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Computers have many advantages over humans, such as faster calculations, tirelessness, and the ability to store and retrieve large amounts of information. However, computers cannot write books, provide comfort, or think for themselves. This module explores the role of computers in various areas such as business administration, healthcare, education, and government.
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European Computer Driving Licence Module 1 – Concepts of IT Chapter 1.5 – The Use of IT in Everyday Life P42 Pass ECDL4
Computers can calculate millions of times faster than humans never get tired can do jobs which are dangerous for humans store large amounts of information in one place find information quickly never lose or misplace information Computers or People? Pass ECDL4
Computers cannot write a book comfort a person in distress think for themselves think of new ideas People versus Computers Pass ECDL4
Business Administration Payroll Keeping customer records Processing sales orders Keeping accounts Stock management Airline Booking Systems Bookings instantly recorded to avoid double booking Availability of flights instantly accessible Online Banking Access your account 24/7 No need to travel to a branch Reduction in overheads for the bank Insurance Claims Processing Maintain databases to prevent duplicate claims/fraud Send automatic renewal notices to customers Computers in business Pass ECDL4
Census Recording of information including statistics on age, ethnic origin etc Ensures schools, hospitals and other facilities are made available Electronic Voting Voting register is updated Voting by computer either at home or at polling station is likely to take off Vehicle Registration DVLC has records of all registered vehicles Revenue Collection Inland Revenue keeps records of every taxpayer Taxpayers can fill in a tax return online Tax credits can also be applied for online Computers in Government Pass ECDL4
Patient Record systems Doctors’ surgeries are computerised Appointment systems Print out prescriptions Ambulance Control Systems Call-taking, accepting and verifying incidents Sending out nearest ambulance Communicating incidents to chosen ambulance Positioning suitably equipped ambulances to where they are likely to be needed Diagnostic tools and instruments Computerised tools to scan and analyse samples Monitor vital signs such as heart rate and temperature Pacemakers and artificial limbs have changed the lives of many people Specialist surgical equipment Assist surgeons with carrying out delicate surgery Provide 3D vision to eliminate hand-tremor Computers in Healthcare Pass ECDL4
Student Registration Keep student records Enable computerised timetabling Swipe-cards to monitor student attendance Computer-Based Training Wide range of software packages to aid learning Can teach a wide range of subjects Online learning Student resources made available over the Internet Assignments can be submitted via email Distance Learning Computers in Education Pass ECDL4
Advantages No travelling time Avoid traffic jams Work in the comfort of your own home Flexible schedules Reduced office space requirements Easier childcare Disadvantages Lack of personal contact with colleagues Lack of teamwork in shared projects Home distractions Lesser employee benefits (medical plans, bonuses etc) Teleworking Many people choose to work at home rather than commuting to the office. Pass ECDL4
Lighting – rooms should be well lit and windows should have blinds to avoid sunlight Ventilation – windows should open to allow free circulation of fresh air Monitors – should be positioned away from sunlight and windows Furniture – use an adjustable chair with good back support set to the correct height for comfortable use of keyboard and mouse Accessories – use copyholders and footrests where necessary Ergonomics Ergonomics refers to design and functionality which includes the following factors Pass ECDL4
Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) Collective name for a range of disorders affecting neck, limbs and back Results in numbness and tingling in limbs Eyestrain Caused by long periods in front of a computer screen Caused also by poor lighting Back problems Caused by poor seating and posture Caused by prolonged use of a computer Safety Precautions Cables should be safely secured Keep work surfaces tidy Take frequent short breaks Wear your glasses! Health Issues Pass ECDL4
Recycle printer cartridges Recycle printer paper Use Print Preview facility to check your work before printing Do you REALLY need a printout? Print for a purpose! Use power schemes to reduce amount of electricity used CD-ROMs, electronic documents all reduce the need for printed materials The Environment Pass ECDL4