ICT Essentials for Teachers (Module 1)

The computer as we know it today had its beginning with a 19th century English mathematics professor named Charles Babbage. He designed the Analytical Engine and it was this design that the basic framework of the computers of today are based on.

In this regard, a computer can be defined as an advanced electronic device that takes raw data as input from the user and processes it under the control of a set of instructions (called program), gives the result (output), and saves it for the future use. For example, the computer in a stopwatch accepts a command to start (a person pressing the button), counts the passing of time, and shows the time on a screen to the person holding the stopwatch. A Personal Computer accepts input from a person via the keyboard, runs programs like word processors or games, and displays the results on the screen.