Unit 1-PROFED 4

Technology in Teaching and Learning 1

Week 1
MODULE 1
Module: Basic Concepts of Technology and Information and Communication
Estimated Duration: 3 Hours

Module Overview
Welcome to this introductory module on the fundamental concepts of Technology and
Information and Communication Technology (ICT). In today's world, technology is not just an
industry; it is the backbone of our society, shaping how we work, learn, communicate, and live.
This session is designed to revisit ,review and demystify the terms "technology" and "ICT,"
providing you with a clear and solid understanding of what they are, how they work, and why
they are critically important. We will begin by defining technology in its broadest sense as the
application of scientific knowledge for practical human purposes. From there, we will narrow
our focus to Information and Communication Technology (ICT), which encompasses all the
digital tools and resources used to create, store, manage, and exchange information .This
includes everything from your smartphone and laptop to the vast, invisible networks that
connect them.
Throughout this 3-hour session, we will break down the essential components that make
up any ICT system: hardware, software, data, networks, and the most crucial component—
people We will explore the transformative impact of ICT on key sectors like business,
education, and healthcare, and discuss the importance of digital literacy as an essential skill for
the 21st century. This module will provide you with the foundational knowledge needed to
navigate and understand our increasingly digital world with confidence.

Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this module, you will be able to:
1. Differentiate between the broad concept of "Technology" and the specific domain of
"Information and Communication Technology (ICT)."
2. Identify and describe the five core components of an ICT system: hardware,
software, data, networks, and people.
3. Explain the basic functions of common hardware and software.
4. Recognize the role of ICT in modern communication, business, and daily life.
5. Understand the importance of digital literacy and responsible technology use.

Core Contents
Revisiting One’s Foundations of Technology and ICT

1.Defining Technology and ICT

We begin with the macro view of technology.Technology is a broad term for the tools,
techniques, systems, and methods of organization used to solve a problem or achieve a practical
goal. It is the application of scientific knowledge to the real world .Examples range from the
invention of the wheel to modern advancements in medicine and manufacturing.
Information and Communication Technology (ICT):ICT is a specific and powerful
subset of technology. It refers to the infrastructure and components that enable modern
computing and communication. It is the "acquisition, processing, storage and dissemination of
vocal, pictorial, textual and numerical information" using a microelectronics-based system
communication-). Essentially, if a technology is used to handle and communicate information
digitally, it's ICT. Examples include personal computers, the internet, email, smartphones, and
social media platforms

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A computer is an electronic device composed of hardware and software that processes

data and executes tasks based on programmed instructions. Understanding the physical
components, such as buttons and ports—including power buttons, USB ports, and network
connectors—is essential for effective use and troubleshooting. Inside a computer, critical parts
like the motherboard, CPU, RAM, and hard drive work together to perform operations and
store information. Laptop computers offer portability with built-in batteries and integrated
peripherals, requiring users to manage battery life and care differently from desktops.
Operating systems like Windows, Mac OS, and Linux serve as the interface between users and
hardware, managing resources and running applications designed for specific functions such
as word processing or web browsing.
Setting up a desktop computer involves connecting various peripherals and configuring
initial software settings. Once set up, users can navigate operating systems—Windows with its
desktop, start menu, and taskbar, and Mac OS with its Dock and Finder—to efficiently manage
files and applications. Connecting to the internet through wired or wireless networks allows
access to online resources, while understanding cloud computing enables users to store and
collaborate on data remotely, though security remains a critical consideration. Protecting a
computer from viruses and malware through antivirus software and safe practices is vital to
maintaining system integrity. Creating a safe workspace, both digitally and physically,
improves productivity and reduces risks of injury or data loss.
Knowledge of basic computer parts and proper cleaning helps maintain hardware
functionality and prevent overheating. Portable storage devices like USB drives facilitate data
transfer and require safe handling to avoid data corruption. Altogether, these foundational
concepts equip users to confidently operate and maintain computers in daily life and
professional settings.

2. The Components of an ICT System

The Five Pillars of ICT

An ICT system can be broken down into five fundamental components that work together.
1.Hardware: These are the physical parts of a computer system that you can see and touch.
Examples: Central Processing Unit (CPU or the "brain"), Memory (RAM), Storage (Hard
Drive, SSD), Input Devices (keyboard, mouse, camera), and Output Devices (monitor,
printer).
2.Software: These are the sets of instructions (programs) that tell the hardware what to do.
System Software: Manages the computer's resources (e.g., Microsoft Windows, macOS,
Android).
Application Software: Performs specific tasks for the user (e.g., Microsoft Word, Google
Chrome, Adobe Photoshop).
3.Data: This is the raw, unorganized information that is processed by the ICT system to
become meaningful. Data is the lifeblood of ICT. It can be in the form of text, numbers,
images, or sounds. When you type an email, the text is data.
4.Networks:These are what connect different computers and devices, allowing them to share
data and resources.
Common types of computer networks:
LAN (Local Area Network)
Covers a small geographic area like a home, school, or office building.
High speed, usually wired or Wi-Fi connections.
WAN (Wide Area Network)
Covers a large geographic area, such as cities, countries, or even globally.
The internet is the largest example of a WAN.

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MAN (Metropolitan Area Network)

Larger than a LAN but smaller than a WAN, typically covers a city or campus.
PAN (Personal Area Network)
Very small network usually centered around one person, like Bluetooth connections between
phone, headphones, and smartwatch.
CAN (Campus Area Network)
Network connecting multiple LANs within a limited area like a university or corporate
campus.
VPN (Virtual Private Network)
A secure network connection over the internet that allows remote access or connects multiple
networks securely.

5.People: Users are the most important component. People design, build, maintain, and use
ICT systems. Their knowledge and skills (digital literacy) determine the effectiveness of any
technology.

3. The Impact of ICT on Society

ICT has fundamentally reshaped our world.
Improved Communication
Instant messaging, video calls, and social media connect people worldwide instantly.
Enhances collaboration in work, education, and personal life.
Instantaneous communication is now possible globally through email, instant messaging, and
video calls. Social media has changed how we interact and share information.

Business: ICT drives efficiency and innovation. It is used for everything from inventory
management and online sales (e-commerce) to data analysis and marketing
Economic Growth and Job Creation
New industries and jobs emerge in tech, digital marketing, e-commerce, and more.
Enables remote work and global business opportunities.
Healthcare Advancements
Telemedicine, electronic health records, and health monitoring improve patient care.
Faster medical research and data sharing.
Social Change and Inclusion
Empowers marginalized groups through access to information and platforms for voice.
Raises awareness on social issues and mobilizes communities.

Education: ICT offers vast learning resources through the internet, online courses, and
digital collaboration tools, making education more accessible
Access to Information
Vast resources and knowledge are available online, empowering learning and informed
decision-making.Promotes lifelong education and awareness.

Challenges and Risks

Privacy concerns, cybercrime, and digital divide where some lack access.
Overreliance on technology can affect social skills and mental health.

4. Digital Literacy and Responsible Use

Digital Literacy: This is the ability to find, evaluate, use, share, and create content using
digital devices. It is no longer an optional skill but a fundamental requirement for full
participation in modern society.

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Ethical Use: With the power of ICT comes responsibility. This includes protecting personal
data (privacy), identifying misinformation, preventing cyberbullying, and understanding the
environmental impact of technology.

Learning Activities. :
1. Activity 1 [41 minutes]: Technology in My Day Brainstorm
Task: Divide the class into groups with 5/6 members
Watch the videos about basic concepts about ICT.
Objective: To help participants recognize the ubiquitous nature of technology in their daily
lives and begin to differentiate between general technology and specific ICT.
Group Discussion: Share the key takeaways after watching the videos posted in class thru
their messenger or fb group .

2. Activity 2: [25 minutes] Future Tech Discussion

Task: In their groups,choose a leader,secretary,researcher,editor,English critic,quality
assurance Question for discussion: How do these technologies influence our life ? List down
in a 1 whole piece of yellow paper the applications/software/hardware they have utilized
individually and share them to the group.

Objectives:
1.To list down software/hardware technology which were utlizied by each member of the
group.
2. To review stock knowledge and understanding of core components of an ICT system in a
practical, relatable context.

Assessment Task:

30 item Quiz about the lesson[paper pencil or quizziz app]

Synthesis
We journeyed from a broad understanding of technology as a tool for human progress
to a focused examination of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) as the engine
of our digital age. We've established that ICT is not a single entity but a dynamic ecosystem of
five interconnected components: the physical hardware, the guiding software, the essential data
the connecting networks and the vital people who use it all. By understanding how these pillars
work together in everyday scenarios, from ordering a pizza to attending an online class, we can
see that ICT is the invisible architecture supporting much of modern life. We concluded by
recognizing that this powerful tool brings not only immense opportunity but also a shared
responsibility to be digitally literate, ethical, and mindful users.

Key Takeaways

• Technology is broad; ICT is specific. Technology is any tool that solves a problem;
ICT specifically deals with digital information and communication.
• All five components are essential. An ICT system fails if any one of its five pillars
(Hardware, Software, Data, Networks, People) is missing.
• Software tells hardware what to do.** This fundamental relationship is at the core of
how all computers work.

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• ICT is everywhere. It has fundamentally transformed communication, business,

education, and nearly every aspect of modern society.
• Digital literacy is a life skill. Being a responsible and effective user of technology is
crucial for personal and professional success.

References

Website:GCFGlobal.org - Offers excellent, free, and easy-to-understand tutorials on

computer basics, the internet, and popular software.

YouTube Channel: Crash Course Computer Science - A fun, fast-paced video series that
explains complex computer science topics in an accessible way.

Book The Shallows: What the Internet Is Doing to Our Brains* by Nicholas Carr - An
interesting read on the deeper societal and cognitive impacts of ICT.

Prepared by MBHA-Faculty COED Sumacab Campus