Computer Technology

Definition

Computer technology refers to the use of computers and related devices to process, store, and communicate information. This includes advancements in hardware, software, networking, and data management that have transformed how people interact, conduct business, and share knowledge, particularly after 1900 when the digital revolution began to reshape economies and societies worldwide.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The development of the first electronic computers in the mid-20th century laid the groundwork for modern computer technology, leading to rapid advancements in processing power.
2. The introduction of personal computers in the late 1970s and 1980s made computer technology accessible to a broader audience, changing the way individuals worked and communicated.
3. The rise of the Internet in the 1990s enabled global connectivity, facilitating instant communication, access to vast information resources, and a new era of digital interaction.
4. Mobile computing devices, such as smartphones and tablets, have expanded the reach of computer technology, allowing users to access information anytime and anywhere.
5. Cloud computing has emerged as a key development in computer technology, enabling users to store and access data remotely while fostering collaboration across different locations.

Review Questions

• How did the introduction of personal computers influence societal interactions and business practices?
  • The introduction of personal computers significantly changed how people interacted and conducted business by making technology more accessible. With personal computers, individuals gained tools for communication via email, word processing for documentation, and access to databases for research. Businesses benefited from improved efficiency in operations, enhanced record-keeping capabilities, and the ability to reach customers through new channels like online advertising.
• Discuss the implications of cloud computing on modern business operations and global connectivity.
  • Cloud computing has had profound implications for modern business operations by allowing companies to store data remotely and access it from anywhere with an internet connection. This shift has led to reduced infrastructure costs as businesses no longer need extensive physical servers on-site. Furthermore, cloud computing has fostered global connectivity by enabling teams across different geographical locations to collaborate seamlessly on projects in real-time.
• Evaluate how computer technology has transformed economies globally since 1900, particularly in terms of labor markets and trade.
  • Since 1900, computer technology has dramatically transformed global economies by creating new labor markets while also disrupting traditional industries. Automation powered by computer technology has led to efficiency gains but also job displacement in certain sectors. Moreover, e-commerce has reshaped trade by facilitating transactions across borders with unprecedented speed and ease, allowing businesses to reach international customers without physical storefronts. This transformation has contributed to the emergence of a more interconnected global economy.

Related terms

Internet:

A global network of interconnected computers that allows for the sharing of information and communication across vast distances.

Artificial Intelligence: The simulation of human intelligence in machines that are programmed to think and learn like humans, impacting various industries and daily life.

E-commerce: The buying and selling of goods and services through electronic platforms, revolutionizing traditional retail practices and consumer behavior.