UNIVERSITY OF IRINGA
FACULTY OF ARTS AND SOCIAL SCIENCES (FASS)
DEPARTM ENT OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
NAME OF COURSE: INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
LECTURER’S NAME: MR. MAUNA
STUDENT’S NAME: KEZIA M. KIGINGA
REGSTRATIO NO: UOI BACD 2023 0083
NATURE OF WORK: INDIVIDUAL ASSIGNMENT
DATE OF SUBMISSION: 13TH, MAY, 2024
QUESTIONS
1. Case Study Analysis:
Consider a scenario where a local community organization needs to coordinate volunteers for disaster
relief efforts across different neighborhoods. Describe how this organization can utilize communication
technology to efficiently manage volunteer assignments and share information. What challenges might
they face in ensuring effective communication across various areas, and how could these challenges be
addressed?
2. Layer Presentation:
Imagine you are explaining how a postal system works to a group of younger students. Break down the
process into layers, with each layer representing a different aspect of the delivery process (e.g..
addressing, sorting. and transportation). Describe what happens at each layer and how it contributes to the
successful delivery of mail and packages.
3. Troubleshooting Exercise:
You're hosting a neighborhood movie night using a projector connected to a laptop, but the movie keeps
freezing and buffering. As the "tech expert" among your friends, identify potential reasons for this issue
and suggest simple troubleshooting steps they can take to improve the viewing experience without getting
too technical.
4. Protocol Comparison:
Let's compare two common modes of communication: talking on the phone and sending letters through
the mail. Discuss how these methods are similar to and different from using email and social media.
Consider factors like immediacy, privacy, and the personal touch of communication when making your
comparisons.
5. Network Design Project:
Your assignment is to plan a community event in a large park, involving multiple activities spread across
different areas. Design a communication system that allows organizers to coordinate activities, manage
crowd flow, and provide assistance to participants. Consider using simple devices like walkie-talkies,
signs, and maps to create an efficient network that enhances the overall experience of the event for
attendees.
1. The following are the challenges that a local community organizations might face in
ensuring effective communication across various areas
Misunderstandings; One of the primary reasons misunderstandings occur at work is because
people have different assumptions, perspectives, and experiences. This can lead to
miscommunication when people assume that others know what they are talking about or that
others have the same perspective. Misunderstandings also happen because of language barriers
or because one person uses technical language, jargon, or slang that the other person isn’t
familiar with. Another cause of misunderstandings is failing to recognize people’s different
communication styles. If you prefer to communicate through written notes but someone else
prefers to interact with verbal instructions, you might have trouble getting on the same page.
Lack of Clarity; Confusion and conflict arise when teams aren’t clear about what they are
supposed to be doing or what’s expected of them. What creates a lack of clarity? Things like
missing details, insufficient information, or unclear goals. Lack of clarity also makes feedback
more difficult, affecting people’s quality of work and ability to improve.
Lack of Attention; There are a few reasons why lack of attention leads to internal
communication challenges. First, when people do not pay attention, they do not fully listen to
what is being said. This can lead to them missing pertinent information or details. At best, this
leads to workflow problems, but acting without the right information can be catastrophic for
example, if inattention leads to product defects or unsecured work environments with physical
risks, such as construction sites.
Cultural Differences; Your cultural background, family experiences, and other factors can
influence how you communicate, including what you consider as norms, what is polite, and what
is not to be communicated. For example, some cultures are more direct than others, and some
may emphasize body language in communication more than others. What one culture may
consider rude or inappropriate could be normal to another, so it is important to stay open-minded
and avoid assumptions. Cultural differences also include differences between norms at
companies, and job roles, which can affect communication within cross-functional teams or with
external clients.
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Here are tips for addressing Communication Challenges in the Workplace. Whether you
struggle to communicate with your boss, team, or clients, effective communication is
essential to the success of any workplace. Communication issues can lead to
misunderstandings, missed deadlines, and a general feeling of frustration.
Set Clear Expectations and Goals; Setting clear expectations is vital to overcoming workplace
communication barriers. When people know their roles and what is expected of them, they can
focus on what they do best and avoid misunderstandings or confusion. One way to do this is by
sharing your Whole Brain, thinking preferences to help team members better understand how
everyone thinks and how they work best. With that baseline of understanding and trust, you can
move through goal-setting exercises more effectively and use people’s preferred communication
styles to confirm they understand the expectations.
Seek Feedback and Address Concerns; By seeking feedback and addressing concerns,
employees can more effectively identify potential areas of misunderstanding and correct them
before they cause problems. Addressing concerns early on can help prevent them from becoming
larger issues that are more difficult to resolve. When using Whole Brain, thinking to do a walk-
around, you can address concerns in multiple ways based on people’s thinking preferences.
Ask for Clarification When Needed; A major cause of workplace communication issues is
when people are afraid to seek clarification. This can happen in workplaces where people do not
want to appear uninformed. But when people do not ask for clarification and push forward with
their work, your organization can suffer from much bigger problems down the road. When they
feel unclear about something, they shall ask for clarification. Encourage their teams to do the
same by emphasizing the value of questions, curiosity, and cognitive diversity instead of
promoting a culture where people pretend to know everything. Likewise, they shall train their
managers to watch for signs that their message isn’t being received effectively. People
sometimes telegraph their confusion or frustration, but not always. A lack of engagement or
reduced productivity, for example, may indicate that a team isn’t understanding or aligned with
company objectives.
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Implement the Right Communication Tools; Having the right tools in place is an important
step in improving workplace communication issues. When employees communicate with each
other easily and quickly, they can resolve misunderstandings or disagreements while getting to
understand each other’s thinking preferences better. The right tools help improve productivity
and encourage healthier workplace communication. They include communication resources such
as software, project management tools, and the hardware required for a webinar or phone call.
Be Clear and Listen Actively; When communicating with others, it's important to be clear and
concise. This means being respectful and avoiding jargon. Make sure that your message is clear
and that you're not overwhelming the other person with too much information. Active listening is
a key communication skill to combat poor communication. When somebody else is speaking,
make an effort to listen to what they are saying. This means paying attention, asking questions,
and offering feedback.
Avoid Assumptions; The Whole Brain Thinking model can help organization to overcome the
assumptions and grow beyond what they know. Try something new and push the boundaries of
what they know. Flip their assumptions: What if the opposite happens? Ask questions: Instead of
assuming they have the answers, ask questions. Be a curious learner seeking the truth rather than
a “knower” who does not inquire further.
Use Nonverbal Cues; Nonverbal cues such as body language and tone of voice can be just as
important as the words we use when communicating with others. Pay attention to your nonverbal
cues and how the other person might interpret them. For example, people who are introverted
and with a preference for C Quadrant (Red) thinking are particularly likely to express themselves
through nonverbal communication.
2.Layers of the postal systems; The selection of package and its distribution can be describe
between postal systems and the way of its connection on the basis of the model principles for
communication of open systems. We will describe not only the immediate shipment of package
between the systems, but also the abilities of the system to collaborate and to create the
interconnected postal systems on the basis of grouping that consists of one or more access points,
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related hardware, terminals / hubs / depots, human features and vehicles used for the carriage of
postal substrate, etc (Zeman, Madleňák, 2010).
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Type of the layer in the postal system and Basic characteristics of the layer.Basic
characteristics of the layers formation in the postal system are includes;
Application - layer number 7; The application layer includes the postal service of which
disclosure is required by the sender through the entry of the postal system.
Presentation - layer number 6; The presentation layer transforms the package into the shape
that is used by application. It determines the conditions for the requested service and it sets rules
for the choice and distribution of packages. The protocols are based on legislative measurement.
It deals with the formal aspect of package (cover, address information) and with the preservation
of information content during the transport. Its task is to ensure the secrecy of correspondence.
Session - layer number 5;The relational layer organizes and synchronizes dialog between co-
relational layers of both systems and it controls the exchange of data between them. It creates a
connection between the sender and the addressee through the application of defined protocols-
the selection of suitable cover for package and the presentation of personalized features,
followed by submission of package- the enter into the postal system. The mailbox or partition are
considered to be the interface. In the case of system´s failure to deliver the package, it may be
returned to the sender on the basis of referred synchronized data- address (sender, recipient).
Transport - layer number 4; The transport layer manages the transport of postal item from end
node source (open system), into targeted end node (open system) that is not realised in
internodes. This layer reminds us an illusion as if each node in the network had direct
connections with any other node. It ensures the creation of transport units from expedition of
packages and their deconsolidation in delivery. Its purpose is to provide such quality distribution
that is required by higher layers. This required quality is maintained throughout whole time of
the transport connection. Higher layer is informed in the case of quality failure (service T & T).
This includes for example the application of protocols related to the requirements for distribution
with guarantee (recorded packages as registered mail, insurance ...) and the requirements for
distribution without guarantee (nonregistered mail). The guarantee can be applied also to loss
and damage of the package.
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Network - layer number 3; The network layer takes care about the direction of packages within
the network and network addressing. It provides the connection between the systems that are not
neighbouring ones. It means, that some systems have a function of an end source (post) and a
goal of dispatched package (the delivery post office, PO Box...) and vice versa. Some open
systems have functions of internode link (processing centres) that ensures the handover of
distributed postal substrate to another systems. The basic function of this layer is a collection of
network-oriented protocols for the goal of correct shipment (sorting feature, e.g. Zip code) and
crossing of different technological characteristics that are applied in individual networks. This
layer provides a connecting path between endpoints (the sender and the addressee), including the
use of internodes. It is responsible for the selection of the best path between the terminal
equipment and transport between them, as well as the delivery.
Line - layer number 2; The line (data link) layer provides a connection between two
neighbouring systems, respectively nodes. It identifies and organizes packages from the physical
layer into logical units and it provides the connection of neighbouring nodes and enables the
setting of transmission data between two nodes. Its function is also to ensure the formation of
transport units on the basis of codes such as: (ZIP, ZIP code, label of direction...), and it
announces the errors of sorting and loading. Its task is to ensure the functions in transport of
postal substrate between the network units and the detection of errors that occur in physical
layer.
Physical - layer number 1;The physical layer (the lowest layer of architecture) is identified as a
physical communication (shipment) in available infrastructure (road, rail, air, water), that is
provided through physical media (a means of transport). This layer specifies the characteristics
of individual vehicles (postal rates), such as capacity, loading surface and it also defines the way
of shipment. Another devices that belong into this layer are different types of nodes for example
(depots, hubs ...).
3.There are lots of programs that like to install things that run in the background. Depending on
how many have done this, your startup will get longer and longer. They will all be running in the
background taking up memory and processing time. If you run out of active memory, your
computer will have to pass things back and forth the hard
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Laptops freezing or suffering can be caused by various factors, and it can happen to both
new and old laptops, regardless of their hardware specifications. Some common reasons for
laptops freezing and suffering include:
Insufficient RAM: If my laptop does not have enough RAM to handle the tasks that I am
running, it can lead to freezing and suffering as the system struggles to keep up with demands.
Overheating: If my laptop overheats, it can cause the system to slow down or freeze to prevent
damage to the hardware. This can happen if the cooling system is not working properly or if the
laptop is being used on a soft surface that blocks airflow.
Software Issues: Problems with the operating system or software applications can cause a laptop
to freeze or hang. This could be due to a bug in the software, conflicts between programs, or
corrupted system files.
Driver Issues: Outdated or incompatible device drivers can also lead to freezing or hanging. It is
important to keep drivers up to date to ensure smooth operation.
Malware: Malicious software can also cause a laptop to freeze or hang. Malware can consume
system resources, interfere with system processes, or cause other issues that lead to system
instability.
Hardware Failure: In some cases, hardware issues such as a failing hard drive, faulty RAM, or
a damaged motherboard can cause a laptop to freeze or hang.
The following are the simple troubleshooting steps I can suggest to take to improve the
viewing experience without getting too technical
Check for malware: Run a full scan with my antivirus software to check for any malicious
programs that could be slowing down my computer.
Free up disk space: Delete unnecessary files and programs, and use the disk cleanup tool to free
up space on my hard drive.
Update my operating system and drivers: to make sure my operating system and device
drivers are up to date, as outdated software can cause performance issues.
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Check for overheating: to ensure that my computer's cooling system is working properly and
that the vents are not blocked to prevent overheating.
Close unnecessary programs: I can check my task manager to see if there are any resource-
intensive programs running in the background, and close them if necessary.
Restart my computer: Sometimes a simple restart can help resolve performance issues by
clearing out temporary files and resetting processes.
Consider hardware upgrades: If my computer is old, I can upgrading the RAM or replacing
the hard drive with a solid-state drive (SSD) can significantly improve performance.
4. Communication; is the process of using verbal and nonverbal cues to transmit information
from one person to another in meaningful way. As in our protocol comparison we are using
Email and Telephone.
Email: is a means of communication in which used in sending different messages or information
through electronic media of communication such as telephone.
Telephone; this is the form of oral communication in which message is transmitted through the
use of spoken words.
The following are the similarities of using email to send letters and talking on phone
considering the factors like immediacy, privacy and the personal touch of communication.
Immediacy; sending letters through email and talking on phone both are speed communication
for instance information or messages exchanged quickly within a short time
Privacy; sending letters through email and talking on phone both means has privacy if someone
do not mistaken to sender letters through email to concerned person, the same to phone
communication you can share your privacy without anyone interfered.
Personal touch; both talking on phone and sending letters through email can touch someone
who gets the message or information this is due to facts that this model of communication are
more persuasive in nature.
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On other hand, here are differences between using email to send letters and talking on
phone considering the factors like immediacy, privacy, and personal touch of
communication. Starting with sending letters through email
Immediacy; Email is fast, efficient, cost-effective, and allows for the quick exchange of
information. It is also easily searchable and can include attachments such as documents or
images.
Privacy: Email is best suited for communication that is relatively informal, non-urgent, or
requires documentation or a paper trail. It is commonly used for business correspondence,
sending memos, sharing updates, and exchanging information between colleagues.
Personal touch communication; sending letters through email can touch someone through data
shared includes, document, emojis and images.
Talking on phone
Immediacy; talking on phone provides immediately feedback and clarification. On the spot
someone can adds and corrections are possible during the time of communication.
Privacy; The telephone allows for real-time communication. It is also more personal than email
and can convey tone and emotion effectively.
Personal touch of communication; The telephone is best suited for conversations that require
immediate feedback, are more complex or sensitive in nature, or where tone and emotion need to
be conveyed effectively. It is commonly used for customer service, sales calls, job interviews,
and important discussions.
5. Network; is the connection of two devices for the purpose of sharing resources, information
and data. Such resources can be file, a folder, a printer and anything else.
Project; is a set of activities that is aiming to achieve a specific goal.
My project is resource mapping which is aiming to learn about a community and its resources
base.Mainly, this project is defined by these three objectives: Knowing the clients priorities,
define network requirements and compare network solutions.
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Share Used for everything from accessing the internet or printing a document to downloading an
attachment from an email, networks are the backbone of business today. They can refer to a
small handful of devices within a single room to millions of devices spread across the entire
globe, and can be defined based on purpose and/or size.
I design a communication system that allows organizers to coordinate activities, manage crowd
flow, and provide assistance to participants. Considering the use of simple devices like walkie-
talkie, sign and maps to create an efficient network that enhances the overall experience of the
event for attendees
Personal Area Network (PAN); The smallest and most basic type of network, a PAN is made
up of a wireless modem, a computer or two, phones, printers, tablets, etc., and revolves around
one person in one building. These types of networks are typically found in small offices or
residences, and are managed by one person or organization from a single device.
Local Area Network (LAN); I am confident that you have heard of these types of networks
before – LANs are the most frequently discussed networks, one of the most common, one of the
most original and one of the simplest types of networks. LANs connect groups of computers and
low-voltage devices together across short distances (within a building or between a group of two
or three buildings in close proximity to each other) to share information and resources.
Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN); Functioning like a LAN, WLANs make use of
wireless network technology, such as Wi-Fi. Typically seen in the same types of applications as
LANs, these types of networks do not require that devices rely on physical cables to connect to
the network.
Campus Area Network (CAN); Larger than LANs, but smaller than metropolitan area
networks (MANs, explained below), these types of networks are typically seen in universities,
large K-12 school districts or small businesses. They can be spread across several buildings that
are fairly close to each other so users can share resources.
Metropolitan Area Network (MAN); These types of networks are larger than LANs but
smaller than WANs – and incorporate elements from both types of networks. MANs span an
entire geographic area (typically a town or city, but sometimes a campus). Ownership and
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maintenance is handled by either a single person or company (a local council, a large company,
etc.).
Wide Area Network (WAN); Slightly more complex than a LAN, a WAN connects computers
together across longer physical distances. This allows computers and low-voltage devices to be
remotely connected to each other over one large network to communicate even when they’re
miles apart.The Internet is the most basic example of a WAN, connecting all computers together
around the world. Because of a WAN’s vast reach, it is typically owned and maintained by
multiple administrators or the public.
Storage-Area Network (SAN); As a dedicated high-speed network that connects shared pools
of storage devices to several servers, these types of networks don’t rely on a LAN or WAN.
Instead, they move storage resources away from the network and place them into their own high-
performance network. SANs can be accessed in the same fashion as a drive attached to a server.
Types of storage-area networks include converged, virtual and unified SANs.
System-Area Network (also known as SAN); This term is fairly new within the past two
decades. It is used to explain a relatively local network that is designed to provide high-speed
connection in server-to-server applications (cluster environments), storage area networks (called
“SANs” as well) and processor-to-processor applications. The computers connected on a SAN
operate as a single system at very high speeds.
Passive Optical Local Area Network (POLAN); As an alternative to traditional switch-based
Ethernet LANs, POLAN technology can be integrated into structured cabling to overcome
concerns about supporting traditional Ethernet protocols and network applications such as PoE
(Power over Ethernet). A point-to-multipoint LAN architecture, POLAN uses optical splitters to
split an optical signal from one strand of singlemode optical fiber into multiple signals to serve
users and devices.
Enterprise Private Network (EPN); These types of networks are built and owned by
businesses that want to securely connect its various locations to share computer resources.
Virtual Private Network (VPN); By extending a private network across the Internet, a VPN
lets its users send and receive data as if their devices were connected to the private network –
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even if they’re not. Through a virtual point-to-point connection, users can access a private
network remotely.
Therefore, There are a lot of things to take into consideration when planning a network and it is
not done over night, but taking the time and money to plan a network accordingly will most
likely result in something that is sustainable, cost efficient and has a low down time and in the
long run, it is worth it.
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