Introduction to Computing (Week 2 – Week 3)

What is Computing
Computing is the study of information processing and the use of computers to solve problems. It
is a broad field that encompasses a wide range of topics, including computer hardware, software,
programming languages, algorithms, and data structures.
Examples of Computing
 Using a computer to create a document, such as a letter or essay.
 Using a computer to browse the internet and access information.
 Using a computer to send and receive emails.
 Using a computer to play games or watch videos.
 Using a computer to develop and test new software.
 Using a computer to analyze data and solve complex problems.
 Using a computer to control machines and devices.
 Using a computer to create and render digital art and animation.

Types of Computers
There are many different types of computers, each designed for a specific purpose. Some
common types of computers include:
 Personal computers (PCs)
 Laptops
 Tablets
 Smartphones
 Servers
 Supercomputer

Components of a Computer System

A computer system is a collection of hardware and software components that work together to
process data and produce information.
A computer system is made up of two main components: hardware and software.
Hardware is the physical components of a computer system, such as the CPU, memory, storage
devices, and input/output devices.
The following are the main components of a computer hardware system:
 Central Processing Unit (CPU): The CPU is the brain of the computer. It is responsible
for executing instructions and processing data.
 Memory: Memory is used to store data and instructions that the CPU is currently using.
There are two main types of memory: random access memory (RAM) and read-only
memory (ROM). RAM is used to store data and instructions that are currently being used
by the CPU. ROM is used to store the computer's basic input/output system (BIOS)
software.
 Storage: Storage is used to store data and programs that the computer is not currently
using. Storage devices include hard drives, solid-state drives (SSDs), and optical drives.
 Input/Output (I/O) devices: I/O devices allow the user to interact with the computer and
to send and receive data. Examples of I/O devices include keyboards, mice, monitors,
printers, and speakers.

Software is the programs that run on a computer system, such as the operating system,
application software, and utility software.
 Operating systems: Operating systems are the software that controls the computer's
hardware and resources. Examples of operating systems include Windows, macOS,
Linux, and Chrome OS.
 Application software: Application software is the software that users interact with to
perform specific tasks. Examples of application software include web browsers, word
processors, spreadsheets, email clients, and photo editing software.
 Utility software: Utility software is the software that performs specific tasks related to the
maintenance and operation of the computer. Examples of utility software include
antivirus software, disk defragmenters, and backup software.
 Embedded software: Embedded software is the software that is embedded in devices such
as cars, smartphones, and medical equipment. Embedded software controls the operation
of the device and provides features for the user.
Here are some specific examples of software that are popular in different industries:
 Business: Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace, Salesforce, SAP ERP
 Education: Blackboard Learn, Canvas, Moodle, Google Classroom
 Healthcare: Electronic health records (EHRs), medical imaging software,
telemedicine software
 Government: Tax preparation software, electronic voting systems, law
enforcement software
 Entertainment: Video games, streaming video software, music editing software
Applications of Computing
Computing is a broad field that encompasses a wide range of technologies, including computers,
software, networks, and databases. These technologies are used to solve problems and improve
efficiency in a wide range of industries.
Computing is used in a wide range of applications, including:
Business: Computing is used to automate business processes, manage data, and communicate
with customers and suppliers.
Education: Computing is used to deliver online courses, create educational resources, and assess
student learning.
Government: Computing is used to provide citizen services, manage infrastructure, and national
security.
Healthcare: Computing is used to develop new medical treatments, diagnose diseases, and
provide patient care.
Entertainment: Computing is used to create video games, movies, and music

Significance of Computing
Computing is important for a number of reasons. First, computing allows us to process large
amounts of information quickly and efficiently. This is essential for many tasks, such as scientific
research, financial analysis, and medical diagnosis.
Second, computing allows us to communicate with people all over the world. This has made it
possible for businesses to operate globally and for people to stay connected with friends and
family members who live far away.
Third, computing has revolutionized many industries. For example, the development of
computer-aided design (CAD) software has made it possible to design and manufacture products
more efficiently. And the development of electronic medical records (EMRs) has improved the
quality of healthcare delivery.

Industry in the Profession

Computer Science Specialists play a vital role in the modern economy. They are responsible for
developing and maintaining the computer systems and networks that businesses and
organizations rely on to operate. They also play a key role in developing new technologies and
products.
Computing professionals work in a wide variety of industries, including:
  Business and finance: Computing professionals in this industry use their skills to develop
and maintain software applications for businesses and financial institutions.
 Education: Computing professionals in this industry develop and use educational
software and technologies to teach students about different subjects.
 Government: Computing professionals in this industry work for government agencies to
develop and maintain software systems, websites, and other IT infrastructure.
 Healthcare: Computing professionals in this industry develop and use software
applications to manage patient records, diagnose diseases, and deliver healthcare
services.
 Manufacturing: Computing professionals in this industry develop and use software
applications to design and manufacture products.
 Technology: Computing professionals in this industry develop and maintain hardware
and software products and services.

Skills and Qualifications Required for Different Computing Jobs

The skills and qualifications required for different computing jobs vary depending on the specific
job. However, most computing jobs require a strong foundation in computer science and
information technology. Many computing jobs also require specific skills and certifications, such
as:
 Programming languages: Programming languages are the tools that software engineers
and web developers use to create software applications. Common programming
languages include Java, Python, and C++.
 Databases: Databases are used to store and organize data. Common database management
systems include MySQL, PostgreSQL, and Oracle Database.
 Networking: Networking is the technology that allows computers to communicate with
each other. Common networking technologies include TCP/IP and Ethernet.
 Information Security: Information security is the practice of protecting computer systems
and networks from attack. Common information security technologies include firewalls,
intrusion detection systems, and encryption.

Career Paths in Computing

There are many different career paths in computing. Some computing professionals start their
careers in entry-level positions, such as technical support specialist or software tester. With
experience, they can advance to more senior positions, such as software engineer or systems
analyst.
Other computing professionals pursue graduate degrees in computer science or information
technology. This can lead to careers in research, teaching, or management.
An Appreciation of Computing in Different Fields
Appreciating computing in different fields means understanding the ways that computing is used
to improve the efficiency, accuracy, and effectiveness of work in those fields. It also means
understanding the impact that computing has had on the development of new products and
services.
A. Computing in Healthcare
Computing is used in healthcare in a variety of ways, including:
 To develop new medical treatments and diagnostic tools.
 To improve the accuracy and efficiency of healthcare delivery.
 To provide patients with access to information and resources.
B. Computing in Education
Computing is used in education in a variety of ways, including:
 To deliver online courses and educational resources.
 To enhance instruction in the classroom.
 To assess student learning and provide feedback.
C. Computing in Business
Computing is used in business in a variety of ways, including:
 To automate business processes.
 To manage data and information.
 To communicate with customers and suppliers.
 To develop new products and services.
D. Computing in Government
Computing is used in government in a variety of ways, including:
 To provide citizen services.
 To manage infrastructure and national security.
 To conduct research and development.
E. Computing in Entertainment
Computing is used in entertainment in a variety of ways, including:
  To create video games, movies, and music.
 To deliver entertainment content to consumers.
 To develop new forms of entertainment.

Different Specialization
Computer science is a broad field that encompasses a wide range of specializations. Each
specialization focuses on a different aspect of computer science, such as software engineering,
web development, data science, machine learning, artificial intelligence, information security,
computer networking, database administration, game development, graphics and animation,
human-computer interaction, computational science, and information technology.
Choosing a specialization is an important decision for computer science students and
professionals. It allows you to focus your studies and career on the areas of computer science
that you are most interested in and passionate about.
There are many factors to consider when choosing a specialization, such as your interests, skills,
and career goals. It is also important to consider the job market and the types of jobs that are
available in each specialization.
Once you have chosen a specialization, you can focus your studies and career on that area. This
may involve taking specialized courses, attending conferences, and networking with other
professionals in your field.
Here are some of the most common specializations in computing:
Software Engineering: Software engineers design, develop, and test software applications.
Web Development: Web developers design, develop, and maintain websites.
Mobile Development: Mobile developers design, develop, and maintain mobile apps.
Data Science: Data scientists collect, clean, and analyze data to extract insights.
Machine Learning: Machine learning engineers develop and deploy machine learning systems.
Artificial Intelligence: AI researchers and engineers develop and deploy artificial intelligence
systems.
Information Security: Cybersecurity professionals protect computer systems and networks from
cyberattacks.
Computer Networking: Computer network engineers design, implement, and maintain computer
networks.
Database Administration: Database administrators manage and maintain databases.
Game Development: Game developers design, develop, and test video games.
Graphics and Animation: Graphics and animation artists create and edit digital graphics and
animations.
Human-Computer Interaction: Human-computer interaction designers create and evaluate user
interfaces and user experiences.
Computational Science: Computational scientists use computers to solve scientific problems.
Information Technology: IT professionals manage and maintain computer systems and networks.

References:
 Discovering Computers ©2018: Digital Technology, Data, and Devices by Cengage
Learning (2018)
 Introduction to Computing by David Chappell (2019)
 Computing Concepts by Steve McConnell (2020)
 Computing Essentials by Tim Williams (2021)
 Introduction to Computing and Programming in Python by Mark Lutz (2022)
 Career Opportunities in Information Technology by Robert A. Kelly and Marcia S. Kelly
(2023)
 Information Technology for Managers by Ralph Stair and George Reynolds (2022)
 Systems Analysis and Design by Kenneth E. Kendall and James E. Kendall (2021)
 Database Systems: Concepts, Design, and Applications by Ramez Elmasri and Shamkant
B. Navathe (2020)
 Software Engineering: A Practitioner's Approach by Roger S. Pressman (2019)
 Discovering Computers ©2018: Digital Technology, Data, and Devices by Cengage
Learning (2018)