1. COMPUTERS in the CLASSROOM

2. How Computers Work
Hardware and software make the computing cycle possible.
Hardware: all physical components of a computer
Software: all the programs telling the computer how to perform its tasks

3. How Computers Work The computing cycle consists of
Input
Processing
Storage
Output
Each stage of the cycle has specific hardware devices associated with it

4. How Computers Work The Computing Cycle
Begins with input - data or programs entered into the machine by the user
Input goes to the Central Processing Unit (CPU) for processing
CPU chip directs and executes necessary tasks
The CPU may use Random Access Memory (RAM) to store data during processing

5. How Computers Work The Computing Cycle
Data may be placed more permanently (stored) on a disk CD-R, or other storage device
When processing is complete, the CPU sends the processed data (information) to an output device
This cycle is continuous as long as the machine is on

6. The COMPUTING CYCLE

7. Understanding HARDWARE

8. Understanding HARDWARE
Input Devices
Devices that send data or programs into the machine
Common devices include keyboard and mouse
Others include track balls, joy sticks, touch pads, microphones, etc.

9. Understanding HARDWARE
Output Devices
Move processed data from computer to user
Monitors
display data as soft copy output
Monitor displays vary in their clarity (resolution)
LCD monitors offer flat, thin hardware

10. Understanding HARDWARE
Output Devices
Printers
Display data in hard copy output
Printer vary in resolution (clarity of output) and speed
The most common types are laser and ink jet

11. Understanding HARDWARE
Printers
Laser printers use heat to affix toner to paper
Ink-jet printers squirt small bubbles of ink on paper
Most Ink-jet printers print in color and/or black

12. Understanding HARDWARE
The CPU (Central Processing Unit)
Controls all machine processes
CPU performance measured in terms of information processing speed
The higher the speed, the faster the CPU, making the computer more responsive to the user
Speed measured in Megahertz (MHz) and Gigahertz (GHz)

13. Understanding HARDWARE
Storage
CPU can store data temporarily in RAM or more permanently on storage devices
Storage devices include floppy disks, hard disks, optical discs, and USB drives.
SAVE command moves data from RAM to storage device

14. Understanding HARDWARE
When you SAVE,
data moves from
RAM to Storage

15. Understanding HARDWARE
Random Access Memory (RAM)
Temporary storage for programs and user input
Measured in Megabytes (Mb) or Gigabytes (Gb)
The greater the amount of RAM, the faster the computer can store and access data without crashing

16. Understanding HARDWARE
Data
Storage
Sizes

17. Understanding HARDWARE
Read Only Memory (ROM)
Programmed chip on the motherboard
Includes the computer’s Basic Input Output System (BIOS) that tells the machine how to function
BIOS is stored in ROM when the machine is built but can be upgraded

18. Understanding HARDWARE
POST
After BIOS program is read, Power-On Self-Test (POST ) starts
POST checks functionality of computer’s hardware
If any problems exist, it writes an error message on screen to inform user

19. Understanding Software
The Operating System
After a successful POST, the Operating System (OS) loads
The OS operates hardware, manages operations, and provides the user interface
Windows and Mac OS are the operating systems for PCs and Macs

20. Understanding Software
Graphical User Interface (GUI)
Windows and Mac OS use GUIs
A GUI uses icons (small graphics) to represent objects, programs, and data
In a GUI OS, commands are issued by clicking on icons

21. Understanding Software
In a GUI O/S,
to issue a
command you
move the mouse which
moves the pointer
to click on icons.

22. Understanding Software
Types of Programs
OS programs prepare the machine to run other programs
Application programs apply the machine to a specific task
Utility programs help maintain the machine and its operations

23. Understanding Software
Application Software
Academic applications are programs that help you teach and your students learn
Administrative applications are programs that help teachers perform administrative tasks
Application programs are sometimes bundled/sold with related software in an application suite

24. Understanding Software
Integrated software packages are “mini” versions of applications sold as a single software package
Software is written to run on specific machines so check machine specifications before buying software

25. TEACHERS and COMPUTERS
Why know so much about computers?
Teachers need to know enough to
Use technology appropriately
Handle minor computer problems
Help students use computers
Recognize when technical support is needed
Use both hardware and software effectively in their classroom