Chapter 3 — Information And Communication Technology Skills

What is ICT? Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is the set of tools, systems and processes used to create, store, process, transmit and present information. ICT combines computing (hardware and software) with telecommunications (networks, internet and broadcasting) to enable communication and information access.

Core components of ICT

• Hardware: physical devices — computers, smartphones, routers, servers, sensors, printers.
• Software: operating systems, applications, web browsers, databases.
• Networks: LAN, WAN, the Internet, mobile networks connecting devices.
• Data: digital information (text, audio, image, video) to be processed or communicated.
• People & Procedures: users, administrators, policies and workflows that govern ICT use.

Main functions and services

• Communication: email, messaging, VoIP, video conferencing.
• Information access: web search, digital libraries, online news.
• Commerce and transactions: online banking, e-commerce, digital payments.
• Education & training: e-learning platforms, virtual classrooms.
• Entertainment & media: streaming audio/video, social media.

Benefits: faster communication, easy access to information, automation of tasks, improved collaboration, remote working and learning, cost savings through digital processes.

Challenges & concerns: digital divide (unequal access), cybersecurity risks (malware, phishing), privacy issues, misinformation, dependency on infrastructure, need for digital literacy.

Security and ethics (brief): use strong passwords, update software, back up data, apply encryption where required, respect copyright, follow privacy laws and ethical guidelines when sharing information.

How ICT works in simple terms: Input & capture (keyboard, sensors) → Processing (CPU, software) → Storage (hard disk, cloud) → Transmission (networks) → Output & presentation (monitor, printer, speakers).

Role in daily life: ICT underpins online banking, telemedicine, smart classrooms, navigation (GPS), online shopping, social interaction and many government services (e‑governance).

What is Computer Hardware? Computer hardware comprises the physical components of a computer system you can touch — the central processing unit (CPU), memory, storage devices, motherboard, power supply, input and output devices, and expansion cards. Together with software, hardware enables computation, storage and communication.

Major internal components and their roles

• CPU (Processor): Executes instructions. Key attributes: clock speed (Hz), cores, and cache.
• Motherboard: Main circuit board that connects CPU, memory, storage, expansion slots and I/O ports.
• RAM (Random Access Memory): Volatile memory used for running programs and active data. Faster but temporary.
• ROM / BIOS / Firmware: Non-volatile memory containing boot firmware and basic hardware control.
• Storage: Long-term data storage. Types: HDD (mechanical), SSD (flash), NVMe (PCIe-based SSD).
• GPU (Graphics Processing Unit): Renders images and video; integrated or discrete.
• Power Supply Unit (PSU): Converts AC mains to regulated DC voltages for components.

Peripherals (Input / Output / Input-Output)

• Input devices: Keyboard, mouse, scanner, microphone, webcam, barcode reader.
• Output devices: Monitor, printer, speakers, projectors.
• IO devices: External storage (USB drives), touchscreens, multifunction printers (scan/print).

Interfaces and Connectors — how peripherals communicate with the computer: USB (2.0/3.x/Type‑C), HDMI/DisplayPort (video), VGA (legacy), Ethernet (network), audio jacks, SATA (internal drives), PCIe (expansion cards), NVMe (high-speed storage on PCIe).

Classification: Internal (installed inside case: GPU, sound card, SSD), External (connected outside: keyboard, monitor), and Networked (printers/servers on LAN).

Performance factors: CPU frequency, number of cores, RAM size and speed, storage type (HDD vs SSD vs NVMe), bus and interface bandwidth (USB, SATA, PCIe). Bottlenecks occur when a component is much slower than others (e.g., slow HDD with fast CPU).

Installation and basic troubleshooting

• Ensure power off and grounded before opening case. Check connections: power cables, SATA/PCIe cables, RAM seating, CPU cooler seating.
• POST/BIOS checks: Beep codes, motherboard LEDs, display output to detect faulty components.
• Peripheral issues: Try different ports/cables, check drivers, test on another system.

Maintenance and safety

• Keep dust-free, use antistatic precautions when handling components.
• Use surge protectors or UPS for power protection.
• Regularly update firmware/drivers and back up important data.

Practical note for schools and small businesses: Choose components based on use—word processing and browsing need modest CPU/RAM; video editing/gaming require powerful CPU/GPU and fast NVMe storage; point-of-sale and kiosks prioritize reliability and peripherals like barcode scanners and receipt printers.

What is Software? Software is a set of instructions, programs and data that tell computer hardware what to do. It is intangible and controls the behaviour and operations of a computer system.

Two broad categories

• System software — software that manages and controls computer hardware and provides a platform for running application software.
• Application software — programs designed to perform specific user-oriented tasks (e.g., word processing, web browsing, accounting).

System software: main components and functions

• Operating System (OS): kernel and services that manage processes, memory, file systems, devices and user interfaces. Core OS functions include process management, memory management, file management, device management, security and user interface (CLI/GUI).
• Device drivers: small programs that translate OS requests into device-specific commands (printer, graphics card, network adapter drivers).
• Utility programs: maintenance tools that support system operation (antivirus, disk cleanup, backup, defragmenter, system monitor).
• Firmware: low-level software programmed into hardware (BIOS/UEFI, embedded controllers, router firmware) that initializes hardware and provides basic services.

How they interact

User → Application software → System software (OS & drivers) → Hardware. Applications request services from the OS via system calls; the OS schedules CPU, assigns memory, accesses disk and talks to devices using drivers.

Key characteristics

• System software: runs continuously or when system boots, manages resources, must be stable, often privileged access to hardware.
• Application software: built for end-user tasks, installed/removed more frequently, interacts with users and relies on system software.

Installation, updates and licensing

System software (especially OS and firmware) receives periodic updates for security and features. Software may be licensed as proprietary (paid, closed source), free, or open-source (code available). Proper licensing and regular updates are essential for security and performance.

Practical importance

Understanding system software helps troubleshoot performance (e.g., why programs slow down), install correct drivers, choose the right utilities, and ensure secure and reliable computing in real-life contexts like schools, offices and embedded devices.

File and Folder Management refers to organizing, storing, locating and maintaining digital files and folders on a computer, removable drives or cloud storage. Good management keeps data safe, easy to find and reduces wasted storage.

Basic concepts

• File: A unit of stored information (document, image, audio, video, program). Files have names and extensions (e.g., report.docx, photo.jpg) that indicate type.
• Folder (Directory): A container used to group files and other folders, forming a hierarchical tree (root > subfolders).
• Path: The address of a file or folder in the hierarchy (e.g., C:\Users\Priya\Documents\project.docx or /home/priya/documents/project.docx).
• Attributes: Properties such as size, type, date created/modified/accessed, read-only or hidden.

Common operations

• Create/New folder or file
• Open / Edit
• Rename
• Copy / Move (cut & paste)
• Delete (goes to Recycle Bin/Trash or permanent removal)
• Search / Sort / Filter
• Compress (zip) / Extract
• Backup and Restore

Best practices

• Use clear, consistent naming (e.g., YYYY-MM-DD_subject_version).
• Organize by topic, project or date; limit folder depth for ease of access.
• Keep one master copy and use version numbers instead of duplicates.
• Regularly back up important files (cloud, external HDD).
• Use compression for sharing large files; use appropriate file formats (lossless vs lossy).
• Check permissions before sharing; empty Recycle Bin to free space.

Platform notes

• Windows shows drive letters (C:, D:) and uses backslashes in paths; common GUI operations via File Explorer.
• Linux/Unix uses a single-rooted filesystem with forward slashes (/home/user) and many operations can be done via commands (mkdir, cp, mv, rm).
• Cloud storage (Google Drive, OneDrive) provides syncing, version history and remote backup.

What is Word Processing? Word processing is the creation, editing, formatting, saving and printing of text documents using software such as Microsoft Word, LibreOffice Writer or Google Docs. It helps produce letters, reports, essays, resumes, certificates, newsletters and other professional documents quickly and consistently.

Key Components

• Document structure: title, headings, paragraphs, lists, tables, header/footer, page numbers.
• Formatting: fonts, font size, style (bold/italic/underline), alignment, line spacing, indentation, margins and page orientation.
• Styles & Templates: predefined formatting for headings, normal text and special blocks; templates save time and ensure uniformity.
• Editing tools: cut/copy/paste, find & replace, undo/redo, spell check and grammar check.
• Advanced tools: tables, images, text wrapping, columns, mail merge, footnotes/endnotes, references and citations, track changes and comments for collaboration.
• Saves & Exports: save in DOC/DOCX/ODT/PDF formats; print settings and page setup for physical copies.

Good Practices

• Use styles instead of manual formatting for consistent headings and easy navigation.
• Keep templates for recurring document types (letters, reports, certificates).
• Use headers/footers for document title, date and page numbers.
• Use tables for structured data and lists for ordered/unordered items.
• Use spell check and proofread manually; track changes when collaborating.

Accessibility & Compatibility — choose readable fonts (e.g., Arial, Times New Roman), sufficient contrast and use alt text for images. Save copies in common formats (PDF for sharing, DOCX for editing) to ensure compatibility.

Practical Workflow

1. Create a new document from a template or blank file.
2. Set page layout (paper size, margins, orientation) and styles.
3. Write content in logical sections using headings.
4. Insert tables/figures and apply captions if needed.
5. Proofread, use review tools (track changes, comments), and finalize formatting.
6. Save in required format and print/export as PDF.

A spreadsheet is an electronic sheet made of rows and columns used to store, organise, calculate and analyse data. Each box is a cell identified by a cell address (column letter + row number, e.g., A1). Spreadsheets (like Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets) let you enter different data types (text, numbers, dates), perform calculations with formulas (begin with =), use built-in functions, format cells, sort and filter data, and visualise results with charts.

Key concepts:

• Cells, rows, columns and ranges (e.g., A1, B2:C10).
• Formulas and functions: formulas begin with =. Functions are predefined operations like SUM(), AVERAGE(), IF().
• Relative vs absolute references: A1 (relative), $A$1 (absolute). Use absolute references when copying formulas that must refer to a fixed cell (e.g., tax rate).
• Common data operations: sorting, filtering, conditional formatting and data validation to ensure correct entries.
• Charts and graphs: convert tables into visual forms (bar, column, pie, line, scatter) to interpret data quickly.
• Autofill and fill-handle: quickly copy formulas or extend series (dates, numbers).

Practical workflow:

• Plan the table structure (columns as fields, rows as records).
• Enter raw data consistently (same units, date format).
• Use formulas with ranges rather than writing repeated arithmetic.
• Format numbers and alignment for readability (currency, percent, decimals).
• Create charts to summarise findings and use filters/sorting to explore the data.

Tips: double-check formulas, use named ranges for clarity, protect cells with important formulas, and keep a backup copy of important spreadsheets.

What are Presentation Skills? Presentation skills are the abilities used to plan, design and deliver information clearly and engagingly to an audience. They combine content organisation, visual design, vocal delivery and body language so that the audience understands and remembers the message.

Why they matter: Good presentation skills help you explain ideas, persuade others, teach, report results and perform well in school projects, interviews, debates and digital meetings.

Steps to prepare an effective presentation

• Analyse the audience – age, prior knowledge, expectations and time available. Tailor language, examples and depth accordingly.
• Define the objective – what should the audience learn, feel or do after your talk? Keep one clear central message.
• Organise content – use a clear structure: Introduction → Body → Conclusion. Use logical sequence (chronology, cause–effect, problem–solution or compare–contrast).
• Design slides or visuals – keep slides simple: one idea per slide, short text, meaningful images, consistent fonts and colours. Follow the 5×5 rule (max 5 bullet points, ~5 words each) as a guideline.
• Plan timing – allocate time (rule of thirds: 10% introduction, 80% main content, 10% conclusion) and rehearse with a timer.

Structure details

• Introduction – open with a hook (question, fact, short story), state the purpose and outline the main points.
• Body – present 3–5 key points, each with explanation, example/evidence and a transition to the next point (use PEEL: Point, Evidence, Explanation, Link).
• Conclusion – summarise main points, restate the takeaway, and include a closing remark or call to action.

Delivery techniques

• Voice – speak clearly, vary pitch and pace, pause for emphasis, and control volume to suit the room or microphone.
• Body language – maintain open posture, make eye contact, use natural hand gestures and move purposefully.
• Pacing – avoid rushing; use pauses to let ideas sink in. Match speech rate to audience comprehension.
• Handling questions – listen fully, repeat or rephrase the question if needed, answer concisely; if you don’t know, admit it and offer to follow up.

Design and visual aids

• Use contrast (dark text on light background or vice versa), readable font sizes (title ~36–44 pt, body ~24–32 pt for screen), and consistent templates.
• Prefer meaningful visuals (charts, diagrams, photos) over decorative images. Label axes and keep charts simple.
• Limit animation and transitions; use them only to support clarity.

Practice and technical checks

• Rehearse aloud, time yourself, and practise with your slides and any equipment (projector, microphone, webcam).
• Prepare backups: a PDF copy of slides, a USB drive and access to cloud storage. For remote presentations check internet, camera framing and lighting.

Accessibility and engagement

• Ensure text is readable (large fonts, high contrast), speak clearly for listeners with hearing needs, and describe important visuals for visually impaired audience members.
• Use questions, short activities or polls to keep the audience involved.

Common mistakes to avoid: reading slides word-for-word, overloading slides with text, speaking too fast, poor time management, ignoring audience reactions, and inadequate rehearsal.

What is a database? A database is an organized collection of related information (data) stored so it can be easily accessed, managed and updated. A DBMS (Database Management System) is software that lets you create, read, update and delete data in a database (examples: MySQL, SQLite, MS Access).

Basic terms:

• Table: Collection of records (rows) and fields/columns (attributes).
• Record (row): One item or entity in a table (e.g., one student).
• Field/Attribute (column): One type of information stored about each record (e.g., name, roll no.).
• Primary Key: A column (or set) that uniquely identifies each record (e.g., student_id).
• Foreign Key: A column that links a record to a primary key in another table (enforces relationships).
• Schema: Structure/blueprint of the database (tables, fields, types, relationships).

Operations (CRUD): Create (INSERT), Read (SELECT), Update (UPDATE), Delete (DELETE). These are the basic operations on data.

Data integrity & consistency: Rules and constraints (NOT NULL, UNIQUE, PRIMARY KEY, FOREIGN KEY) ensure correctness. ACID properties of transactions describe reliable processing: Atomicity, Consistency, Isolation, Durability.

Relationships between tables: One-to-One, One-to-Many, Many-to-Many. Use foreign keys to implement relationships. Many-to-many uses a junction table.

Normalization: Process of organizing tables to reduce redundancy and improve integrity. Typical normal forms taught at basic level:

• 1NF (First Normal Form): Each field contains atomic (single) values; no repeating groups.
• 2NF (Second Normal Form): In 1NF and every non-key attribute is fully functionally dependent on the primary key (applies when composite keys exist).
• 3NF (Third Normal Form): In 2NF and no transitive dependency (non-key attributes depend only on primary key).

Indexing: Indexes are data structures that speed up search queries on large tables (like an index in a book). They trade off extra storage and slower writes for faster reads.

Backups and security: Regular backups protect against data loss. Access control (users/roles/permissions) and encryption protect data privacy.

How a simple database is designed (steps):

1. Identify entities (e.g., Students, Courses, Teachers).
2. List attributes for each entity (e.g., student_name, roll_no, DOB).
3. Choose primary keys for each table.
4. Identify relationships and add foreign keys.
5. Normalize tables up to 3NF where needed.
6. Create indexes on columns used in WHERE/JOIN clauses for performance.

Example SQL snippets: Use these as templates when working with a relational DBMS:

• CREATE TABLE Students (student_id INT PRIMARY KEY, name TEXT, class INT, dob DATE);
• INSERT INTO Students VALUES (101, 'Rita', 10, '2010-04-12');
• SELECT name, class FROM Students WHERE class = 10;
• UPDATE Students SET name = 'Rita K' WHERE student_id = 101;
• DELETE FROM Students WHERE student_id = 999;

Practical tips for students: Use meaningful table and column names, enforce primary keys, avoid duplicate data, make periodic backups, and test queries on a small dataset first.

When to use a database? Use a database when you must store structured information that needs searching, sorting, reporting, enforcing rules and supporting multiple users (e.g., school records, inventory systems, bank accounts).

Overview: A computer network is a collection of computers and devices linked to share resources and information. The Internet is a global network of networks that uses standard protocols to exchange data.

Why networks matter: They enable communication (email, chat), resource sharing (printers, files), remote services (cloud, web), and multimedia (video calls, streaming).

Types of networks:

• LAN (Local Area Network): small area such as a home, school or office.
• WAN (Wide Area Network): covers large geographic areas; often built from multiple LANs.
• PAN (Personal Area Network): very short range around a person (Bluetooth).
• MAN (Metropolitan Area Network): spans a city or campus.

Topologies: physical or logical layout of nodes. Common topologies: star, bus, ring and mesh. Choice affects performance, reliability and cost.

Network devices:

• NIC (Network Interface Card): connects a device to a network.
• Hub: broadcasts incoming data to all ports (rare now).
• Switch: forwards data only to the destination port using MAC addresses.
• Router: connects different networks and routes packets (often the device provided by your ISP).
• Modem: converts digital signals to/from analog for transmission over phone or cable lines.
• Firewall: blocks or allows traffic based on security rules.

Addresses and identifiers:

• IP address: unique logical address for a device on IP networks. IPv4 uses 32 bits (example 192.168.1.10). IPv6 uses 128 bits (hexadecimal).
• MAC address: hardware address on the network interface, 48-bit, shown in hex (example 00:1A:2B:3C:4D:5E).
• Domain name: human-readable name (example example.com) resolved to an IP by DNS (Domain Name System).

Protocols: Rules that govern communication. Important ones:

• TCP/IP: core protocol suite of the Internet. TCP provides reliable delivery; IP handles addressing and routing.
• HTTP/HTTPS: used for web traffic. HTTPS uses TLS/SSL encryption (secure).
• FTP: file transfer.
• SMTP, POP3, IMAP: email sending and retrieval.
• DNS: resolves domain names to IP addresses.

How data moves: The Internet uses packet switching. Large messages are split into packets. Packets travel independently and are reassembled at the destination. Each packet contains headers with source/destination addresses.

Performance terms:

• Bandwidth: maximum data rate of a link (bits per second, bps).
• Throughput: actual achieved data rate (bps).
• Latency (delay): time taken for a packet to travel from source to destination.
• Jitter: variation in packet delay (important for voice/video).

Security basics: Use strong passwords, keep systems updated, use HTTPS, enable firewalls and antivirus, be cautious with links/attachments. VPNs create encrypted tunnels for privacy.

Everyday Internet components: ISP (Internet Service Provider) supplies Internet access; browser accesses web pages; URL (Uniform Resource Locator) points to web resources; search engines help find information.

Common classroom/real-life uses: online research, cloud storage, email, e-learning platforms, video conferencing, IoT devices at home.

Overview
Email and online communication cover digital methods for exchanging information over the Internet — primarily email, instant messaging, forums, and video conferencing. These tools are used for personal, educational and professional communication and require understanding of structure, protocols, security and etiquette.

Email: Components and Workflow

• Parts of an email: To (recipient), Cc (carbon copy), Bcc (blind carbon copy), Subject, Body, Attachments, Signature.
• Sending/Receiving process: Compose → Mail client forwards message to SMTP server → SMTP delivers to recipient's mail server → Recipient fetches with POP3 or IMAP (IMAP keeps mail on server; POP3 downloads it).
• Common protocols: SMTP (sending), IMAP and POP3 (receiving), HTTPS for webmail access.

Online Communication Tools

• Instant Messaging / Chat: Real-time text, often with presence indicators (online/offline).
• Video Conferencing: Audio + video + screen sharing for remote meetings (e.g., Zoom, Google Meet).
• Forums and Discussion Boards: Asynchronous threaded discussions for classes or communities.
• Collaborative Platforms: Shared documents, comments, version history (e.g., Google Docs, Microsoft 365).

Security and Privacy

• Use strong passwords, enable two-factor authentication (2FA).
• Beware of phishing: check sender address, do not click suspicious links or open unexpected attachments.
• Use secure connections (HTTPS, TLS for email) and, when needed, end-to-end encryption.
• Keep software and antivirus updated.

Netiquette (Online Etiquette)

• Write clear, polite subject lines and concise bodies.
• Use proper salutations and signatures in formal emails.
• Reply promptly to important messages; use Reply All sparingly.
• Respect privacy: use Bcc for large recipient lists to hide addresses.

Practical Tips

• Organize with folders/labels and use filters to automate sorting.
• Compress large attachments or share cloud links to avoid mailbox limits.
• Proofread before sending; include contact details in signature for formal emails.

Example Formal Email Template

Subject: Request for Project Extension

Dear Ms. Sharma,

I hope you are well. I am writing to request a two-day extension for submitting my ICT project due to illness. I have completed most of the work and will submit by Friday, 10 October.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,
A. Kumar
Class 10B

Key Differences Between Tools

• Email: best for formal, asynchronous, long-form communication and records.
• Chat/IM: quick, informal, synchronous short messages.
• Video calls: verbal/nonverbal interaction for meetings and teaching.

Summary
Email and online communication tools are essential skills: know structure and protocols, follow security practices, apply netiquette, organize content, and choose the appropriate medium for the message.

What is Cyber Security and Safety?

Cyber security is the practice of protecting computers, networks, programs and data from unauthorized access, attack, damage or theft. Cyber safety focuses on safe and responsible use of the internet and digital devices by individuals to protect privacy, identity and wellbeing.

Core principles (CIA)

• Confidentiality – ensure information is accessible only to those authorized.
• Integrity – ensure information is accurate and untampered.
• Availability – ensure information and systems are available when needed.

Common threats

• Malware: viruses, worms, trojans, ransomware that damage or lock data.
• Phishing: fraudulent emails or messages tricking users into revealing credentials or clicking malicious links.
• Social engineering: manipulation to extract confidential info.
• Man-in-the-middle: interception of communication between two parties.
• DDoS: distributed denial-of-service attacks making services unavailable.
• Password attacks: guessing, brute-force, or credential stuffing.

Safe practices (how to stay secure)

• Use strong, unique passwords and a password manager.
• Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible.
• Keep operating systems, apps and antivirus software up to date.
• Be cautious with email links and attachments; verify senders.
• Use secure Wi‑Fi (WPA2/WPA3) and avoid public Wi‑Fi for sensitive tasks without a VPN.
• Back up important data regularly and test restores.
• Limit personal information shared on social media and check privacy settings.
• Install apps only from trusted stores and review app permissions.
• Educate family and peers about scams, especially children and elderly users.

What to do after an incident

• Isolate the affected device (disconnect from network).
• Change compromised passwords from a secure device.
• Run antivirus scans and restore data from backups if needed.
• Report serious incidents to school/organization IT and to appropriate authorities.

Role of encryption and authentication

Encryption converts readable data (plaintext) into unreadable form (ciphertext) so only authorized parties can read it. Authentication methods (passwords, biometrics, 2FA) confirm a user’s identity.

Importance for students and everyday life

Cyber security and safety help protect personal photos and schoolwork, prevent identity theft, keep online accounts secure, and ensure safe use of social media and online learning platforms.

Definition

Multimedia combines two or more content forms — text, images/graphics, audio, video and animation — into a single interactive application or presentation. Digital media is any media encoded in binary form (0s and 1s) so it can be created, stored, transmitted and processed by computers (examples: JPEG, MP3, MP4, PNG, PDF).

Components of Multimedia

• Text: Titles, captions, descriptions.
• Images/Graphics: Photographs, icons, illustrations (PNG, JPEG, SVG).
• Audio: Speech, music, sound effects (WAV, MP3).
• Video: Moving images with or without sound (MP4, AVI, MKV).
• Animation: Frame-by-frame or programmatic motion (GIF, CSS/JS animations).
• Interactivity: Buttons, quizzes, hyperlinks, navigation controls.

How digital media is represented

All digital media is stored as binary. Different formats and codecs determine how content is encoded and compressed. Important ideas:

• Resolution (images/video) — pixels across width × height.
• Color depth — bits per pixel (e.g., 24-bit color = 8 bits per R,G,B channel).
• Sampling rate (audio) — samples per second in Hz (e.g., 44.1 kHz).
• Bit depth (audio) — bits per sample (e.g., 16-bit).
• Frame rate (video) — frames per second (fps).

File size basics (concept)

Uncompressed file size grows with resolution, color depth, sampling rate, frame rate and duration. Compression (lossless or lossy) reduces file size at cost of processing time or quality loss.

Creation pipeline

1. Capture (camera, microphone, scanner)
2. Editing (cutting, color correction, adding text/audio)
3. Encoding/Compression (choose codec/format)
4. Distribution (web, streaming, storage)
5. Playback (player software, browsers, devices)

Common formats and uses

• Images: JPEG (photo, lossy), PNG (transparency, lossless), SVG (scalable vector)
• Audio: MP3 (lossy, small files), WAV (uncompressed), AAC (efficient lossy)
• Video: MP4/H.264 (widely used, efficient), WebM, AVI
• Animation: GIF (short animations), HTML5/CSS/JS for interactive animation

Advantages

• Engaging — combines senses (sight, hearing)
• Flexible — reusable, searchable, easy to distribute
• Interactive learning — simulations, quizzes, multimedia lessons

Limitations / Challenges

• Large file sizes and bandwidth demands
• Compatibility and codec issues
• Accessibility needs (captions, alt text) and copyright concerns

Best practices

• Choose appropriate formats (PNG for lossless images with transparency, JPEG for photos)
• Optimize for web (compress, resize, use responsive media)
• Include captions/transcripts for accessibility
• Use metadata and descriptive filenames for searchability

Simple example calculations (conceptual)

Image: an uncompressed 1920×1080 image at 24-bit color size = 1920×1080×24 bits = 49,766,400 bits ≈ 6.0 MB (divide by 8 to get bytes, then by 1024² for MB). Audio: 44.1 kHz × 16-bit × 2 channels for 60 seconds = 44,100×16×2×60 bits = 846,720,000 bits ≈ 100.8 MB uncompressed.

Educational / Real-life uses

Digital classrooms, e-books with embedded audio/video, advertisements, streaming services, podcasts, interactive museum kiosks, virtual tours and augmented reality learning tools.

What is Cloud Computing?

Cloud computing is the delivery of computing services—servers, storage, databases, networking, software, analytics and intelligence—over the Internet (“the cloud”) to offer faster innovation, flexible resources and economies of scale. Users access these services on demand without owning or managing the underlying physical infrastructure.

Key Characteristics

• On-demand self-service: Users can provision services as needed without human interaction with the service provider.
• Broad network access: Services are available over the network and accessed through standard mechanisms (web browsers, mobile apps).
• Resource pooling: Provider’s resources serve multiple users dynamically.
• Rapid elasticity: Resources scale up or down quickly according to demand.
• Measured service: Usage is monitored, controlled and reported (pay-as-you-go).

Service Models

• IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service): Rent virtual machines, storage, and networks (e.g., AWS EC2, Google Compute Engine).
• PaaS (Platform as a Service): Provide platforms for developing and deploying apps without managing OS (e.g., Google App Engine, Heroku).
• SaaS (Software as a Service): Ready-to-use applications accessed through a browser (e.g., Gmail, MS 365).

Deployment Models

• Public cloud: Services offered over the public internet by providers to multiple customers.
• Private cloud: Cloud infrastructure dedicated to a single organization.
• Hybrid cloud: Combination of public and private clouds, allowing data and application portability.

Benefits

• Cost savings (no large capital expenditure on hardware)
• Scalability and flexibility
• Improved collaboration and remote access
• Automatic updates, backups and disaster recovery options

Risks and Considerations

• Security and data privacy concerns (data stored off-site)
• Dependence on internet connectivity
• Possible vendor lock-in
• Variable costs if usage not monitored

Online Services (Common Examples)

Online services are cloud-hosted applications that users access via a web browser or app. They include:

• Email services (Gmail, Outlook.com)
• File storage and sharing (Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive)
• Office productivity suites (Google Workspace, Microsoft 365)
• Streaming services (Netflix, Spotify)
• Communication and meetings (Zoom, Microsoft Teams)
• Educational platforms (Google Classroom, Coursera)
• Business applications (Salesforce CRM)

How Schools and Students Use Cloud Services

Students and schools use cloud services for email, collaborative documents, online assignments, virtual classrooms, backup of student work, and hosting school websites. Benefits include easy collaboration, access from anywhere, and minimal IT maintenance for schools.

Best Practices

• Use strong passwords and multi-factor authentication (MFA).
• Understand provider’s data location and backup policies.
• Monitor usage and set budgets to avoid unexpected costs.
• Keep local copies of critical data where needed.

Summary

Cloud computing and online services transform how computing resources and applications are delivered and consumed. They enable flexible, cost-effective solutions for individuals, schools and businesses but require attention to security, privacy and cost management.

Overview

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in society refers to the use of digital tools (computers, internet, mobile devices, software) to access, process, store and share information. e-Governance is the application of ICT by government agencies to deliver information and public services to citizens (G2C), businesses (G2B), other government departments (G2G) and employees (G2E).

Key Components

• Infrastructure: networks, data centres, broadband, mobile networks.
• Applications & Services: portals, mobile apps, e-payments, databases.
• Human resources: skilled IT staff, digital literacy for users.
• Legal & Policy Framework: data protection, IT laws, standards.
• Content & Interoperability: open data, standardized formats, APIs.

Principles of e-Governance

• Transparency — public access to information and processes.
• Accountability — audit trails and traceability of decisions.
• Accessibility — services available to all (including differently-abled).
• Efficiency & Speed — faster service delivery and reduced paperwork.
• Participation — enabling citizen feedback and engagement.

Advantages

• Faster, cheaper delivery of public services (e.g., online forms, certificates).
• Reduced corruption through automation and audit logs.
• Improved access to information across remote areas.
• Better decision-making using digital data and analytics.

Social Impacts

ICT and e-Governance can bridge information gaps, improve education and health access, boost financial inclusion (digital payments) and support economic activities. However, they can also widen the digital divide if infrastructure and digital skills are unequal, and raise privacy and security concerns.

Common e-Governance Service Types

• G2C (Government to Citizen): e-citizen portals, online tax filing, social benefit disbursement.
• G2B (Government to Business): business registrations, e-procurement, licenses.
• G2G (Government to Government): inter-department data sharing, central registries.
• G2E (Government to Employee): payroll, training, HR systems.

Challenges

• Digital divide (connectivity and literacy gaps).
• Cybersecurity risks and data privacy concerns.
• Resistance to change and need for capacity building.
• Interoperability and legacy system integration.

Best Practices & Success Factors

• User-centric service design and mobile-first approaches.
• Open standards and APIs for interoperability.
• Strong legal frameworks for privacy and cybersecurity.
• Promotion of digital literacy and inclusive access (public kiosks, community centres).

Emerging technologies are new or rapidly improving digital, physical and biological tools and systems that change how people live, work and learn. For Class 10 ICT Skills, understanding these technologies helps students become aware of future workplaces and required skills.

Major technologies and short descriptions:

• Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML): Systems that learn from data to make predictions or decisions. Examples: virtual assistants, recommendation engines.
• Internet of Things (IoT): Network of connected devices (sensors, appliances) that collect and exchange data. Example: smart homes, wearable health trackers.
• 5G and Advanced Connectivity: Faster, lower-latency mobile networks enabling real-time services like remote surgery, high-quality AR/VR streaming.
• Cloud and Edge Computing: Cloud provides centralized scalable processing and storage; edge computing processes data near the source to reduce latency (important for autonomous vehicles, industrial control).
• Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR): Immersive technologies used in gaming, training simulations and virtual labs.
• Blockchain: Distributed ledger technology for secure, tamper-evident records; used in supply chains and digital identity.
• Robotics and Automation: Robots and software automation (RPA) that perform repetitive or precise tasks in manufacturing, agriculture and services.
• 3D Printing (Additive Manufacturing): Layer-by-layer fabrication for rapid prototyping, custom medical devices and small-scale manufacturing.
• Quantum Computing (emerging research area): Uses quantum phenomena to solve certain problems faster than classical computers; still largely experimental.

Key trends shaping how these technologies spread and affect society:

• Convergence: Multiple technologies combine (e.g., AI + IoT = smart predictive systems).
• Democratization: Tools and platforms make technology accessible to more people (low-code/no-code, cloud services).
• Edge-to-cloud continuum: Workloads split between cloud and edge for performance, cost and privacy reasons.
• Focus on privacy, security and ethics: As data use grows, laws, security measures and ethical AI become crucial.
• Green computing and sustainability: Energy-efficient designs and circular-economy thinking to reduce environmental impact.
• Lifelong learning and upskilling: Demand for digital, data and critical-thinking skills increases; soft skills remain important.

Impact for students and practical skills to learn:

• Basic programming and computational thinking
• Data literacy: collect, clean, visualize and interpret data
• Digital citizenship: privacy, safe online behaviour and ethics
• Familiarity with cloud tools, collaboration platforms and simple IoT kits

Summary: Emerging technologies are not isolated — they form ecosystems that transform industries and daily life. Awareness and foundational skills (coding, data handling, cyber hygiene and problem-solving) prepare students for future opportunities.

Overview: Practical ICT Skills and Professional Practice covers hands‑on use of information and communication technologies in everyday and workplace situations. It teaches how to create, manage, share and protect digital information while following professional norms and ethics.

Core areas:

• Productivity tools: Word processing (documents, templates, mail merge), spreadsheets (formulas, functions, charts), and presentations (slides, multimedia, slide design).
• File & data management: Naming conventions, folder structures, backup and recovery, file formats (DOCX/PDF/CSV/JPG), and basic data organization.
• Internet & communication: Effective email use (subject lines, attachments, etiquette), online collaboration (cloud drives, shared documents), and virtual meeting best practices.
• Security & digital citizenship: Strong passwords, two‑factor authentication, recognising phishing, safe browsing, intellectual property and proper citation.
• Basic networks & hardware awareness: Understanding bandwidth, Wi‑Fi basics, peripheral setup and routine troubleshooting.
• Professional practice: Creating CVs/portfolios, maintaining e‑portfolios, version control (file versions/track changes), workplace communication standards, accessibility and inclusion.

Skills emphasised: accuracy, clarity, time management, collaboration, data privacy, and ethical behaviour. Students learn to produce clear professional documents, use spreadsheets to analyse data, present findings visually, protect digital assets, and collaborate online.

Assessment tasks (typical): prepare a professional resume (PDF), make a budget spreadsheet with formulas and charts, design a slide deck for a project, set up a shared folder and manage file versions, and write a formal email with attachments.

Best practices:

• Use descriptive filenames and dates (e.g., "ProjectReport_2025-10-11_v1.pdf").
• Keep backups (local + cloud) and test restores periodically.
• Apply least privilege: share only necessary files and grant minimal access rights.
• Follow accessible design: use readable fonts, alt text for images, and sufficient contrast.
• Document work and keep version notes when collaborating.