Introduction:
Welcome to FreshNote, your distinguished Uniblog. We're committed to providing course materials tailored to students in higher institutions in Nigeria and beyond, preparing them for examination. Recently, we Published a full course/outline, handout and summary on GST 105- history and philosophy of science. On this page, whether you are reading this on our website, ebook or other directories, we're going to filter out the noises thereof and give you focal points that will help you prepare for your exam.
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🖥️ Computer base Test (CBT)
Course description
This course provides students with fundamental knowledge of computer systems, their components, operations, and applications. Students will learn basic concepts of computing, computer hardware and software, programming principles, and the role of computers in various fields of human endeavor.
Depending on your school, the course code or title might vary. However, the concept of this course remains the same as long as the Nigerian university curriculum is involved. Here are common titles for this course adopted by various universities.
“Introduction to Computer Science"
"Computer Fundamentals"
"Use of Computer Applications"
"Computer Appreciation"
"Fundamentals of Information and Communication Technology (ICT)"
"Introduction to Information Technology"
E.g Usmanu Danfodiyo University of Sokoto: Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
Federal University Oye-Ekiti: Use of Library and Introduction to ICT
Fuoye (Federal University Oye-Ekiti):Use of Library and Information, Communication and Technology (ICT)
National Open University of Nigeria: Computer Fundamentals. So Irrespective of the names given by different institutions, the main lesson of the course is constant.
Course Objectives
By the end of this course, students should be able to:
Define and explain basic computer concepts and terminology
Identify and describe computer hardware and software components
Understand the evolution and classification of computer systems
Demonstrate basic computer programming concepts
Use common application software effectively
Understand networking and internet fundamentals
Appreciate computer applications in various fields
Content:
Exam Focus full course/handout
Course outline
Lesson Notes ( available on the outline section and E-library)
Video tutorial (available on our E-library)
Questions and answers (available on our CBT page)
Handout and summary for GST 103, computer fundamentals.
Part 1: Introduction to Computers
Basic Concepts
🖥️🖱️Computer Definition:
An electronic device that can accept data, process it, and produce an output.
Capable of taking input, storing data, processing it, and giving results.
Inventor: Charles Babbage. Lady Ada Lovelace wrote the first computer program, thus, become the first programmer.
Data vs Information:
Data: Raw facts about a person, object, or place (e.g., name, age, height)
Information: Processed data or meaningful statements (e.g., net pay, jamb, neco exam results)
Data Processing Methods
Manual Method
Uses basic tools (pen, pencil, chalk)
Time-consuming, error-prone, limited capacity
Mechanical Method
Uses machines (typewriter, adding machines)
Noisy, hazardous, routine operations
Computer Method
Continuous processing capability
Quiet operation
Data and instruction storage
Easy error correction
High accuracy and reliability
Computer Characteristics
Speed: Incredible processing speed and fast response time.
Accuracy: High correctness/without errors.
Storage: Internal and external storage facilities (measured in K modules where K = 1024).
Automatic: Runs programs automatically once loaded.
Reliability: Consistent performance without fatigue.
Flexibility: Can perform various tasks at a time when programmed properly. E g minimizing and switching from one screen to another.
Computing System Components:
Hardware components: parts that we can see and touch.
Input Unit: Keyboard, mouse, scanner, joystick
Processing Unit: ALU, Control Unit, Main Memory (RAM & ROM)
Output Unit: Monitor (VDU), printer
Software components: tangible wares that can not be seen/touch
System software: security protection.
Utility software. E.g file manager.
Application programs: E.g MS word, Corel draw.
Types of computer Users:
Expert users (engineers, programmers, operators)
End users: users with basic understanding e.g students.
Casual users: (just as the name implies) They use computers by chance, e.g, someone thumb printing during NIN registration.pupils visiting a computer center for excursion.
Computer History and Generations
First Generation (1937-1953)
Used vacuum tubes
Examples: EDVAC, ENIAC (electronic numerical, integrator, and calculator) used basically for calculation.
Machine language programming
Large, expensive, limited reliability, generated a lot of heats.
Second Generation (1954-1962)
Transistor technology
Assembly language introduced
High-level languages: FORTRAN, ALGOL, COBOL
Examples: IBM 704, 7094
Third Generation (1963-1972)
Integrated circuits (ICs)
Operating systems and time-sharing
Examples: IBM 360/91, CDC 6600
Fourth Generation (1972-1984)
Large Scale Integration (LSI) and Very Large Scale Integration (VLSI)
Microprocessors
Personal computers
Examples: CRAY 1, CRAY X-MP
Fifth Generation (1984-1990)
Parallel processing acceptance
Computer networks
Workstation technology
Sixth Generation (1990-present)
Massively parallel computing
Internet and World Wide Web
Advanced networking technologies
Portability and durability.
Classification of computers:
Classification of computers by Signal Type
Digital Computers. e.g modern calculators 📟
Represent variables as digits
Count and process discrete values
Used in business applications
Analog Computers: good example are wall clock, thermometer. ⏰🌡️
Measure continuous variables
Represent variables as electrical voltage
Used in scientific and engineering applications
Hybrid Computers
Combine digital and analog elements
Require conversion elements (digitizers)
Used in aerospace and process control
Classification of Computers by Purpose (what it does)
Special Purpose Computers
Designed for specific tasks
Built-in operations in hardware
Examples: calculator, hand watch, ATM,
General Purpose Computers
Handle wide range of problems
Flexible and handles various kinds of tasks.
Examples: desktop computer, laptop, phones etc
Classification of computers by Capacity or size
Microcomputers
Single board computers with microprocessor
Types: Desktop, Laptop, Notebook, Palmtop
Examples: IBM, Apple, HP, Dell, phones, advance calculators.
Mini Computers
Memory capacity: 128K to 256K bytes
Introduced in 1965 (DEC PDP-8)
Reliable and smaller than mainframes
Mainframe Computers
Large memory capacity (4K bytes and above)
Execute up to 100 MIPS
Used by many users simultaneously
Part 2: Computer Hardware and Software:
System Unit Components
Front Panel: the front part of a computer includes:
Power button, reset button, turbo button
LED indicators
Floppy disk drives, CD-ROM/DVD drives
Key lock etc.
Back Panel: things you can find on the the back or side of a computer:
Power sockets, fan housing
Serial ports, parallel ports
Keyboard and mouse ports
Monitor port, network adapter
Sound jacks, expansion card slots etc.
Internal Components: components inside a computer includes :
CPU (Central Processing Unit): the heart and brain of a computer, Main processing chip
RAM: Temporary memory for active programs
ROM: Permanent memory with startup instructions
Hard Disk Drive: Main storage device
Motherboard: Main circuit board connecting all components
Power Supply Unit: Converts AC to DC power etc.
CPU Evolution
Intel Processor Generations:
8086/8088 (1978-81): 29,000 transistors
80286 (1984): 134,000 transistors
80386 (1987-88): 275,000 transistors
80486 (1990-92): 1,200,000 transistors
Pentium (1993-95): 3,100,000 transistors
Modern processors: Millions to billions of transistors
Storage Devices
Primary Storage:
RAM (Random Access Memory): Volatile, temporary storage
ROM (Read Only Memory): Non-volatile, permanent instructions e.g memory card, CD-ROM.
Secondary Storage:
Hard Disk 🗃️: Main permanent storage
Floppy Disk 🗂️: Portable storage often (5¼" or 3½")
CD-ROM 💿: Optical storage
Input Devices
These devices aid in controlling and instructing the computer.
first is the computer Keyboard: ⌨️
Function Keys: F1-F12, software-dependent
Alphanumeric Keys: combination of numbers and Letters. some laptop keyboard has both numbers and alphabet on the same keys ➡️QWERTY-123456.
Cursor Control Keys: Arrow keys, Home, End, Page Up/Down (the computer cursor can be control without mouse)
Numeric Keypad: Number entry 0-9
Special Keys: control (Ctrl), Alt, Shift, Enter (command key), Delete, Insert
Shortcut keys on MSW or Doc interface: Ctrl + A (select all) Ctrl+B (Bold text) Ctrl + C (copy), Ctrl - V (paste copied text), Ctrl + X → Cut (removes selected text, file, or object and stores it in clipboard). Ctrl + Y → Redo (re-applies an action that was undone). Ctrl + Z → Undo (reverses the last action).
Other Input Devices:
Mouse🖱️ and trackball 🖲️
Scanner (flatbed, sheetfed, hand scanners)
Joystick 🕹️
Digital/graphics tablet
Output Devices
Part of a computer that gives signals or information.
First is the Printer 🖨️ it produces results in hardcore (paper form etc) below are types of printer.
Dot-matrix: Impact printer using pins
Inkjet: Spray ink through nozzles
Laser: Use toner and magnetic rollers
Second output component is the Monitors (the computer screen) 🖥️
VGA (640x480) and SVGA (800x600) resolution
Various sizes (14", 15", 17", 21")
Auxiliary Equipment: optional part of a computer (A computer can still function without them)
Air Conditioner: Temperature and dust control
Voltage Stabilizer: Protection from power surges
UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply): Backup power and voltage conditioning
Line Voltage Transformer: Voltage conversion (110V ↔ 240V)
Computer Software
System Software
These are softwares/ applications that are integrated part of the system (inbuilt applications)
Operating System Functions:
Resource management
Process management
Memory management
File management
I/O system management
Security and protection
Types of Operating Systems:
Batch Processing: Jobs processed in groups
Time Sharing: Multiple users simultaneously
Real-time: Immediate response systems
Multiprogramming: Multiple programs in memory
Distributed: Multiple interconnected computers
Language Translators
Assembler: Converts assembly language to machine code
Interpreter: Translates and executes line by line
Compiler: Translates entire high-level program to machine code
Utility Software
Utility software is a type of system software that is designed to help manage, maintain, and control computer resources. E.g antivirus like vast, Norton etc.
File conversion and copying
Housekeeping operations
System maintenance tools
Security system/memory cleaners
Application Software
Application software is a type of computer program that is designed to help the end-user perform specific tasks. E.g music and video players, MS word, games. In fact, these are users-choice application. A gamer will like to install games, a designer will love to install Corel draw, a grocery store owner will love to install inventory manager.
Word Processing: software responsible for texts creation and editing.
Document creation and editing
Examples: MS Word, WordPerfect
Spreadsheets:
Numerical calculations and analysis
Examples: Excel, Lotus 1-2-3
Database Management:
Data storage and retrieval
Examples: dBase, Access, FoxBase, Google firebase.
Graphics and Design: Software for designing:
Image creation and editing
Examples: Photoshop, CorelDraw
Programming Concepts
Programming Languages
Machine Language (1GL): Binary code (0s and 1s)
Assembly Language (2GL): Symbolic representation
High-Level Languages (3GL): Problem-oriented (FORTRAN, COBOL, Pascal)
Very High-Level Languages (4GL): Non-procedural, menu-driven
Programming Principles
Good Program Characteristics:
Accuracy: Does what it's supposed to do
Reliability: Consistent performance
Efficiency: Optimal resource usage
Robustness: Handles invalid input
Maintainability: Easy to modify
Readability: Well-documented code
Programming Stages
Problem definition
Algorithm development
Method development (flowcharts, pseudocode)
Coding in programming language
Translation to machine code
Debugging
Testing
Documentation
Algorithm and Flowchart Concepts
Algorithm: Step-by-step procedure to solve problems
Flowchart Symbols:
Oval: Start/Stop terminals
Rectangle: Processing operations
Parallelogram: Input/Output
Diamond: Decision points
Circle: Connectors
Arrows: Flow direction
Application Software Modules
Word Processing
Basic Operations:
Document creation and editing
Text formatting (font, size, style)
Paragraph alignment
Insert, delete, copy, move text
Spell checking
Print preview and printing
Key Features:
WYSIWYG (what you see is what you get) display
Auto word wrap
Find and replace
Headers and footers
Tables and graphics integration
Spreadsheets
Basic Concepts:
Worksheet: Grid of rows and columns
Cell: Intersection of row and column
Range: Group of adjacent cells
Formula: Calculations using cell references
Key Functions:
Data entry and editing
Mathematical operations
Chart creation
Data analysis
What-if scenarios
Presentations (PowerPoint)
Components:
Slides with text and graphics
Slide transitions and animations
Speaker notes
Handouts
Views:
Normal view
Slide sorter view
Outline view
Slide show view
Networking and Internet
Internet means international network: According to the English dictionary “internet is the global, decentralized network of computers connected to a hub which communicate with one another using the Internet protocol suite” full course note on this topic here 📚
Network Types
LAN (Local Area Network):
Single building coverage
Common topologies: Star, ring, bus
Components: File server, workstations, shared equipment
WAN (Wide Area Network):
Inter-city connections
Uses telephone system and modems (Wi-Fi, hotspot)
Example: Internet, intranet
Internet Concepts
World Wide Web: (www)🌐
Global network of interconnected documents
Uses HTML (Hypertext Markup Language)
Navigation through hyperlinks
Web Components:
Browser🌎 Software for viewing web pages
URL🔗: (AKS Link)Web address (Universal Resource Locator) think of it as a road to your house. A pathway that leads to specific destination on the internet (web).
Home Page : Starting point for a website. (Forefront content of a website) E.g www.freshnote.com.ng is the homepage of my website.
Hyperlinks: Clickable connections between pages. Think of it as streets leading to various locations within a city.
Internet Services include:
Web browsing
Email communication
File transfer
Newsgroups
Online databases
Email Systems
Components:
Mail: the information sent or received via email.
Inbox: Received messages
Outbox: Messages to be sent
Address book: Contact information
Attachments: Files sent with messages
Operations:
Compose, send, receive messages
Reply and forward functionality
File attachments
Message organization
Uses or function Of Computer by industry.
In the Education sector: 🎒🏫👨🏫
Computer-aided instruction
Distance learning
Library automation
Student record management
Automated timetabling
Digital projectors and presentations
CBT systems like JAMB, FreshNote CBT.
Business and Industry 💼📊 🤵
Payroll processing
Inventory control and tracker
Financial transactions
Point-of-sale systems (POS)
Management information systems
Customer care and data entry
In the Healthcare sector doctor🚑🥼🩺
Patient monitoring systems
Medical diagnosis assistance
Laboratory test automation
Medical record management
Drug administration tracking
Medical imaging systems
Science and Engineering🔬🔭👨🔬
Computer-aided design (CAD)
Simulation and modeling
Research data analysis
Weather forecasting
Critical path analysis
Prototype development
Government and Military 👮🚔🇳🇬
Population records management
Electoral systems
Crime tracking
Defense systems
Surveillance and reconnaissance
Strategic planning systems
Transportation and Communication 🚉🚕📳
Traffic control systems
Navigation systems
Satellite communications
Air traffic control
Railway scheduling
Vehicle maintenance tracking
For Entertainment: 🎧🎮📺
Disc jockey (DJ) mixing/waxing
Gaming
Watching Movies
Playing of musics
Taking pictures
Key Terms and Definitions
Bit: Smallest unit of data (0 or 1)
Byte: 8 bits, represents one character
Kilobyte (KB): 1,024 bytes
Megabyte (MB): 1,024 KB
Gigabyte (GB): 1,024 MB
CPU: Central Processing Unit, the main processor
RAM: Random Access Memory, temporary storage
ROM: Read Only Memory, permanent storage
GUI: Graphical User Interface
DOS: Disk Operating System
URL: Universal Resource Locator
HTML: Hypertext Markup Language
ISP: Internet Service Provider
LAN: Local Area Network
WAN: Wide Area Network
MIS: Management Information System
CAD: Computer Aided Design
Study Tips for Exam Success
Focus on Definitions: Be able to clearly define key terms
Understand Relationships: Know how components work together
Practice Classifications: Be ready to categorize computers, software, networks
Memorize Generations: Know characteristics of each computer generation
Application Examples: Understand practical applications in various fields
System Components: Know functions of hardware and software components
Programming Concepts: Understand flowcharts, algorithms, and language types
Software Operations: Be familiar with word processing, spreadsheet, and presentation tools.
Information technology/ Computer fundamentals Course Outline.
Part 1: INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS.
Point 1: Basic Concepts
Learning Objectives: Students will be able to define computers, distinguish between data and information, and explain data processing methods.
Lessons:
Definition of computer
Basic understanding of data processing
The concept of data and information
Methods of data processing (Manual, Mechanical, Computer)
Characteristics of a computer (Speed, Accuracy, Storage, Automatic, Reliability, Flexibility)
The computing system components
Point 2: Historical Overview of Computers
Learning Objectives: Students will understand the evolution of computers through different generations.
Lessons:
Brief history of computer technology
Evolution of computers
Generations of computers:
First Generation (1937-1953): Vacuum tubes
Second Generation (1954-1962): Transistors
Third Generation (1963-1972): Integrated circuits
Fourth Generation (1972-1984): Microprocessors
Fifth Generation (1984-1990): Parallel processing
Sixth Generation (1990-present): Modern computing
Point 3: Classification of Computers
Learning Objectives: Students will classify computers based on different criteria.
Lessons:
Categories of computers
Classification based on signal type:
Digital computers
Analog computers
Hybrid computers
Classification by purpose:
Special purpose computers
General purpose computers
Classification by capacity:
Microcomputers
Mini computers
Mainframe computers
Point 4: Computer Virus
Learning Objectives: Students will understand computer viruses, their effects, and prevention methods.
Lessons:
Computer virus definition
How to detect computer virus
Mode of transmission of computer virus
Virus properties and effects
Prevention and protection methods
Part 2: COMPUTER HARDWARE AND SOFTWARE
Point 1: Hardware Components (1)
Learning Objectives: Students will identify and explain the functions of computer hardware components.
Lessons:
Essential components of the computer
The system unit:
Front of the system unit
Back of the system unit
Inside the system unit
Central Processing Unit (CPU)
Power supply unit
Motherboard
Memory systems:
Primary memory (RAM, ROM)
Secondary memory (Hard disk)
Tertiary memory (Floppy disk, CD-ROM)
Point 2: Hardware Components (2) - Peripheral Devices
Learning Objectives: Students will understand input and output devices and their functions.
Lessons:
Input devices:
Computer keyboard and its components
Mouse and joystick
Scanners (flatbed, sheetfed, hand scanners)
Digital/graphic tablets
Output devices:
Printers (dot-matrix, inkjet, laser)
Monitors (VGA, SVGA)
Speakers and sound systems
Point 3: Auxiliary Equipment
Learning Objectives: Students will understand the importance of auxiliary equipment in computing environments.
Lessons:
Air conditioner and environmental control
Voltage stabilizer
Uninterruptible Power Supply System (UPS)
Line voltage transformer
Point 4: Computer Software (1)
Learning Objectives: Students will understand system software and its components.
Lessons:
System software overview
Operating systems:
Definition and functions
Types of operating systems
Operating system components
Language translators:
Assemblers
Interpreters
Compilers
Point 5: Computer Software (2)
Learning Objectives: Students will understand utility and application software.
Lessons:
Utility programs
Application software:
Word processing software
Spreadsheet software
Database software
Graphics software
Statistical packages
User programs
Part 3: COMPUTER PROGRAMMING
Point 1: Computer Languages
Learning Objectives: Students will understand different types of programming languages.
Lessons:
Low level languages:
Machine language
Assembly language
High level languages
Very high level languages (4GL)
Programming language evolution
Point 2: Basic Principles of Computer Programming
Learning Objectives: Students will understand programming methodology and stages.
Lessons:
Problem solving with computers
Principles of good programming
Stages of programming:
Problem definition
Algorithm development
Coding
Debugging
Testing
Documentation
Point 3: Flowcharts and Algorithms
Learning Objectives: Students will create flowcharts and write algorithms.
Lessons:
Flowchart symbols and guidelines
Algorithm development
Pseudocode techniques
Decision tables
Program design methodology
Part 4: COMPUTER APPLICATION SOFTWARE
Point 1: Word Processing
Learning Objectives: Students will use word processing software effectively.
Lessons:
Introduction to word processing
Starting and exiting word processors
Creating and editing documents
Text formatting and alignment
Spell checking and printing
Advanced features
Point 2: Spreadsheets
Learning Objectives: Students will create and manipulate spreadsheets.
Lessons:
Introduction to spreadsheets
Creating workbooks and worksheets
Entering and editing data
Using formulas and functions
Formatting and printing
Creating charts and graphs
Point 3: Presentations
Learning Objectives: Students will create effective presentations.
Lessons:
Introduction to presentation software
Creating slides and presentations
Adding text, graphics, and multimedia
Slide transitions and animations
Running slide shows
Design principles
Part 5: NETWORKING, INTERNET AND E-MAIL
Point 1: Networking Fundamentals
Learning Objectives: Students will understand computer networking concepts.
Content:
Network terminology and concepts
Local Area Networks (LANs)
Wide Area Networks (WANs)
Network components and topologies
Network protocols
Point 2: Internet
Learning Objectives: Students will understand internet concepts and usage.
Lessons:
Internet overview and history
World Wide Web (WWW)
Internet addresses and URLs
Web browsers and navigation
Internet Service Providers (ISPs)
Internet terminology and applications
Point 3: Electronic Mail
Learning Objectives: Students will use email systems effectively.
Lessons:
Electronic mail concepts
Email components and functions
Creating and sending emails
Reading and responding to emails
Email attachments
Email etiquette and security
Part 6: COMPUTER APPLICATIONS IN VARIOUS FIELDS
Point 1: Applications in Education
Learning Objectives: Students will understand computer applications in educational settings.
Lessons:
Computer-aided instruction
Educational software
Library automation
Administrative applications
Distance learning
Digital classrooms
Point 2: Applications in Business and Industry
Learning Objectives: Students will understand business applications of computers.
Lessons:
Payroll processing
Inventory control
Financial systems
Management Information Systems (MIS)
Point of Sale (POS) systems
E-commerce applications
Point 3: Applications in Other Fields
Learning Objectives: Students will appreciate the wide-ranging applications of computers.
Lessons:
Healthcare applications
Scientific and engineering applications
Government and military uses
Transportation and communication
Entertainment and gaming
Emerging applications
Revised questions:
Required Resources
Textbooks
Course manual and handouts
Recommended computer fundamentals textbooks
Online resources such as FreshNote and tutorials on various platforms.
Equipment and Software
Computer laboratory access
Microsoft Office Suite or equivalent
Internet connectivity
Web browsers and email clients
Supplementary Materials
Video tutorials, YouTube can suffice.
Online practice exercises. FreshNote CBT app
Current technology magazines and articles
Learning Outcomes- Exam Centered.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will:
Demonstrate comprehensive understanding of computer fundamentals
Identify and explain functions of computer hardware and software components
Apply basic programming concepts and create simple algorithms
Use word processing, spreadsheet, and presentation software proficiently
Navigate the internet and use email effectively
Appreciate the role of computers in various professional fields
Make informed decisions about computer technology adoption and usage
GST103 Computer Fundamentals: Complete Course Summary
GST103 Computer Fundamentals is a comprehensive introductory course that takes students through the essential aspects of computing, from basic concepts to practical applications. The course is structured around six main modules that build upon each other to create a solid foundation in computer literacy. We have provided readers with core lessons of this GST.
We recommend exploring other materials listed above to enrich your knowledge. Practice some questions via our CBT and keep track of your performance.
References
1. Onwodi, G. O. (n.d.). GST103: Computer fundamentals (Course manual, 3 credits). National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN). Retrieved from https://nou.edu.ng/coursewarecontent/GST103%20PDF.pdf
2. National Open University of Nigeria. (n.d.). GST103: Computer fundamentals (Course description). Directorate of Educational Advancement and General Studies (DEAGS). Retrieved from https://deags.nou.edu.ng/gst-courses-descriptions
3. University of Benin. (2022). GST103: Computer fundamentals lecture notes. General Studies Unit, University of Benin, Nigeria.
4. University of Uyo. (2023). GST103: Computer fundamentals handout. General Studies Unit, University of Uyo, Nigeria.