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This lesson provides an overview of basic computer literacy, covering topics such as software, hardware, storage devices, and essential questions to ask before buying equipment. Understanding the computing cycle, storage devices, and the components of a computer system are emphasized. Knowledge of software types, hardware components, and storage devices is essential for teachers to troubleshoot, make informed requests for assistance, and ensure efficient use of technology in the classroom. Important considerations and questions regarding hardware selection and classroom equipment setup are also discussed, along with key terms to know in the tech field. Stay informed and prepared with this comprehensive guide.
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Lesson 2: Chapters 2 and 3 What Teachers Need To Know About Computers, Hardware, and Software
An Overview • Why does a teacher need to know about computers, hardware, and software? • Basic Computer Literacy • Software • Hardware • Storage Devices • Basic Questions to Ask Before Buying Brenda Linn-Miller
Teachers Need to Know • To do basic troubleshooting • To ask sensible questions • To make sensible requests for assistance • To make wise requests for new equipment Brenda Linn-Miller
Basic Computer Literacy Important Facts • Computers are machines made of metal, plastic, chips, and wire. • They are designed to perform tasks depending on instructions (programs). • The computer and all of its components make up a computer system. • Computer memory is a temporary storage space for short-term tasks or tasks too complex to do all at once. • Storage is permanent electronic space for storing data that can be used later. Brenda Linn-Miller
The Computing Cycle # 2 STORAGE # 3 OUTPUT Central Processing Unit # 1 INPUT # 4 MEMORY Brenda Linn-Miller
The Computer System • Storage • DVD Drive • CD-RW Drive • Floppy Drive • System Unit • CPU • RAM • Output Devices • Monitor • Printer • Input Devices • Mouse • Keyboard • Scanner • Trackball • Touchpad Brenda Linn-Miller
Software • Definition • Sets of computer instruction that tell a computer how to accomplish a given task • Types • Operating System Software • Controls the computer operations • Application Software • Tells the computer how to complete a unique task (such as key a letter using Microsoft WORD) • Includes word processing, electronic spreadsheets, drawing, and presentation software • Antivirus Programs • Detect and destroy computer viruses Brenda Linn-Miller
Hardware • Input Devices and Output Devices • Monitor resolution measured in pixels • Produces a soft copy • Printer resolution measured in DPI • Produces a hard copy • System Unit Brenda Linn-Miller
Storage Devices • Floppy Disk • Stores up to 1.44 MB • Useful to move data between computers • Hard Disk • Stores billions of bytes of information • Permanently mounted inside the computer • Usually called the C: drive Files are saved to or copied to floppy disks, hard drives, and USB Flash drives. Brenda Linn-Miller
More Storage Devices • USB Flash Drive • Stores up to 2 GB of information • Stores data on a flash memory chip • Information can be saved or retrieved • CD/DVD • CD stores up to 650 MB of information • DVD stores up to 17 GB of information • Can be read only or recordable Files and/or media are burned to CD’s and DVD’s. Brenda Linn-Miller
Other Storage Devices • Removable media • Portable hard disks and disk cartridges • Can store up to hundreds of GB of data • Convenient for transporting large multimedia files Brenda Linn-Miller
Relative Sizes of Stored Data • 1 BYTE = 1 alphanumeric character • 1 Kilobyte = Apr. 1,000 characters • 1 Megabyte = Apr. 1 million characters • 1 Gigabyte = Apr. 1 billion characters Why is this information important? • Files are measured in bytes. • Internet downloads are measured in bytes. • Programs (system requirements) are measured in bytes. Brenda Linn-Miller
Basic Care of Storage Devices AVOID • Water • Extreme heat • Magnets • Static electricity • Sources of computer viruses Brenda Linn-Miller
Basic Questions Teachers Should Ask About Hardware • CPU—how fast does it run? • Measured in MHz • RAM—how much temporary memory area? • Usually measured in MB • Inputdevices—what quality devices are included? • Monitor—what is the size and resolution? • Harddrive—what is the capacity? - Usually measured in GB Brenda Linn-Miller
More Questions About Hardware • Opticaldrives—CD-RW, DVD, or DVD-R? • Soundsystem—Upgradeable sound card? • Amplified speakers? • Ports—Includes all standard ports plus four or more USB ports, front loadable? • WarrantyandSupport—Phone? Online? Onsite? For how long? Brenda Linn-Miller
Important Considerationsfor Classroom Equipment • Easeofsetup—Go together easily? Step-by-step instructions included? • Easeofuse—Practice required? • Spacerequirement—Crowd the room? • Standardsconsistency—Matches school, district, and national standards? • Documentation—Clear? User-friendly? Brenda Linn-Miller
Important ConsiderationsContinued . . . • Compatibility—Fully compatible with existing hardware and software? • Technicalsupport—Free local help readily available? • Tutorials/TrainingAvailable—CD? Online? In-house? Free or minimal cost? • Warranty—Phone support? Extended warranty? Easy problem resolution process? Brenda Linn-Miller
Byte KB MB GB CD-R/CD-RW Virus Pixel DPI RAM Hardware Software Resolution Know These Terms • Menu • Icon • Command • Volatile • Hard Copy • Soft Copy Brenda Linn-Miller