The document provides an overview of computers, including their components and functions. It discusses how computers input, process, output and store data. It describes the basic internal and external hardware components, as well as system and application software. The document also outlines different types of computers from supercomputers to laptops. It discusses the importance of computers in modern life and for education in South Africa.

1. Emmanuel Gwintsa 219042287
Teaching Studies 3B
Introduction
to computers

2. Computer
A computer is an electronic device that inputs then
processes data and information. It has the ability to
store, retrieve and output that data and information.
In simple terms, a computer is an electronic device
that inputs, processes, outputs and stores data and
information.

3. Computer components
Before we take a look at the different types of computers, it is important to note that all computers have in common:
hardware and software.
Computer Hardware is any physical and tangible part of a computer that the computer needs to function. These
include the monitor, keyboard, mouse etc. It also includes all of the computer's internal tangible parts such as
motherboard and processor as indicated in the picture below. Computer Hardware can be separated into two main
categories, Internal and external.

4. Computer components
Internal components are devices that are either built-in to the motherboard of the computer, added on
an expansion card or a device attached to the motherboard by way of ribbon cables such as RAM,
processor, graphics card etc. External devices are added to the computer system by plugging them
into one of the ports on the back of the computer such as keyboard, mouse, monitor and others.

5. Computer components
Computer Software is any set of instructions that tells the hardware what to do
and how to do it. Examples of software include web browsers, games, and word
processors. Software includes the full set of programs, procedures, and routines
associated with the operation of a computer system.

6. Computer components
System software and Application Software are the two main categories of computer software that are
often used.
Systems software is a type of software that manages the resources of a computer system while also
making application creation easier. This includes include operating systems like iOS, Windows, Android
etc.
Application software are programs that direct the performance of a particular use, or application, of
computers to meet the information processing needs of end users. Examples are Google chrome,
Adobe photoshop, MS Office etc.

7. How computers work?
• A computer receives data through an input device
• Processes it
• Produces the output through an output device
• Then lastly stores it on a storage device.

8. Important parts of a computer
• Motherboard - the motherboard dictates the physical form factor and
size of your PC build, but it also determines what other pieces of
hardware the computer can use.
• Central Processing Unit – The CPU is the engine of your computer
and sets the performance expectations for the entire build.
• RAM - it gives your system more available space to temporarily store
data that’s being used
• Hard disk (Storage) –Files, software and data are saved long-term on
your storage drive. This data is held on either a hard disk drive (HDD)
or solid state drive (SSD).
• MONITOR/SCREEN- Displays your information

9. Types of computers
Computers
• Super computers – These types of computers are the fastest and also very expensive. A typical supercomputer can solve up
to ten trillion individual calculations per second.
• Mainframes - A mainframe is a data processing center's core data repository, or hub, that is connected to users via less
capable devices such as workstations or terminals.
• Laptops - A small, portable computer and handy computer that can be easily carried anywhere.
• Minicomputer and microcomputer - Minicomputers are used for support of optimization composed of the double processing
unit for any manipulation and evaluation as well. Microcomputers are the most cost and user friendly as compared to
minicomputers whereas minicomputers are highly complex and costly.

10. —TED NELSON
“The good news about
computers is that they do what
you tell them to do. The bad
news is that they do what you
tell them to do.”

11. Importance of Computers in Human Lives
Computers are an essential part of our everyday lives. Then ensure that we can do the following:
● Multitask
● Fast communication
● Reduces work load
● Fast calculations
● Aid education

12. In South Africa, the full implementation of education centered around
computer and technology is necessary since South Africa is among
the most poor performing countries academically.
Modern technology could aid a lot of schools in the country including ones
in rural areas. Learners could be able to access information even in areas
without electricity. For instance, developing android applications that contain
the contain all learning guides, textbook, question papers and other educational
resources.
Computer’s in South African schools

13. REFERENCE LIST
PHOTOS
● [Picture of hand clicking keyboard] .(n.d) https://wallpapercave.com/w/wp2700130
● Fisher, T ( 2021) Lifewire / Chloe Giroux https://www.lifewire.com/computer-hardware-2625895
SLIDES
● Guevarra (2009) Lesson 3 Basic Parts Of The Computer from Slideshare at https://bit.ly/2Y1jjAL (Accessed 24 August 2021)
● Koushley, P (2019) Computer Basics from Slideshare at https://bit.ly/3yl5hpU (Accessed 24 August 2021)
● Libcorpio (2020) Computer Hardware And Software from Slideshare at https://bit.ly/3jgWC3y (Accessed 24 August 2021)
● Mkhisalg (2011) Types and components of computer system https://bit.ly/3gyHwES (Accessed 24 August 2021)
● Nalage, B. (2018) Computer Basics. Available from Slideshare at https://bit.ly/3guzPiV (Accessed 24 August 2021)
● Tan, A. (2012) Introduction to Basic Computer Concepts Presentation https://bit.ly/3sWvydd (Accessed 24 August 2021)
Google drive link with files: CLICK ME

14. THANKS!
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https://about.me/emmanuelgwintsa