UNIT 1: Elements Of ICT

Introduction Of ICT

Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) is used in all spheres of life. It has
changed the way everything functions, be it learning, solving problems, or working.
The tools of ICT such as communications, networked computers, and media have
become crucial for the efficient working of all professions. Today, it is almost impossible
to imagine the functioning of organizations without these tools. ICT tools have changed
the time and space of learning and working, which has been beneficial for the students
as well as the working professionals. ICT as a whole is a combination of IT and CT,
where we collect, store, process, and transmit data through wired or wireless methods.

ICT comprises of two parts:

1. IT [Information technology]: It refers to the use of storing, processing, collecting data.

All the different components of the computer, like hardware and software, come under
this category.

2. CT [Communication technology]: It refers to the use of technology for

telecommunication, broadcasting media, audiovisual processing and transmitting
information, and transmitting information through wired or wireless networks.

What is ICT?

ICT, also known as Information and Communications Technology, is the

infrastructure that facilitates the communication of people and organizations in the
digital world. Generally, it includes applications, devices, systems, and networking
components that enable modern computing.

 Applications of ICT

ICT has a special provision in engineering and technology due to its widespread
applications in almost every profession. It has a great impact on our day to day lives.
Additionally, there are various roles and importance of ICT in almost every field. It has
significantly contributed to engineering and technology literacy. Moreover, ICT is

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expected to grow more in the coming years. Some of the applications of the ICT tools
are listed below:

1. ICT in Workplace:

From a small office to a big organization, computers are used directly or indirectly on
a daily basis according to the need. From transmitting data from one user to another
on a personal level or organizational level, data is transferred with the help of various
applications.

2. ICT in Education:

Nowadays, ICT is widely used by students for e-learning. Students take help from
various websites and applications which are available for clearing their concepts and
enhancing their skills. These websites and applications help the students to learn the
various concepts through animations and other resources.

3. ICT in Healthcare:

ICT plays a major role in healthcare from manufacturing and packaging to the
distribution of medicines. The various types of machinery used in hospitals like x-ray
machines, ECG, CT scan, MRI, etc., are also made with the help of ICT.

4. ICT in Governance:

The various schemes and benefits for the citizen are introduced by the government
through different digital portals. The government has recently announced a digital
India initiative to support ICT. To update your Aadhaar card, Passport or pay the
electricity and water bill, all can be done from the convenience of your home. ICT helps
the government in storing our personal data securely such as details on Aadhaar card,
ration card, pan card, and on different portals.

5. ICT in business:

Various e-businesses, telecom and marketing websites use ICT as a medium to

promote their websites. ICT helps the business industry from carrying out transactions

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 to delivering any item; ICT has done it all and made almost everything paperless and
user-friendly.

Role of ICT in Business:

o For recording the data

o For retrieving the previous data

o For maintaining the cash flow

o For maintaining the profit and loss

6. ICT in Banking :

Information and communication technology (ICT) has had many impacts on the
banking industry, including:

 ICT has made banking processes more efficient, which can reduce costs. For example,
banks can use online networks to process low-value transactions like bill payments
and balance inquiries.
 ICT has enabled banks to offer new products and services, such as online banking,
mobile banking, and ATMs.
 ICT has helped banks provide timely information to customers and improve customer
service
 Online transactions are more secure because they leave a trace that can help detect
fraud.

 ICT has allowed banks to apply credit-scoring techniques to consumer credits,

mortgages, or credit cards, making products more standardized.

 ICT has helped employees perform functions more efficiently and accurately, such as
balancing accounts and calculating interest.

 ICT has added new distribution channels to retail banking, such as online banking.

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  Advantages of ICT
 Communication: Time and money can be saved since information can be transferred
much more quickly. It is now speedier and more effective thanks to ICT.
 Globalization: Video conferencing reduces travel and lodging costs. ICT has enabled
the world economy to become a single interconnected system that allows one to contact
a business or family member and bring nations and people closer together.
 Cost-effectiveness: Sending an e-mail seems free, even when it isn't, and it is
unquestionably less expensive than making a phone call. ICT has also aided in the
automation of commercial procedures, reorganizing firms to make them incredibly
efficient.
 Greater accessibility: ICT has enabled businesses to be automated, providing
customers access to a site or voicemail seven days a week.
 Bridging the culture clash: More access to technology has made it possible for
individuals of different cultures to speak with one another and exchange ideas,
increasing awareness and decreasing prejudice.
 Creation of new employment: The emergence of new, fascinating occupations has
been the most significant benefit of ICT.
 Education: Computers, their programming, and the Internet have made it possible to
educate people in ways that were impossible for earlier generations.
 Complicated structure: Teachers can explain the complex system and lesson and
ensure students understand it thanks to ICT.
 Make Things Easier: Teachers may design interactive classrooms using ICT, which
makes the lesson more fun.
 GUI Enhance Learning: Images may be employed in education to enhance students'
long-term memory using ICT.

 Disadvantages of ICT

Job loss: ICT can lead to job loss, which can have negative social and economic
consequences.

Costly to implement: ICT can be expensive to set up, especially when providing digital
equipment for all students and teachers.

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Security risks: As more business activities move online, the risk of cyber-attacks
increases. Businesses need to invest in security measures to protect their systems and
data.

Lack of human touch: ICT can lack the personal touch and physical governance that
people need.

Lack of work security - Because technology is constantly evolving, experts in various

industries think that ICT has created job security a major problem. If people want to
feel comfortable in their work, they must continually learn new things or be aware of
developments in their field.

Privacy - Information technology may have boosted, simplified, and improved

communication, but it has also given rise to privacy concerns. People are increasingly
concerned that their formerly private information may become public knowledge due
to mobile phone signal interceptions and e-mail hacking. Apart from these issues,
Computer worms, Trojan horses, malware, spam, and phishing are a few of the various
threats that may ruin our daily lives.

Information Reliability: Just because something is online doesn't guarantee it is

dependable. Anybody with computer and internet access can create a blog or post
something on a website. The open-source encyclopedia Wikipedia is an excellent
illustration of this because, although being a good source of knowledge, academic
institutions do not accept it as a reliable source of references.

 Impact of ICT in business

1.Improved Communication

Faster Communication: Tools like email, instant messaging, and video conferencing
enable quick and efficient communication, regardless of geographic location.

Enhanced Collaboration: Cloud-based platforms such as Microsoft Teams, Slack,

and Zoom facilitate team collaboration, even in remote settings.

Customer Interaction: Chatbots and social media platforms enable businesses to

engage with customers 24/7.

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 2. Increased Efficiency and Productivity

 Automation: ICT tools automate repetitive tasks (e.g., inventory management,

payroll processing), allowing employees to focus on higher-value activities.

 Time Management: Project management software like Asana and Trello helps
streamline workflows and track progress effectively.

 Data Processing: Big data tools process large datasets quickly, enabling businesses
to make informed decisions.

3. Global Reach
E-Commerce: ICT has enabled businesses to sell products and services globally
through online platforms like Amazon, Shopify, and others.
Digital Marketing: Targeted advertising via social media and search engines helps
businesses reach specific audiences worldwide.

Remote Operations: Businesses can establish virtual offices and serve clients
across different time zones.

4. Cost Reduction
 Outsourcing: ICT enables businesses to outsource functions like customer support
or IT services to countries with lower operational costs.
 Digital Transformation: Transitioning to paperless systems and digital tools reduces
expenses associated with physical resources

 Communication Tools - Email, Chatting, Social Networking, Video

Conferencing
Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) are a range of tools and resources
that allow users to create, store, access, transmit, and share information. Some
examples of ICT tools used for communication include Email, Chatting, Social
Networking, Video Conferencing

1) Email

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 Email, or electronic mail, is a communication method that allows users to send and
receive messages over a computer network. It's one of the most popular ways to
communicate digitally, and is used for both personal and professional purposes.
History of Email
Email originated in the 1960s, initially used in closed computer systems. By the 1970s,
Ray Tomlinson implemented the first system to send messages between users on
different computers connected via ARPANET ( Advanced Research Projects Agency
Network)., the precursor to the internet. This development popularized the "@" symbol
in email addresses. Over time, email evolved with advancements in networking and
internet technology.
Features
 It is faster and more secure than conventional mail
 It requires less physical effort to edit and send a letter of communication.
 Once the hardware, software, and internet connection are in place, email on the
Internet is free, even if messages is to be sent to other side of the world.
 Unlike communication by telephone, email does not require the attention of both
parties as the same times.
Basic Structure of Email File
An email file is basically divided into three section “Header, Body & Attachment”.
The Attachment section is normally included within the email body part. But during
email attachment analysis process it will be considered as a separate section and also
the attachments may be a video, image, document or other types of files.

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 From

 Identifies the sender's email address.

 Example: john.doe@example.com
 Purpose: Allows the recipient to recognize the sender and reply directly.

To

 Specifies the recipient's email address.

 Can include one or multiple recipients.
 Example: jane.smith@example.com

Subject

 A short, descriptive line summarizing the email's purpose.

 Example: "Meeting Agenda for Nov 15"
 Purpose: Helps the recipient quickly understand the topic and prioritize the email.

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 Body (Content)

 The main message of the email, typically divided into:

o Introduction: States the purpose of the email.
o Details: Explains the content or request.
o Conclusion: Summarizes the message and includes a call to action if needed.
 Example: "Dear Jane, Please find the attached agenda for our meeting. Let me know
if you have any suggestions. Regards, John."

Attachments

 Files or documents included with the email, such as PDFs, images, or spreadsheets.
 Example: Agenda.pdf
 Purpose: Provides additional information or resources that complement the email
content.

2) Chatting
Chatting refers to informal, real-time communication between two or more people,
usually via text. It’s often done through messaging apps or online platforms
Chatting can take different forms, depending on the medium or platform used. Here
are a few common types:
1.Text Messaging (SMS): Traditional messaging through mobile phones, often short
and direct. It’s quick and can be done individually or in groups.
2.Instant Messaging (IM): Online communication platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook
Messenger, or Telegram, where users can send text, images, and videos in real time.
3.Chat Rooms: Online spaces where multiple users can join and participate in group
discussions, usually on a particular topic. Examples include IRC (Internet Relay Chat)
or forums with live chat features.
Voice/Video Chat: Conversations that use audio or video instead of text, often through
apps like Skype, Zoom, or Google Meet. This provides more personal interaction and
allows real-time voice and visual communication.
Customer Support Chat: Many businesses use chat functions on their websites or
apps to provide real-time customer support, often through live chat or chatbots

3. Social Networking

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 Social networking platforms are digital environments where users can create profiles,
establish connections with others, share content, and engage in discussions. The
primary purpose is to enable seamless communication, foster relationships, and
build communities across geographical and cultural boundaries.

Businesses utilize social media platforms to market and promote their

products and track customer concerns. The diversity of independent & formed
social media services that are typically provided presents challenges to the concept of
social media, yet it is nonetheless crucial in many people's lives.

Popular Examples

 Facebook: Connecting friends, families, and communities.

 LinkedIn: Professional networking for career and business development.
 Instagram: Visual-based sharing for personal and business branding.
 Twitter (now X): Microblogging platform for real-time updates and conversations.
 TikTok: Short-form video sharing for entertainment and education.

 Benefits Social Networking

o User awareness
Social media platforms make it simple for people to discuss things and content.
Especially in developing nations, Utilising social networking sites is connected to
having more friends and more diversified social interactions, particularly in developing
countries. Regardless of the fact that 57% of youngsters have an internet friend, many
teenage people's relationships might start online.

o Advertising companies and goods.

These platforms offer businesses the chance to immediately market their items and
services to a sizable market. Businesses can utilize social media to grow their fan base
and explore new markets. In certain cases, content from social media actually acts as
the finished product.

o Creating an audience.

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 Social media helps create a marketplace for the goods that companies and artists
generate. In other cases, the need for a distributor has been removed by social media,
which allows anyone to publish their work and do business online. For instance,
amateur musicians can post a song on Fb, which is immediately seen by their fans,
who subsequently forward it to their contacts.

 What Issues Are Social Media Platforms

Social networking may be challenging for regular users in the ways indicated below:

 Concern about mental health.

Overuse of social media apps can result in stress, social media addiction, as well as
other issues. Individuals can discover the filter bubbles. They give the impression of
open conversation when the visitor is really confined to an online group created using
an algorithm.

o Fake news and manipulation.

The dissemination of disinformation, which is purposely false information meant to
deceive others, is encouraged by aggressive societies.

Organizations face both general and unique social media challenges.

o Inappropriate articles
Corporate network and company communications systems discussions frequently
deviate into unrelated subjects. When that happens, there is a possibility that
colleagues will differ or be offended. It could be difficult to manage these talks and filter
out offensive words.

o Safety and resilience.

Participatory tool features might not be in line with existing standards for data
safeguarding and preservation. Because of this, organizations might have to deal with
security challenges and legal problems.

o Problems with the efficiency of social connection

Whether in person or over the phone, it can divert from work and reduce productivity.

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 4) Video Conferencing :

Video conferencing is an essential ICT (Information and Communication

Technology) communication tool that allows real-time audio and video interactions
between individuals or groups in different locations. It has become a cornerstone of
modern communication in various domains, including business, education,
healthcare, and social interactions.

 Key Features of Video Conferencing Tools:

1. Real-Time Communication: Facilitates live video and audio communication,

enhancing interaction and collaboration.
2. Screen Sharing: Allows participants to share their screens for presentations,
tutorials, or document collaboration.
3. Recording Capabilities: Many tools enable recording of sessions for later reference
or sharing.
4. Text Chat: Offers a chat feature for instant messaging during the meeting.
5. File Sharing: Enables sharing of documents, images, or other files.
6. Virtual Backgrounds: Provides options to change or blur backgrounds for a
professional appearance.
7. Integration: Seamlessly integrates with calendars, email clients, and project
management tools.
8. Breakout Rooms: Splits participants into smaller groups for discussions or
activities.
9. Participant Management: Includes controls for muting/unmuting, adding/removing
participants, and moderating discussions.

 Popular Video Conferencing Tools :

 Zoom: Known for its ease of use, breakout rooms, and robust security.
 Microsoft Teams: Integrates well with Office 365, ideal for businesses.
 Google Meet: User-friendly and integrated with Google Workspace.
 Cisco Webex: Feature-rich and popular for corporate use.
 Skype: Long-standing tool, ideal for personal and small business communication.

Different ICT Tools

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 ICT (Information and Communication Technology) tools are essential resources that
facilitate information processing, communication, and digital tasks. They are
categorized based on their application and purpose. Here's a breakdown of common
ICT tools:

1. Communication Tools

These tools enable information sharing and collaboration:

 Email Services: Gmail, Outlook, Yahoo Mail.

 Instant Messaging: WhatsApp, Slack, Microsoft Teams.
 Video Conferencing: Zoom, Google Meet, Skype.
 Social Media Platforms: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn.
 VoIP Services: Skype, Vonage, Google Voice.

2. Productivity Tools

Used for creating, editing, and managing documents:

 Word Processing: Microsoft Word, Google Docs, LibreOffice Writer.

 Spreadsheets: Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets.
 Presentation Software: Microsoft PowerPoint, Google Slides, Prezi.
 Project Management: Trello, Asana, Monday.com.
 Note-taking Apps: Evernote, OneNote, Notion.

3. Data Management and Analysis Tools

For handling and analyzing data:

 Database Software: Microsoft Access, MySQL, Oracle Database.

 Data Visualization: Tableau, Power BI, Google Data Studio.
 Statistical Analysis: SPSS, R, Python (with libraries like Pandas and Matplotlib).

4. Educational Tools

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 Enhancing learning and teaching:

 Learning Management Systems (LMS): Moodle, Blackboard, Canvas.

 E-Learning Platforms: Coursera, Udemy, Khan Academy.
 Interactive Whiteboards: SMART Board, Promethean.
 Quiz and Assessment Tools: Kahoot!, Quizizz, Socrative.

5. Creative Tools

For design and multimedia creation:

 Graphic Design: Adobe Photoshop, Canva, CorelDRAW.

 Video Editing: Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, DaVinci Resolve.
 Audio Editing: Audacity, GarageBand, Adobe Audition.
 Animation Software: Blender, Maya, Adobe Animate.

6. Networking and Internet Tools

For internet access and connectivity:

 Web Browsers: Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge.

 File Sharing: Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive.
 Cloud Computing: AWS, Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud Platform.

7. Security Tools

For data protection and security:

 Antivirus Software: Norton, McAfee, Kaspersky.

 Firewall Tools: pfSense, ZoneAlarm.
 Password Managers: LastPass, Dashlane, 1Password.

8. Specialized Tools

Tools for specific fields:

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 Healthcare: Electronic Health Records (EHR) like Epic, Cerner.
 Finance: QuickBooks, Tally, SAP.
 Engineering: AutoCAD, MATLAB, SolidWorks.

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