Do you spend time on the computer? Do you your friends or just surf the Net? Do you enjoy problem solving?

Information Technology The technology used to design, develop, set up, operate, and support computer systems.

Terms associated with Information Technology  Computer hardware – the actual machinery-wires transistors, and circuits.  Computer software – the instructions and data.  Network – two or more computer systems linked together.  Mainframe computer – a powerful multi-user computer capable of supporting many hundreds of users simultaneously.

Terms continued:  Microcomputer – a multi-user computer capable of supporting 10 to hundreds of users simultaneously.  Supercomputer – an extremely fast computer that can perform hundreds or millions of instructions per second.  Upgrade – a new version of software or hardware; or products designed to replace an older version.  Multimedia – the use of computers to present text, graphics, video, animation, and sound in an integrated way.  Technician – a person skilled in the workings of a computer and its systems.

Job Families  Interactive Media  Programming Software Engineer  Information Support Services  Network Systems

Careers in Information Technology  Computer Hardware Engineer  Computer Operator  Computer Programmer  Computer Scientist  Help Desk Technician  Network Administrator  Systems Analyst

Careers in Information Technology (continued)  Technical Writer  Webmate

Now that you have been informed of the career choices within this cluster, complete the activity sheet found on your table to see if you can match the career choice with its description.

Check Your Answers  Computer hardware engineer – designs and develops computer hardware.  Computer operator – oversees the operation of large mainframe computers or groups of microcomputers.  Computer programmer – writes, texts, and maintains computer software.  Computer scientist – conducts research in information technology.  Help desk technician – assists computer users who encounter problems.  Network administrator – installs, maintains, repairs, and upgrades computer network hardware and software.  Systems analyst – studies how institutions process information and designs better ways of processing it.  Technical writer – creates user guides and online help guides to tell people how to use software, hardware, and other high-technology products.  Webmate – designs and maintains sites on the world wide web.

Information Technology – A Career To Consider  What would it be like to work at a career in this cluster?

Questions? Comments!