Application of ICT in Everyday Life

CLASS: JSS ONE

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 the other 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, chatting and instant messages etc.
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, transmitting information etc.
3. Timing and Control
It can be used in manipulating and controlling equipment used in aircraft, ships, oil rings, automated teller machines (ATMs), and scientific research. It can also be used in monitoring and reporting on the status of equipment etc.

ICT and the Society

Today, almost the whole world depends on ICT. No organization cannot do without information technology. Learning institutions, industries, banks, hospitals, supermarkets etc all depend on it in carrying 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 in society include:
(a) Education
ICT is been used in schools by students and teachers in searching for knowledge and educative materials.
(b) 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.
(c) Communication
ICT has been a major part of communication, the use of the internet, and video conferencing; one can communicate with other people outside one's country.
(d) Banking
ICT has made all banks go online i.e. have internet access in their branches which makes their transactions easier. The use of Automated Teller Machine (ATM) is connected to the internet which pays money to different bank customers.
(e) Manufacturing
ICT is used in almost all manufacturing companies e.g. Textile industry, AutoCAD in engineering etc. this makes it so simple for industries/factories to produce many things within a few minutes or hours since everything has been programmed.
(f) Libraries
Almost all libraries are now using information and communication technology (ICT) one can log books in and out.