Digital+Literacy

Digital Literacy Edit[| 0] 0 [| 9]… "Information technology (IT) or information and communication technology (ICT) is the technology required for information processing. In particular the use of electronic computers and computer software to convert, store, protect, process, transmit, and retrieve information from anywhere, anytime." (Source: [])

We will be examining Information Technology as it relates to the world of business. Your teacher will give you in-class lessons on all the units that make up this wonderful course. The activities you see in checklists are meant to be done in order. Most of the work can and should be done in class. Your teacher will collect some or all of the activities for evaluation.

= Activity #1: Personal Computer =

The personal computer is one of the more meaningful inventions of our time. Get caught up on the history of the personal computer by reading this [|article]. It's hard to imagine a day go by where we don't use computers for personal or business use. Navigate to Intel's [|Journey Inside a Computer] site and be prepared to be able to explain what each of the four functions of a computer do.

= Activity #2: File Management =

We will create many files in this course. It is vital they are organized for quick access. Use My Computer or Windows Explorer (in Program Files/Accessories) to create a main folder for this course called BTT. You can use the new folder icon or right-click New, Folder. Then, within BTT, create these new folders exactly:


 * Digital Literacy and Word-Processing
 * Business Communication
 * Spreadsheets
 * Databases
 * Electronic Presentations
 * Desktop Publishing
 * Web Page Design
 * Final Unit

Finally, make sure you can search for files (Start, Search, Files and Folders). Do a sample search for all files of a certain type. E.g., *.jpg would show all jpeg graphic files; H*.doc would show all Word files starting with H

= Activity #3: Effective Searching =

Trying to find information on the internet can be a daunting task. Most likely what you need is there, somewhere. To learn how search engines work and how to use useful shortcuts, watch this short video:

While we often use Google as a verb, there are several ways to search for information more effectively. Carefully read the information on the[|Google Cheat Sheet].

Using the Google Cheat Sheet above, create examples and results for each of the //operator// examples. Save your examples in a document named // Effective Searching //.

= = = Activity #4: Computer Terms =

This course will help you improve your digital literacy. Whether you use the computer for doing school assignments, chatting with friends or playing on-line games, the focus here is to improve your digital literacy. We'll begin by developing an appreciation of the technology that surrounds us. In your word-processor, create a file called computer terms and save in your work folder. All words below should be defined in this file. Sometimes you are given the definition. Start by using your internet access and a web browser. Navigate to [|this site]. Once there find a short, working definition of ** //digital literacy// **. Add it to your computer terms file. In this file, there are many technical terms. Some, like computer, you'll be familiar with. Other terms such as hardware and software may need some explanation to see where everything fits.

Use the sites below to find definitions for the following terms:

Personal Computer, Hardware, Software, Motherboard, CPU, Random Access Memory (RAM), Hard Drive, CD-ROM, DVD, Sound Card, Video Card, Modem, Helvetica, USB, Infrastructure, Network (of computers), Internet, Intranet, World Wide Web.
 * [|Webopedia] || [|BC Gov't] || [|Easton's Links] || [|Hyperdictionary] || [|PC Repair Guide] || [|Foldoc] ||

= Activity #5: Software =

There are two main types of software: Operating System Software and Application Software.

Research both and briefly define with examples for each. For example, Microsoft Windows 7 is an operating system software.

Briefly research and outline the main features of the most popular types of operating system software including Microsoft's Window's 7, Vista, XP, 2000, 98, Mac OS, and Linux.

Save as software.

= Activity #6: Networks =

The following site has easy-to-read information on [|networks]. Read Chapter One only!

Add definitions, advantages and disadvantages, and an example for each of ** LAN **, **MAN**  and **WAN**  to a file named // network memo //.

Check the word-pro unit for your formatting challenge in this one.

= Activity #7: Security =

Security has become an important issue, especially when it relates to sensitive information contained on computers and networks. But there are ways individuals and companies can reduce the risk of being "hacked".

<span style="color: #000000; font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Read the article [|10 Basic Online Security Rules]. Try to understand each rule.

= Activity #8: Computer Viruses =

Viruses are nasty when working with computers. Simply put, they are another type of software file. The consequences can be devastating though, depending on what events occur when the software is run.

Read the article [|How do computer viruses work] and answer the five questions that follow.

1. Define "virus". 2. Describe a "trojan horse". 3. Describe a "worm". 4. Determine six important steps in virus protection from these [|do's and dont's]. 5. What is the [|most popular(!)] virus or worm currently wreaking havoc on computers? What does it do?

Save as virus.

= = = = = Activity #9: Spyware =

Our increased use of the computer both at work and at home has led to many issues. Our privacy has come under attack as the same technology we use to surf the web has enabled others to learn about our surfing habits and use the information, often in annoying ways. Read the following [|web page] and answer the questions below in your own words. Create a document with the title Spyware and save as spyware.
 * 1) Define spyware.
 * 2) Why do businesses advertise?
 * 3) Define ad-supported software.
 * 4) What is an advantage of ad-supported software for businesses?
 * 5) Define Adware.
 * 6) How does Adware work?
 * 7) What is a software program that contains Adware.
 * 8) What are the two basic ways of removing spyware? [|Read here!]

= Activity #10: Ergonomics =

The term ergonomics has an important meaning in the world of business. It means: "//The study of the design and arrangement of equipment so that people will interact with the equipment in a healthy, comfortable, and efficient manner. As related to computer equipment, ergonomics is concerned with such factors as the physical design of the keyboard, screens, and related hardware, and the manner in which people interact with these hardware devices//."

Go to this site and copy the [|12 tips for an Ergonomic Computer Workstation] into a new file called ergonomic tips.

Now go to Google Images and search for "ergonomic tips". Choose a suitable picture to go along with those 12 tips.

Copy that graphic above your 12 points. Make sure it fits on to one page.

Should we always sit down at a desk? [|This article] suggests it is unhealthy to do so. Read it and discuss with other students.

Even a computer mouse can become too much. This is a file that details [|shortcuts] available on most keyboards.

= Activity #11: Evaluating Websites =

Read [|Five Criteria for Evaluating Websites] and //briefly summarize// the five criteria mentioned below to ensure your research comes from a valid source and a reputable website. Save your answers to a file named evaluating websites.
 * Accuracy
 * Authority
 * Objectivity
 * Currency
 * Coverage

Use Google or another search engine of your choice to __find a web page that fulfills all of the above__. Cite the url and briefly state how each of the five criteria are met.

= Activity #12: Ethics and Issues in ICT =

Do a google search keying in this: define:ethics. What did your results show? Probably many definitions that mention morality and the study of right and wrong. It is interesting to investigate how we differ in terms of ethics. This activity will involve studying ethics as it relates to a topic in our course. Choose a topic from below and inform your teacher of your choice. Then follow the instructions in the word-processing unit to create a great report. Here is an article to read to get you started: [|Top Five Computer Crimes and How to Protect Yourself From Them.]

Acceptable Advertising Artificial Intelligence Browser Hijacking Censorship Copyright Credit Card Fraud CyberEthics: Rights and Responsibilities in Cyberspace Databanks Employee Monitoring Hacking Identity Theft Intellectual Property Rights and Information Ownership Personal Privacy in the Information Age Phishing Piracy Plagiarism Security Software Spam Viruses Topic of your choice approved by teacher

These websites can help you: [|Ethics in Computing Site] [|Workshops] [|Ethics Archive] [|Ten Commandments] [|Computer Ethics] [|Ethics on the Internet]

=MEETING WITH TEACHER #1 - [|Meeting Items.odt]= = <span style="color: #0000ff; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: 25.4833px;">Project #1: Home Office =

<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Fast forward four years. You have just graduated from BHS but instead of heading off to college or university you decide to create a partnership with a friend from your BTT class, and open up a business. You will run the business from home by converting a 10’ x 12’ room into a home office.

<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">You have $5 000 to complete the home office and you have narrowed your purchases to the following three websites.

<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">staples.ca <span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> smartoffice.ca <span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> officedepot.ca

__<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Tasks to complete __


 * 1) <span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Do a Google search to find the “10 tips for setting up your first home office?”
 * 2) <span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Using all 10 tips, create your home office.
 * 3) <span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Use Word or any other program available, at school, to create your floor layout.
 * 4) <span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Calculate the total cost (including taxes) to complete the home office.
 * 5) <span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Prepare a 5-minute presentation that provides the audience with an explanation of the layout of the home office and addresses any three of the 10 tips found in the article.

__<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Evaluation __

//<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Knowledge //<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> 5 · <span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;">Hardware needs (computer, software, printer, telephones, etc.) //<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Thinking //<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> 5 · <span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;">Functionality and efficiency of home office //<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Application //<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> 5 · <span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;">Use of software program to create the home office //<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Communication //<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"> 5 · <span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif; font-size: 13.3333px;">Delivery of required information

= Project #2: Tech TV =

So many technical innovations have occured in the last 25 years that it is hard to imagine where we are headed. Our task is to put on a presentation in our classroom that is an investigation into some of these technologies. Your tasks: Two students will serve as "co-anchors" of the Tech TV program. The co-anchors will be responsible for producing the program: introductions, script, transitions, commercials, etc. The following sites will provide you with a list of potential topics. No duplication of topics.
 * 1) Find a partner!
 * 2) Research an innovative piece of technology.
 * 3) Prepare a 5-minute presentation to explain the evolution of the technology.
 * 4) Create a poster that will be used as an aide for the presentation.

[|Top Tech Gadgets] [|CNN Top 25 Innovations] [|Forbes Future Tech] [|Popular Science]

Evaluation Rubric for presenters:
 * **Knowledge (10)** || **Depth of understanding of the evolution of the technology** ||
 * **Thinking (10)** || **Correctly identifies the impact and significance of the innovation** ||
 * **Communication (20)** || **Poster is creative, visually appealing and organized. (10)**
 * Minimal reading from prepared text. (5)**
 * Confident and enthusiastic about topic. (5)** ||

<span style="color: #000000; font-family: Verdana,Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Evaluation Rubric for co-anchors:

Three full class periods will be provided for completion of the project. Have fun and good luck.
 * **Knowledge (10)** || **Depth of understanding of the individual topics.** ||
 * **Thinking (10)** || **Evidence of planning and organizing; preparation of flowchart.** ||
 * **Communication(20)** || **Creation of a creative script. (10)**
 * A smooth flowing TV program.(5)**
 * Confident and enthusiastic. (5)** ||

= = = = = = = Movie: AntiTrust =

Time for a break. The movie we'll be watching features information technology in a unique way. The hero Milo is a young hot shot computer programmer who has caught the eye of Gary Winston, head of Nerv, a giant software company. This movie is a parody on real life people and institutions. Answer these questions while you watch: 2. What does the acronym N-U-R-V stand for? 3. Gary Winston represents what software billionaire we all know? 4. What is open source software and provide an example. 5. Who, according to Milo and his buddies, owns "human knowledge?" 6. How does Gary Winston justify charging a price for software? 7. What is the name of the global network Nurv is trying to develop? 8. What is the problem Milo is hired by Nurv to solve? 9. Who is ND47? 10. When does the movie [|jump the shark], meaning become unbelievable? 11. What three points from the film do you want the viewer to remember? 12. What ethical issues become apparent as you watch the film? Enjoy! ||
 * || [[image:btt1o1/antitrust.jpg caption="antitrust.jpg"]] ||
 * antitrust.jpg ||  || 1. What company is Nurv supposed to be in real life?