Adobe Reader 5. epub reader 6. Wattpad 7. OverDrive
Achievers Computing for JHS Basic 9 337 Disadvantages of using E-Books 1. Piracy is the number one concern for both publishers and authors of e-book. 2. There are health issues while reading during night time mostly on tablets. 3. E-books require power source. As a result, if battery is not charged and power source is not available, reader cannot have access their e-books. Storage System holds data, instructions, and information for future use. Every computer system store system software, application software and user files. As we have already discussed the various storage devices and their uses in basic 7 and 8, we will look at other types of storage systems such as cloud storage, smart cards, holographic storage and server storage systems in this section. Cloud Storage Cloud storage is the technology of saving data in a remote physical location that can be accessed through the Internet from any device. Cloud storage is an Internet service that provides storage to computer users. Types of services offered by cloud storage providers vary. Some provide storage for specific types of files, such as photos or e-mail messages, whereas others store any type of file. Examples of Common Cloud Storage (Cloud Storage Providers) 1. Google Drive 2. One Drive 3. Dropbox 4. iCloud 5. Amazon cloud drive Most of the storage providers provide free storage space and extra storage at a fee with monthly subscription. Advantages (Pros) of Using Cloud Storage 1. Backup your data to the cloud 2. No more external hard drive is needed. 3. Remotely update and sync your files 4. Keep your files encrypted 5. Stores your data for a lifetime. STORAGE SYSTEMS
Achievers Computing for JHS Basic 9 338 Disadvantages (Cons) of Using Cloud Storage 1. You need an internet connection to access your data. 2. Extra storage space comes at a cost. 3. Security and privacy concerns with some providers. Smart Cards Smart card is a plastic card with a built-in microprocessor, used typically to perform financial transactions. A smart card is a card that is embedded with either a microprocessor and a memory chip or only a memory chip. The microprocessor card can add, delete, and otherwise manipulate information on the card, while a memory-chip card (for example, pre-paid cards) can only undertake a pre-defined operation. Smart card can be used to store and process information and to control access, either to a physical location or to data. Examples of Smart Cards Includes: 1. ATM cards (debit and credit cards) 2. ID cards (Ghana card and SSNIT card) 3. Passports 4. SIM cards 5. Pre-paid cards Uses or Application of Smart Cards 1. Banking & Retail 2. Healthcare 3. Transportation. 4. ID verification and access control 5. Mobile communications 6. Computer and network security Holographic Storage Holographic Storage It is a computer storage device that uses beams of light to store three-dimensional digitally created data. Holography is the use of light, typically two distinct beams of light or energy, to rough the use of light at a later time. Holographic storage can access the bits of data in a parallel manner, through the beam of light, rather than one bit at a time, making data recording and retrieval significantly faster than other media.
Achievers Computing for JHS Basic 9 339 CONTENT STANDARD 2 DEMONSTRATE THE USE OF THE DESKTOP At the end of this content, learners will be able to: 1. Explore personalisation of the computer 2. Identify and use file management techniques (drivers and hardware) Personalization is the process by which a user customizes a desktop, or interface to suit personal preferences. It is always nice to personalize your computer to make it work best for you. Here are some ways to personalize Windows 10: 1. Change the desktop background 2. Change the desktop icon 3. Change the mouse pointer 4. Customize the taskbar 5. Change the accent colour and theme How to Change Desktop Icon If you are bored with the default icons on your Windows 10 computer, you can use the following ways to change desktop icons easily. 1. Change Desktop Icons on Windows 10 2. Change Folder Icons on Windows 10 To change the desktop icon: 1. Right-click on desktop and select Personalize. 2. Click on Themes at the left pane of the window. 3. At the right pane, locate Related Settings and click on Desktop Icon Settings4. In the Desktop Icon Settings window, select the desktop icon you want to change and click Change Icon. Indicators DESKTOP PERSONALISATION
Achievers Computing for JHS Basic 9 340 5. Choose a new icon from the list or click Browse to input an icon and tap OK. 6. Click on Apply and then Ok To change Folder Icon: 1. Right-click the folder and select Properties in the context menu. 2. Choose Customize and click Change Icon in the Properties window. 3. Choose a new icon from the list or click Browse to input an icon and tap OK. 4. Click on Apply and then Ok
Achievers Computing for JHS Basic 9 341 How to Change the Mouse Pointer 1. Right-click on the desktop and select Properties 2. Click on Themes at the left pane of the window. 3. Locate and select Mouse Cursor at right pane of the window. 4. In the Mouse Properties dialog, select the Pointers tab, 5. Select your desired mouse pointer size and color from the drop-down list under Scheme. 6. Click Apply and then Ok to apply the changes. To change the mouse pointer's size and color back to its default state, just click the Use Default button. A device driver is a special kind of software program that controls a specific hardware device attached to a computer. Device drivers are system programs responsible for proper functioning of devices. Every device, whether it is a printer, monitor, mouse or keyboard, has a driver program associated with it for its proper functioning. Whenever a new device is added to the computer system, a new device driver must be installed before the device is used. Types of Device Driver Drivers can be broadly classified into two types. These are: 1. Kernel-mode Device Driver 2. User-mode Device Driver FILE MANAGEMENT TECHNIQUES (DRIVERS AND HARDWARE)
Achievers Computing for JHS Basic 9 342 Kernel-mode Device Driver: Kernel-mode device driver includes some basic hardware that loads with an operating system as part of the OS. These are BIOS, motherboard, processor, RAM and some other hardware that are part of the operating system. User-mode Device Driver: They refer to device drivers that users may install and use on their system. When using a system, users may have their own external devices that they bring to use, such as mouse, keyboard, sound card, printer and mobile phones. These devices also require drivers to function. Common Device Drivers and Their Functions 1. Sound Drivers - Audio driver is the software that helps your operating system to communicate with audio devices such as internal sound cards, speakers, headsets, and microphones. 2. Graphic Drivers - The software that links the operating system to a particular graphics card. Aside higher resolution graphics, graphics driver can also speed up your PC and boost your computer's performance, not only for gaming but for any multimedia application. 3. Network (LAN) Drivers - A network driver is a software program that controls a device used to connect a computer to a network. Plug-and-Paly Device Plug and play (PnP) refers to a computer's ability to detect and configure hardware automatically without requiring the user to install any device drivers. Drivers are required for plug and play devices to work, but they are automatically installed when the device connects to a computer. The operating system detects the device and installs the necessary drivers. There is no need to manually install separate drivers for a plug and play device. Examples of plug and play devices There are many different plug and play devices available for computers. Below is a list of common ones. 1. External hard drive 4. Mouse 2. Gamepad or joystick 5. USB flash drive 3. Keyboard 6. Webcam
Achievers Computing for JHS Basic 9 343 How to Install, Update and Delete Drivers Driver installation or updates for devices, such as network adapters, monitors, printers, and video cards, are automatically downloaded and installed through Windows Update. But if you want to manually install, update or reinstall (delete) a driver, here is how to do it. To Install, Update or Delete (uninstall) Driers on windows 10: 1. Right-click on the Start menu 2. Locate and select Device Manager 3. Search through the devices and double-click on the device that you want to update or delete drivers from the Device Manager dialog box. This will load the drivers below the device name. 4. Select any of the options from the pop-up menu to update, disable or uninstall the selected drivers. 5. To update drivers, select Search automatically for drivers or Browse my computer for drivers Note: Some drivers may require you to restart your computer after an installation, update or uninstallation of drivers.
Achievers Computing for JHS Basic 9 344 CONTENT STANDARD Demonstrate the Use of Technology in the Community At the end of this content, learners will be able to: Evaluate problems in the community that can be solved with technology Propose solutions to the problems identified Design the solution selected ACTIVITY Task in this content is to be done as a project work Activity 1: Problems in the community that can be solved with technology Students are to discuss problems in the community that can be solved using technology. Work in pairs. Activity 2: Propose solutions to the problems identified. Present technological solutions to the problems identified in activity 1 Activity 3: Design the solution selected. Design the solution selected. Present the solution designed to class. Indicators SUB-STRAND 2 TECHNOLOGY INT HE COMMUNITY (COMMUNICATION)
Achievers Computing for JHS Basic 9 345 CONTENT STANDARD Demonstrate How to Apply Health and Safety Measures in the Use ICT Tools At the end of this content, learners will be able to: Evaluate health issues at workstations Evaluate Safety Risk Reduction at issues at workstations Ergonomics refers to the process of arranging a workplace, systems, and equipment in a way that makes it easy safe for people to use them. Ergonomic workstation is one that supports your body in a neutral position and can reduce the risk of discomfort or pain cause to our bodies. To reduce risks and injuries at workplace, workstations should be design with ergonomic tools or equipment. Ergonomics workstation setup There is a wide variety of ergonomically designed equipment available, including chairs, adjustable-height desks, monitor arms, alternative mouse devices, keyboards, document holders, headsets, and anti-fatigue mats. Chair Chairs selected should meet the following requirements: 1. Easy-to-use control mechanisms 2. 5-point base to prevent tipping or slipping 3. Castors for carpet; braked castors for hard surfaces 4. Fully adjustable to accommodate different size workers 5. Conform to the lower back curve of the user 6. No arms, or if necessary, arms must be adjustable in height and direction so that they do not prevent you from getting as close to the desk as possible. SUB-STRAND 3 HEALTH AND SAFETY IN THE USE OF ICT TOOLSIndicators HEALTH ISSUES AT WORKSTATIONS
Achievers Computing for JHS Basic 9 346 Keyboard 1. Place directly in front of the body to avoid twisting the neck or torso 2. Position yourself in front of the computer monitor with the letters G and H approximately in line with your navel. This is particularly good positioning when doing a lot of keyboard work 3. Position yourself so that you can reach the keyboard with your elbows in a neutral position by the side of the body 4. Arms should be parallel to the floor when fingers are placed gently on the keyboard. The seated elbow height should be a little higher than the height of the keyboard. Raise or lower your chair to achieve this position Mouse wrist and forearm muscles. Ensure the mouse is not too large so that the wrist is in a neutral position during use. 1. Take the hand off the mouse at frequent intervals 2. Use keyboard shortcuts where possible. 3. Position the mouse directly to the right or left-hand side of the keyboard 4. Mouse operation can alternate from left-handed to right-handed to minimize strain on one hand. Laptop Laptops are not designed to be used for long periods. The monitor and keyboard are so close together that they cannot both, be in good positions at the same time. If you are using a laptop for long periods, it is best to add a separate monitor and keyboard use an adjustable stand so you can view the screen at eye level. Headset If you use a telephone frequently or use your computer when on the telephone: 1. Consider using a headset to prevent awkward neck postures 2. Position the telephone on your non-dominant side within easy reach.
Achievers Computing for JHS Basic 9347 Paper / Document Holders If you read from documents whilst typing, consider using a document holder/stand, located either in line with the keyboard or to the side of the monitor on an angle. Good lighting System A crucial component to setting up your workstation is your lighting, which can be associated with vision problems (eyestrain, dry eyes, itchy/irritated eyes), health problems, and reduced work performance. Computer work can be particularly visually demanding. Ergonomics experts recommend good lighting to reduce eye strain and avoid stretching out your neck at an unnatural angle. Best Lighting for Your Work Space 1. The ambient lighting you use should be low or glare free. 2. Your light level should be appropriate for your tasks. 3. Use blinds or drapes to control the light from windows. 4. Fluorescent lighting is preferable to other types of office lighting. Safety risk reduction at workstation Many who use computers, printers, routers and other electronic device at work or home may be unaware of workstation situations that can increase their risk of development of injury. In this lesson, we will assess the possible heat that machines generates and how to reduce the excess heat. Why does machine generate heat? Just like your body can become overheated, a computer and other electronic devices can overheat as well. And while computers are built to withstand a high level of heat, it is still possible for them to become too hot. At times, you could hear the fan of your computer, printer or router working hard; perhaps you have even felt a computer that is warm to the touch before. But have you ever wondered why computers generate this amount of heat? Essentially, the heat comes from the electricity working inside the computer. As it flows through the various circuits and resistors inside your machine, some of that
Achievers Computing for JHS Basic 9 348 is similar to a light bulb, where current runs through a wire and gets hot, glowing from the heat. As expected, a lightbulb is hot to the touch after you have had it on for a while. How to reduce excess heat from electronic devices As the days get warmer, make sure to keep your computer and other electronic gadgets nice and cool. Extreme heat can potentially damage your expensive machine. Excess heat may be managed through the following ways: 1. Allow for Airflow: Make sure there is enough space around your devices; about 2-3 inches, and make sure the vents are clear and that there are no loose items that could obstruct airflow around your electronic devices. Most printers, computers, routers and other electronic devices have vents located on the back or on the side. This configuration allows cool air to be pulled in to the device from the front or from the sides and for the hot air to be forced out through the back or to the sides. 2. Position Electronics Away from Heat: Never place your computer by a window under direct sunlight. Move the computer to a cooler and cleaner area. It is best to position it along the path of airflow from a fan or air conditioner 3. Do not Stack Them: Electronic devices get hot enough on their own. Stacking them on top of each other produces and conducts even higher temperatures. Keep your devices spread out and use shelves whenever possible. 4. Keep It Clean: Dirt in the form of dust, human or pet hair, etc. may slow down the fan and eventually cause it to stop. Blow the dust away from all of your gadgets. Remember to keep all of the vents clean and unobstructed. 5. In Case of Emergency, Shut Down: If one of your gadgets begins to overheat and malfunction during the hot summer months, shut it down and disconnect its power supply. Let it sit and cool down until the casing is no longer hot to the devices, and keep the area clear to allow for proper airflow.
Achievers Computing for JHS Basic 9 349 ASSESSMENT TASK Multiple choice 1. All the following are examples of wearable devices except A. Mobile Phone B. Google glass C. Smart watch 2. The digital form of printed book is well known as A. Digital book B. E- book C. E-paper 3. Saving your files in a remote location and access them later through the internet is called? A. Cloud storage B. Internet storage C. Remote storage 4. All the following are examples of smart card except A. Ghana card B. ATM card C. Voters ID card D. SSNIT card 5. Which of the following is not an example of plug and play device? A. Printer B. Mouse C. Keyboard 6. Which drivers control the proper functioning of audio devices connected to the computer system A. LAN drivers B. Sound drivers C. Graphic drivers 7. Which amongst the following is not an example of cloud storage A. Hard drive B. Google drive C. One drive D. iCloud Structured Questions 1. What is cloud storage? 2. State two advantages and disadvantages of cloud storage 3. List four (4) examples of e-book reader 4. Identify any three (3) uses of google glasses. 5. Explain the following terms i. E-paper ii. E-book iii. Smart card iv. Plug and play 6. Identify any three (3) ways to reduce excess heat caused by computers and printers. 7. State three (3) ergonomics each of using the following devices. i. Mouse ii. Keyboard iii. Chair 8. List the steps involved in changing the desktop icon. 9. Mention any four (4) examples of plug and play device 10. State three (3) disadvantages of ebook over printed book. 11. Explain the term perceptual computing.