‫عالمہ اقبال اوپن یونیورسٹی اسالم آباد‬

‫‪1431‬‬ ‫کورس کوڈ‬ ‫‪Basics of‬‬ ‫کورس کا نام‬

‫‪ICT‬‬
‫خزاں‬ ‫سمسٹر‬ ‫بی‪-‬اے‬ ‫سطح‬
‫‪2024‬ء‬
‫‪01-04-2025‬‬ ‫اسائمنٹ کی آخری تاریخ‬
‫‪02‬‬ ‫ٹوٹل مشق‬ ‫‪01‬‬ ‫مشق نمبر‬

‫بی ایس‪-‬بی۔ایڈ‪ ،‬بی بی اے‪ ،‬ایم اے اور اے ڈی پروگرامز‬

‫کے اسپیشل اور منفرد اسائنمنٹس کم قیمت میں دستیاب‬
‫ہیں۔‬
‫اگر آپ کو یونیورسٹی سے متعلق کسی بھی مسئلے یا‬
‫معلومات کی ضرورت ہو‪ ،‬جیسے ٹرانسکرپٹ‪ ،‬ڈگری کے‬
‫مسائل‪ ،‬نام کی تبدیلی‪ ،‬یا کوڈ میں ترمیم‪ ،‬تو ہم سے رابطہ‬
‫کریں۔ مزید برآں‪ ،‬ورکشاپ‪ ،‬کوئز‪ ،‬اور دیگر تعلیمی‬
‫سروسز بھی فراہم کی جاتی ہیں۔ شکریہ‬
‫ہم آپ کو معیاری اور بروقت مدد فراہم کرنے کے لیے حاضر ہیں۔‬

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Q.1 (a) Define the term ICT. Describe it with the help of proper examples.

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) refers to the technologies that

provide access to information and facilitate communication. This encompasses all
digital and electronic tools used to handle information, including creation, storage,
transmission, and sharing. ICT includes devices like computers, smartphones, and
tablets, as well as technologies such as the internet, email, cloud computing, and
data processing systems. For example, using email for professional
correspondence is an ICT application as it allows users to share information quickly
and efficiently. Similarly, video conferencing tools like Zoom or Microsoft Teams
enable real-time collaboration, regardless of physical location. ICT has become
integral in bridging communication gaps and increasing the efficiency of both
professional and personal interactions.

(b) Explain the role of ICT in teaching as well as learning.

ICT plays a transformative role in both teaching and learning by enhancing access,
engagement, and effectiveness. In teaching, ICT tools such as interactive
whiteboards, projectors, and online learning management systems (LMS) like
Moodle enable educators to present complex concepts visually and interactively.
This fosters greater understanding and retention. ICT also facilitates remote
teaching, where teachers can deliver lectures to students from distant locations via
platforms like Google Classroom or Zoom. For students, ICT makes learning more
personalized and accessible. Online resources such as Khan Academy and
Coursera provide opportunities for self-paced learning. Moreover, ICT fosters
critical thinking and research skills by enabling students to access vast online
libraries, conduct data analysis, and collaborate on global projects. The integration
of ICT in education has redefined traditional methods, ensuring that learning is no
longer confined to physical classrooms.
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Q.2 (a) Write down the advantages and disadvantages of "Information and
Communication Technology".

Advantages of ICT:

1. Enhanced Communication: ICT has revolutionized how people communicate by

enabling instant messaging, emails, video calls, and social media.

2. Access to Information: The internet provides unlimited access to knowledge,

making education and research more accessible to all.

3. Efficiency in Workplaces: Automation of tasks using ICT tools reduces human

error and increases productivity.

4. Global Connectivity: ICT eliminates geographical barriers, allowing individuals

and businesses to interact and collaborate globally.

5. Cost Reduction: Online banking, e-commerce, and e-governance save time and
money by reducing the need for physical infrastructure.

Disadvantages of ICT:

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 1. Digital Divide: Not everyone has access to ICT
resources, creating inequality in opportunities.

2. Cybersecurity Issues: ICT makes users vulnerable to data breaches, hacking,

and cyberbullying.

3. Dependency and Overuse: Excessive reliance on ICT can lead to reduced

physical activity and social interactions.

4. Obsolescence of Skills: Rapid technological advancements often make existing

skills and tools obsolete.

5. Environmental Impact: The production and disposal of ICT equipment contribute

to electronic waste and environmental degradation.

(b) Explore the importance of ICT in different fields like education, business, and
training. Explain it in detail with the help of examples.

ICT holds immense importance across various sectors due to its ability to
streamline processes and improve outcomes. In education, ICT enables e-learning
through platforms like Coursera and Khan Academy, offering resources to students
worldwide. Virtual classrooms foster global collaboration among students. In
business, ICT facilitates efficient communication through emails, video
conferencing, and cloud storage. For example, customer relationship management
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 (CRM) tools like Salesforce help businesses understand
and cater to their customers' needs effectively. In training,
ICT supports employee development through virtual simulations and e-learning
modules, saving costs and time. For instance, pilots often train using flight
simulators, which replicate real-life scenarios. ICT's application in these fields
demonstrates its transformative potential in fostering innovation and efficiency.

Q.3 (a) Internet is a well-known example of ICT. How does it enable people to
communicate easily through different communication mediums?

The internet, a pivotal component of ICT, facilitates seamless communication

through multiple channels, enhancing connectivity globally. Email remains a
primary communication medium, enabling users to send detailed messages
instantly. Social media platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, and Instagram allow
for real-time text, voice, and video communication. Video conferencing tools such
as Zoom and Google Meet have become indispensable for businesses, education,
and personal use, enabling face-to-face interactions across borders. Additionally,
forums and blogs provide spaces for sharing ideas and fostering discussions. The
internet's ability to integrate various communication modes, combined with its
accessibility, has revolutionized how individuals, businesses, and governments
interact, breaking down geographical and cultural barriers.

(b) Differentiate between the following terms:

1. ICT and Telecommunication:

ICT encompasses all technologies used for information processing and
communication, including hardware, software, and networks. Telecommunication,
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 a subset of ICT, focuses specifically on transmitting
information over distances, primarily through devices like
telephones, satellites, and the internet.

2. Point and Draw Devices:

Point devices like a mouse enable users to select or point to an object on the
screen. Draw devices, such as styluses or graphic tablets, allow users to create
freehand drawings or annotations on digital screens.

3. Memory and Hard Disk:

Memory (RAM) is a temporary storage medium that holds data for immediate
processing. In contrast, a hard disk is a permanent storage medium that retains
data even when the device is powered off.

4. Buses and Ports:

Buses are internal pathways that transfer data between computer components.
Ports, on the other hand, are external interfaces used to connect peripherals like
USB drives or printers to a computer.

Q.4 (a) List the hardware components of a computer. Explain at least five of them
in detail.

The primary hardware components of a computer include the Central Processing

Unit (CPU), Motherboard, Random Access Memory (RAM), Hard Disk Drive
(HDD), Power Supply Unit (PSU), Monitor, Keyboard, and Mouse.
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 1. CPU: Known as the brain of the computer, the CPU
executes instructions and performs calculations to run programs.

2. Motherboard: It acts as the main circuit board, connecting all hardware

components and enabling communication between them.

3. RAM: This volatile memory temporarily stores data that the CPU needs for
immediate processing.

4. Hard Disk Drive (HDD): It is a non-volatile storage device that stores operating
systems, applications, and user data.

5. Power Supply Unit (PSU): The PSU converts electrical energy from an outlet
into usable power for the computer components.

(b) Why are the internet and cell phones considered good examples of ICT?
Explain and exemplify it in detail.

The internet and cell phones epitomize ICT due to their ability to facilitate
instantaneous communication and information sharing. The internet connects
users globally, providing access to unlimited resources and services, from
educational platforms to online shopping. Cell phones, particularly smartphones,
combine the functionalities of telecommunication and computing. For instance,
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 apps like WhatsApp and Skype enable voice and video
calls, while mobile banking apps offer financial services.
Together, these tools empower users by providing accessibility, convenience, and
efficiency, bridging gaps in communication and fostering global connectivity.

Q.5 Write short notes on the following topics:

Voice Reproduction System:

A voice reproduction system converts digital text or signals into audible speech. It
is widely used in GPS devices, voice assistants like Siri, and accessibility tools for
visually impaired users.

Multimedia Projector:
Multimedia projectors display visual content onto a large screen, commonly used
in classrooms, conferences, and cinemas. They support formats like PowerPoint,
videos, and images.

Speech Synthesizer:
A speech synthesizer converts written text into synthetic speech, enabling
applications in virtual assistants, accessibility tools, and educational devices.

Plotters:
Plotters are specialized printers designed for large-scale outputs, such as
architectural plans and engineering drawings. They offer high precision and detail,
ideal for professional use.

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 ‫عالمہ اقبال اوپن یونیورسٹی اسالم آباد‬

‫‪1431‬‬ ‫کورس کوڈ‬ ‫‪Basics of‬‬ ‫کورس کا نام‬

‫‪ICT‬‬
‫خزاں‬ ‫سمسٹر‬ ‫بی‪-‬اے‬ ‫سطح‬
‫‪2024‬ء‬
‫‪01-04-2025‬‬ ‫اسائمنٹ کی آخری تاریخ‬
‫‪02‬‬ ‫ٹوٹل مشق‬ ‫‪02‬‬ ‫مشق نمبر‬

‫بی ایس‪-‬بی۔ایڈ‪ ،‬بی بی اے‪ ،‬ایم اے اور اے ڈی پروگرامز‬

‫کے اسپیشل اور منفرد اسائنمنٹس کم قیمت میں دستیاب‬
‫ہیں۔‬
‫اگر آپ کو یونیورسٹی سے متعلق کسی بھی مسئلے یا‬
‫معلومات کی ضرورت ہو‪ ،‬جیسے ٹرانسکرپٹ‪ ،‬ڈگری کے‬
‫مسائل‪ ،‬نام کی تبدیلی‪ ،‬یا کوڈ میں ترمیم‪ ،‬تو ہم سے رابطہ‬
‫کریں۔ مزید برآں‪ ،‬ورکشاپ‪ ،‬کوئز‪ ،‬اور دیگر تعلیمی‬
‫سروسز بھی فراہم کی جاتی ہیں۔ شکریہ‬
‫ہم آپ کو معیاری اور بروقت مدد فراہم کرنے کے لیے حاضر ہیں۔‬

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Q.1 (a) What is meant by computer software?

Computer software refers to a collection of instructions, data, or programs

that enable a computer to perform specific tasks. Unlike hardware, which is
the physical component of a computer, software is intangible and consists
of code written in programming languages. Software is broadly categorized
into two main types: system software and application software. System
software, such as operating systems, manages the hardware and provides
an environment for applications to run. For instance, Windows and macOS
are system software. On the other hand, application software, like
Microsoft Word or Adobe Photoshop, helps users perform specific tasks.
Software acts as the intermediary between the user and the computer’s
hardware, making it indispensable for the effective functioning of modern
devices.

(b) Differentiate between system software and application software.

System software and application software serve distinct purposes and

operate at different levels within a computer system. System software acts
as the foundation of a computer, managing hardware resources and
enabling other software to function. Examples include operating systems
like Linux, device drivers, and utility programs. It operates in the
background and is essential for the system's core functionality. In contrast,
application software is designed to help users perform specific tasks or
activities, such as writing documents, editing photos, or browsing the
internet. Examples include web browsers like Google Chrome, word
processors like Microsoft Word, and games. While system software
interacts directly with the hardware, application software depends on
system software to function effectively.

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Q.2 (a) What is meant by an operating system? Define it in detail with the
help of different examples.

An operating system (OS) is a system software that acts as an interface

between the user and the computer's hardware. It is responsible for
managing hardware resources, such as the CPU, memory, and storage, and
ensuring that software applications run smoothly. The OS handles critical
tasks like file management, process scheduling, and system security. For
example, Microsoft Windows is a popular OS for personal computers, while
Android is widely used in smartphones. Linux is an example of an open-
source OS that is favored for its security and customization. Operating
systems also support multitasking by allowing multiple applications to run
simultaneously, ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently. Without
an OS, using a computer would be nearly impossible for most users.

(b) Explain the different functions of an operating system.

The operating system performs several essential functions that ensure the
smooth operation of a computer system.

1. Process Management: It manages the execution of processes, allocating

CPU time and resources to ensure efficient multitasking.

2. Memory Management: The OS oversees the allocation and deallocation

of memory, ensuring that applications have sufficient memory to operate.

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 3. File Management: It provides a structured way to
store, retrieve, and manage data on storage devices.

4. Device Management: The OS handles communication between the

computer and peripheral devices, such as printers and keyboards, using
device drivers.

5. Security: It protects data and resources from unauthorized access

through user authentication and encryption.

6. User Interface: Operating systems provide graphical or command-line

interfaces, making it easier for users to interact with the system. These
functions collectively ensure that the computer operates efficiently and
securely.

Q.3 (a) Identify basic elements of a communication system.

A communication system comprises several fundamental elements that

work together to transmit and receive information effectively. These
include:

1. Sender: The originator of the message, which could be a person, a

machine, or a computer.

2. Message: The information, data, or signal that needs to be transmitted.

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 3. Medium: The channel through which the message
travels, such as wired cables, optical fibers, or
wireless networks.

4. Receiver: The recipient of the message who interprets the information.

5. Feedback: A response from the receiver to confirm that the message was
received and understood.

6. Noise: Any interference that disrupts or distorts the message during

transmission. These elements are essential for any successful
communication process.

(b) Differentiate between Simplex, Half Duplex, and Full Duplex with the
help of proper examples.

Communication systems can be classified based on the direction of data

flow.

1. Simplex: In simplex communication, data flows in only one direction. An

example is a keyboard sending input to a computer. The computer cannot
send data back to the keyboard.

2. Half Duplex: In half-duplex communication, data flows in both directions,

but only one direction at a time. Walkie-talkies are a classic example, where
one person speaks while the other listens.

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 3. Full Duplex: In full-duplex communication, data
flows in both directions simultaneously. Telephones
exemplify full duplex as both parties can talk and listen at the same time.

Q.4 (a) Define multimedia system with the help of a diagram and explain its
different characteristics.

A multimedia system integrates various types of media, such as text,

images, audio, video, and animations, to create a cohesive and interactive
experience. It relies on hardware and software to store, process, and
deliver content effectively. For instance, a multimedia presentation may
include slides with text, background music, and embedded videos. Key
characteristics of a multimedia system include interactivity, integration of
different media formats, and the ability to provide a dynamic user
experience.

(Diagram Description: A central multimedia system connecting input

devices like microphones and scanners with output devices like projectors
and speakers, all managed by software.)

(b) Identify various applications of multimedia that play an important role in

our daily lives.

Multimedia applications have become integral to numerous aspects of daily

life. In education, multimedia enhances learning through interactive
tutorials and simulations. For example, Khan Academy uses videos and
interactive exercises to teach concepts. In entertainment, multimedia
powers video games, streaming platforms, and virtual reality experiences.
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 Businesses use multimedia for advertising and virtual
meetings, such as creating video advertisements or
hosting webinars. In healthcare, multimedia is used for virtual
consultations and instructional animations for medical training. These
diverse applications demonstrate how multimedia enriches both personal
and professional spheres.

Q.5 (a) What is a programming language? How is a computer program

related to a programming language?

A programming language is a set of instructions and rules used to

communicate with a computer to create software applications. It serves as
a medium for developers to write code that a computer can understand and
execute. Examples include Python, Java, and C++. A computer program is a
sequence of these instructions written in a programming language to
perform specific tasks. For instance, a program written in Python can
automate repetitive tasks, like organizing files on a computer. Thus,
programming languages are essential tools for creating and running
computer programs.

(b) What is the difference between Low-Level and High-Level Language?

Programming languages are categorized based on their level of abstraction

from machine code. Low-level languages, such as Assembly and Machine
Language, are closer to the hardware and provide precise control over
system resources. They are fast and efficient but difficult to learn and use.
In contrast, high-level languages, like Python and Java, are user-friendly,
abstracting complex hardware operations into simpler commands. High-
level languages are easier to learn and are widely used for developing
applications, but they rely on interpreters or compilers to translate code
into machine-readable form.

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