Adventist Adventurer Awards and Answers/Technology (formerly Computer Skills)

Technology (formerly Computer Skills)
Helping Hand

Explain the purpose of each item

Computer system

The purpose of the computer is to perform calculations, store information, retrieve data and process information. A computer has programmed data or computer language that tells the computer how to fulfill its purpose. The computer will only do what it is programmed to do. Hence, the saying: "computers do not make mistakes; people do."

Monitor

A computer monitor is a display adapter that displays information processed by the computer's video card. When a video card or graphics card converts binary information from 1s and 0s into images, these images are displayed onto the directly connected monitor. There are different types of monitors, including cathode ray tube (CRT) and liquid crystal displays (LCD). Monitors have display functions that include powering it on and off, controlling brightness, contrast and position, among others.

Mouse

The purpose of a computer mouse is to help users to easily navigate software applications that are installed on a computer. A computer mouse comes in different types: the traditional ball mouse, the optical mouse and the touchpad.

Keyboard

The main purpose of a keyboard is as an input device used to send data into a computer so applications can function as the user desires. A keyboard is one of the commonly used devices when working with computers.

Central Processing Unit

A computer's CPU is considered the "brain of the computer," being responsible for its major processes, like searching for information, sorting information, making calculations and advanced processes as well as decisions integral to the functioning of the computer. The acronym CPU actually stands for central processing unit and, as such, works behind virtually any task the user is doing on their computer, like writing essays, making photo albums or reading emails. The CPU is made out of a very complex silicon integrated circuit board mounted with tiny, microscopic transistors that can easily number in the billions.

Hard disk

The main purpose of a hard disk drive is to operate as a storage device for data. A hard disk stores data internally by recording it on metallic plates that are charged electromagnetically. As of 2015, hard drives can store many gigabytes of data.

Scanner

A scanner is a digital device that converts films, documents and photographic prints to digital images. It scans documents, which can be sent to a computer, printer, flash drive or email address.

CD ROM

CD ROM refers to a type of compact disc that can only be read by a computer; its contents cannot be erased or altered. Due to this feature, CD ROMs have become a popular media format for storing retail features.

Modem

Modems provide point-to-point communication between two digital devices using analog circuits. Modems convert digital signals to analog signals, transmit them and then convert the analog signals back to digital signals.

Printer

The purpose of a printer is to accept typed text and graphic images from a computer and transfer it to paper. Printers are sometimes sold along with computers, but consumers typically purchase them separately. Printers vary greatly in cost, speed, size and function.

Network

The purpose of a computer network is that of sharing resources and data between computer systems. Those shared resources would include that of data storage, printers and other devices. Computer networking allows the sharing of a feature such as a DVD player from one computer to another in the network that does not have a DVD player, as an example of shared resources.

Diskette

A floppy disk drive (FDD) is a small disk drive used in computers for data transfer, storage and backup of small amounts of data, as well as installation of programs and driver updates. A floppy disk drive accesses data recorded on small, removable diskettes known as floppy disks. Floppy disk drives were widely used throughout the '90s but has since become obsolete in favor of other removable storage media such as CDs, DVDs and compact flash drives.

What are computers good for?

Documents and books

Word processors are primarily designed to create letters, reports, and documents. Desktop publishing programs help combine graphics with text.

Databases

Programs that allow you to manipulate, store, record, and retrieve information from a collection of related files: like addresses, memberships, or store inventories.

Calculations

Spreadsheets are made for math calculations for accounting or record- keeping purposes.

Communications

Cover the Internet, E-mail, and the world wide web. Talk about the need to use discipline to bypass the bad information and how to use the good information.

Research

Current resource materials for research are available in minutes through the Internet services. You can also use material from CD-ROMs or other resource software. Computerized searches are fast, and sometimes give you more ideas. One such CD is the E. G. White Library or an encyclopedia CD.

Fun

There will always be games. Computer games can be good if they challenge your mind and mental skills as well as your dexterity. Put it to the test of Phillipians 4:8. All of our computer work should meet that standard. Resource Material

Do one of the following

Visit an office and see how a computer helps that person with their work.

computer

Know the home row of the keyboard.

Show the proper hand position on the keyboard.

http://www.freetypinggame.net/proper-hand-placement.asp

Explain why proper hand position is important.

Good typing posture is important to reduce both dynamic and static loads you place on muscles. Dynamic load refers to the pressure you place on muscles during movement. This can include the movement of your arms, hands and fingers as you type, as well as head and neck movements. The relaxing and contracting that make up dynamic movements require a body position that allows for deeper breathing and sufficient blood flow to the active muscles. Static load refers to the pressure you place on inactive muscles, such as those in your back and shoulders.