Application of ICT in Everyday Life

CLASS: JSS ONE

Information and Communication Technology (ICT)

Meaning of ICT

ICT is an acronym that stands for Information and Communication Technology.

Definition of ICT

• ICT can be defined as technologies that provide access to information through telecommunications.
• Information and Communication Technology deals with the use of diverse technological tools and resources to convert, store, protect, process, transmit, and retrieve information.

It comprises computers, networks, satellite communications, robots, videotext, cable television, electronic mail, electronic games, and automated office equipment.

Uses of ICT

The three main uses of ICT include the following:

1. Communication
   Information can be transmitted from one place to another with the use of ICT. For example, sending and receiving e-mail messages, making phone calls, audio and video conferencing, sending and receiving fax messages, and instant messaging.
2. Information Processing and Management
   It can be used in storing, retrieving, and manipulating data and information, typing letters, notes, and other documents, keeping records of inventory, and transmitting information.
3. Timing and Control
   It can be used in manipulating and controlling equipment in aircraft, ships, oil rigs, automated teller machines (ATMs), and scientific research. It can also be used in monitoring and reporting on the status of equipment.

ICT and the Society

Today, almost the whole world depends on ICT. Every organization depends on information technology. Learning institutions, industries, banks, hospitals, supermarkets, etc., all use it to carry out their daily activities. ICT has led to the development of so many things and reduced the world to a global village.

ICT and Development of Society

The impacts of ICT on society include:

1. Education
   ICT is being used in schools by students and teachers for searching for knowledge and educational materials.
2. Commerce
   ICT has brought about the easiest way of buying and selling goods on the internet, which is called e-commerce (Electronic Commerce). In e-commerce, the prospective buyer will book or register for the needed goods or services, which will be delivered to them within a stipulated time.
3. Communication
   ICT has been a major part of communication, with the use of the internet and video conferencing; one can communicate with other people outside one's country.
4. Banking
   ICT has made all banks go online, giving them internet access in their branches, which makes transactions easier. The use of Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) is connected to the internet and pays money to different bank customers.
5. Manufacturing
   ICT is used in almost all manufacturing companies, e.g., the Textile industry, AutoCAD in engineering, etc. This makes it simple for industries and factories to produce many things within a few minutes or hours since everything has been programmed.
6. Libraries
   Almost all libraries are now using information and communication technology (ICT), allowing one to check books in and out.

Test Your Knowledge

Select the correct answer for each question and click 'Submit' to see your score.

1. What does ICT stand for?

A) Internet and Computer Technology B) Information and Communication Technology C) Information and Computing Tools D) International Computer Tools

2. Which of the following is an example of ICT's use for communication?

A) Storing documents on a computer. B) Making a phone call. C) Using a self-service ATM. D) Manufacturing a textile product.

3. What is the term for buying and selling goods online using ICT?

A) e-banking B) e-learning C) e-commerce D) e-market

4. The use of ATMs in banking is an example of which use of ICT?

A) Timing and Control B) Communication C) Education D) Information Processing

5. How has ICT affected the world, according to the text?

A) By making it more difficult to communicate. B) By increasing the number of physical libraries. C) By reducing the world to a global village. D) By only benefiting large corporations.

6. Which of the following is NOT one of the three main uses of ICT listed on the page?

A) Communication B) Information Processing and Management C) Entertainment and Gaming D) Timing and Control