(a) State four classes of computer based on size. (b) Define the term Information and Communication Technology (ICT). (c) Highlight three wys (ICT) has impa...

Answer Details

This question tests basic classification of computers, the meaning of ICT, and its social impact.

(a) Four classes of computer based on size. In order of decreasing size and processing power:

• Supercomputer: the largest and fastest, used for weather forecasting and scientific research.
• Mainframe computer: large, serving many users at once in banks and government offices.
• Minicomputer (midrange): medium-sized, used by small organisations.
• Microcomputer: the smallest, such as desktops, laptops, tablets and smartphones.

(b) Information and Communication Technology (ICT). ICT is the use of computers, telecommunication systems and other electronic devices to capture, process, store, retrieve and transmit information. It combines computing (Information Technology) with communication technologies such as the Internet, telephony and networking.

(c) Three ways ICT has impacted on society.

• Communication: people now communicate instantly across the world through email, social media and video calls.
• Education: ICT enables e-learning, online research and access to vast digital libraries.
• Commerce and employment: e-commerce and e-banking allow buying, selling and money transfer online, while creating new ICT jobs (though also displacing some manual jobs).

Examination reminder: when asked to classify by size, do not mix in classification by type (digital, analog, hybrid) or by purpose - the examiner wants supercomputer, mainframe, mini and micro.