Introduction to Information and
Communication Technology
Instructor: Leandro S. Abardo
The World
Before ICT
Pre-digital Communication Tools
Cave Paintings
Humans in prehistoric times used cave paintings to convey messages and
stories.
Smoke Signals
Tribes used smoke signals to communicate over distances.
Hand Gestures and Body Language
Early humans relied on non-verbal communication like gestures and body language.
Symbols
Symbols were used to represent objects, ideas, and concepts.
Carrier Pigeons
Pigeons were used to carry messages over long distances.
Pre-digital Communication Tools
Postal Systems
The Persian Empire established a courier service for long-distance
communication.
Printing Press
Johannes Gutenberg's invention in the 15th century allowed for mass production of books and
pamphlets
Telegraph
The telegraph, invented in the 19th century, enabled the rapid transmission of
messages using Morse code.
Telephone
Alexander Graham Bell's invention of the telephone in the late 19th century
allowed for real-time voice communication over distances.
What drove every major ICT
breakthrough?
Communication Information Access and Efficiency and
Need Crisis Processing Mobility Automation
Challenge Demand Imperative
Lesson
Objectives
By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:
Define ICT and distinguish it from traditional Information Technology,
identifying its core components and scope
Explain how human needs drove technological advancement by tracing the
development of major ICT innovations from telegraph to smartphones
Classify computers by size, purpose, and processing method, and identify
their appropriate applications
Analyze ICT's impact on individuals, organizations, and society, including
both positive effects and ethical challenges
Evaluate current technological trends and predict future developments
based on emerging human needs and societal problems
Defining ICT and Its Scope
What is Information and Communication
Technology?
Information: Data that has been processed, organized, and given meaning
Communication: The exchange of information between parties
Technology: Tools and systems that enable these processes
Information: Data that has been processed,
organized, and given meaning
Raw Data: Unprocessed facts, figures, or symbols (e.g., "25", "John", "Red")
Processed Information: Data that has been analyzed and contextualized (e.g., "25
students scored above 90% on the exam")
Meaningful Information: Data that provides insights for decision-making (e.g., "The
class performed exceptionally well, indicating effective teaching methods")
Examples in Daily Life:
Raw data: Temperature reading of 38°C
Information: "Today's temperature is 38°C, which is above normal for this season"
Weather reports, news articles, social media posts, academic grades
Communication: The exchange of information
between parties
Key Elements:
Sender: The person or system transmitting information
Message: The actual information being conveyed
Medium/Channel: The method used to transmit (voice, text, video, signals)
Receiver: The person or system receiving the information
Feedback: Response that confirms understanding or requests clarification
Types of Communication:
Synchronous: Real-time communication (phone calls, video conferences, live chat)
Asynchronous: Delayed communication (email, text messages, recorded videos)
One-to-one: Direct communication between two parties
One-to-many: Broadcasting to multiple recipients (social media posts, announcements)
Many-to-many: Group discussions and collaborative platforms
Evolution: From face-to-face conversations → written letters → telegraph → telephone → email
→ instant messaging → social media
Technology: Tools and systems that enable these
processes
Hardware Components:
Input devices: Keyboards, microphones, cameras, sensors
Processing units: CPUs, servers, smartphones, computers
Storage systems: Hard drives, cloud storage, databases
Output devices: Monitors, speakers, printers, displays
Network infrastructure: Routers, cables, wireless towers, satellites
Software Components:
Operating systems: Windows, iOS, Android, Linux
Applications: Social media apps, email clients, messaging platforms
Programming languages: Code that creates digital tools
Protocols: Rules that govern how devices communicate (HTTP, TCP/IP)
Systems Integration: How hardware and software work together to create seamless user
experiences
Example:
Social media platforms combine servers (hardware) + applications (software)
IT vs. ICT
Information Technology
Represents the traditional core of computing and data management. IT
primarily concentrates on the technical infrastructure that enables
organizations to store, process, and manage information effectively.
Core Components of IT:
Hardware Systems: Servers, computers, storage devices, and networking
equipment that form the physical foundation of computing infrastructure
Software Applications: Operating systems, databases, enterprise software,
and programming tools that run on hardware platforms
Data Processing: Methods and systems for collecting, storing, analyzing,
and retrieving information efficiently
System Administration: Managing and maintaining computing environments,
including security, backups, and performance optimization
IT vs. ICT
Information Technology
IT-Focused Examples:
Enterprise Database Management: Designing and maintaining customer
relationship management (CRM) systems that store and process business
data
Network Infrastructure: Setting up secure corporate networks with firewalls,
servers, and backup systems
Software Development: Creating internal applications for inventory
management or financial reporting
IT vs. ICT
Information and Communication Technology
Expands significantly beyond traditional IT boundaries by incorporating
communication technologies and emphasizing human interaction with
technology. This broader scope reflects how technology has evolved to
become more interconnected and user-focused.
Extended Scope of ICT:
Communication Networks: Internet infrastructure, mobile networks,
satellite communications, and telecommunications systems that enable
global connectivity
Digital Media: Multimedia content creation, streaming services, digital
publishing, and interactive media platforms
Interactive Systems: User interfaces, mobile applications, web platforms,
and collaborative tools that facilitate human-computer interaction
Social and Collaborative Platforms: Social media, video conferencing,
online communities, and digital collaboration spaces
IT vs. ICT
Information and Communication Technology
ICT-Focused Examples:
Social Media Platforms: Facebook, X, and LinkedIn combine technology with
communication to create interactive communities
E-Learning Systems: Online educational platforms that integrate multimedia
content, communication tools, and collaborative features
Telemedicine: Digital health platforms that connect patients with
healthcare providers through video conferencing and data sharing
Smart City Initiatives: Integrated systems that use sensors, mobile apps, and
communication networks to improve urban services
Core Components of ICT
Hardware (devices, infrastructure)
Software (applications, operating systems)
Networks (internet, telecommunications)
Data and information
People and procedures
Thank You!
