Chapter 6: Impacts of Computing Grade 9

Impacts of Computing
Short Answers to the Questions:

1. Illustrate the responsible use of computer hardware by an individual.

• Use energy-efficient devices and turn them off when not in use.

• Handle hardware with care to prolong its life and reduce e-waste.

• Recycle or dispose of old hardware responsibly.

• Regularly clean and maintain devices to ensure proper functioning.

2. What does appropriate software use entail?

• Installing licensed software rather than pirated versions.

• Keeping software updated to avoid vulnerabilities.

• Using software only for its intended purposes and adhering to its terms of use.

• Avoiding the use of unethical or harmful software like hacking tools or malware.

3. How do you stay safe while conducting data searches online?

• Use trusted search engines and verified websites.

• Avoid clicking on suspicious links or ads.

• Enable safe browsing modes and use ad blockers.

• Do not share personal information on unknown platforms.

4. Extract and enlist some key aspects of responsible social networking.

• Respect others' privacy and opinions.

• Avoid posting false or misleading information.

• Use strong privacy settings to control who sees your content.

• Report and block inappropriate content or behavior.

• Limit screen time to maintain a healthy balance between online and offline life.
Chapter 6: Impacts of Computing Grade 9

5. Sketch the positive impacts of social networking in today’s society.

• Enhances communication and connectivity across distances.

• Facilitates knowledge sharing and learning opportunities.

• Helps businesses promote their products and reach larger audiences.

• Raises awareness about important social and global issues.

• Provides platforms for collaboration and community building.

6. Relate fake news affecting our understanding of current events.

Fake news spreads misinformation, leading to misunderstanding or misinterpretation of real events. It can
distort public opinions, influence political outcomes, and create unnecessary panic or mistrust.

7. Summarize some of the adverse effects of social networking.

• Promotes addiction and decreases productivity.

• Leads to cyberbullying and harassment.

• Causes mental health issues like anxiety and depression.

• Facilitates the spread of misinformation and fake news.

• Reduces face-to-face communication skills.

8. Interpret the dangers associated with the spread of fake news online.

• Misinformation can cause panic, riots, or harm to individuals and communities.

• Influences political and social stability negatively.

• Damages the credibility of legitimate news sources.

• Increases difficulty in identifying trustworthy information.

9. Examine the computing influence on personal privacy.

Computing poses challenges to personal privacy by collecting, storing, and analyzing vast amounts of
personal data. Misuse of this data by companies, hackers, or governments can lead to identity theft,
financial loss, and the erosion of privacy rights.

10. Criticize the role computing plays in shaping educational practices.

While computing has transformed education through e-learning platforms, interactive tools, and access
to resources, it also has downsides. Over-reliance on technology can reduce critical thinking, create
disparities for students without access, and lead to distractions from non-educational content.
Chapter 6: Impacts of Computing Grade 9

Long Answers to the Questions:

1. Identify the precautions that need to be taken to ensure the physical safety of computer hardware.

To ensure the physical safety of computer hardware, the following precautions should be taken:

• Avoid Physical Damage: Place computers and hardware in a secure, stable location to prevent
accidental falls or damage. Use surge protectors to guard against electrical surges.

• Proper Handling: Handle hardware carefully, especially delicate parts like cables, screens, and
ports. Always power down devices properly before unplugging them.

• Environmental Factors: Protect hardware from extreme temperatures, humidity, and direct
sunlight. Avoid placing drinks or liquids near devices to prevent spills.

• Regular Maintenance: Clean hardware regularly using appropriate tools to avoid dust buildup
that can interfere with performance.

• Secure Storage: Store unused hardware in protective cases or containers to avoid damage. Use
security cables or locks in public or shared environments to prevent theft.

2. Judge the meaning of using software legally and ethically.

Using software legally and ethically involves adhering to laws and moral standards that govern software
usage:

• Legal Use: This means obtaining software through legitimate means, such as purchasing licenses
or downloading free versions directly from official sources. Using pirated or cracked software
violates copyright laws.

• Ethical Use: Ethical use involves respecting the intellectual property rights of software creators
by not altering, distributing, or sharing software without permission. Additionally, using software
for its intended purpose and not for harmful activities, such as hacking, aligns with ethical
practices.

• Importance: Legal and ethical software use ensures the sustainability of the software industry,
protects users from malware in pirated versions, and promotes fairness and innovation.
Chapter 6: Impacts of Computing Grade 9

3. Express the ways users can recognize and protect themselves from online cheats and phishing
attempts.

Users can take the following steps to recognize and protect themselves from online cheats and phishing
attempts:

• Recognizing Phishing Attempts:

o Check the sender’s email address for suspicious or misspelled domains.

o Be cautious of messages urging immediate action or requesting sensitive information.

o Avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from unverified sources.

• Protection Measures:

o Use multi-factor authentication (MFA) for accounts to add an extra layer of security.

o Install and regularly update antivirus software to detect and block malicious websites.

o Verify links and websites manually rather than clicking on links in emails or messages.

o Stay informed about common phishing tactics through cybersecurity awareness

programs.

4. Comment on the key ways in which social networking platforms have revolutionized communication
and connectivity in the digital age. Additionally, deduce the positive impacts of these changes on
society.

Social networking platforms have significantly transformed communication and connectivity:

• Key Ways of Revolution:

o Instant Communication: Social networks enable real-time messaging, video calls, and
content sharing across the globe.

o Community Building: These platforms connect people with shared interests, regardless
of geographical location, fostering a sense of community.

o Global Awareness: They provide access to news, trends, and events, helping individuals
stay informed and engaged.

• Positive Impacts on Society:

o Educational Opportunities: Social networks allow access to educational content and

platforms, enhancing learning opportunities.

o Business Growth: Businesses use social media to reach wider audiences, promote
products, and interact with customers.

o Social Causes: Platforms amplify social causes and enable collective action, driving
positive societal changes.
Chapter 6: Impacts of Computing Grade 9

5. Describe the risks associated with online gaming and social networking for children.

Online gaming and social networking pose various risks to children:

• Addiction: Excessive screen time can lead to gaming or social media addiction, affecting mental
health and academic performance.
• Cyberbullying: Children may face harassment or bullying from peers on social platforms.

• Exposure to Inappropriate Content: Games and social networks may expose children to violent,
explicit, or harmful material.

• Stranger Danger: Predators may use gaming or networking platforms to exploit or harm children.

• Privacy Risks: Children may unknowingly share personal information, making them vulnerable to
identity theft or scams.

• Health Concerns: Prolonged usage can lead to physical issues, such as eye strain and poor
posture.

6. Devise steps for governments and businesses in leveraging computing to drive economic growth and
innovation.

Governments and businesses can take these steps to harness computing for economic growth and
innovation:

• Invest in Technology Infrastructure: Build robust digital networks to enable high-speed internet
and access to computing resources.

• Support Research and Development (R&D): Provide funding and incentives for technological
innovations and startups.

• Encourage Digital Skills Training: Offer education and training programs to build a tech-savvy
workforce.

• Adopt Smart Technologies: Utilize AI, IoT, and big data analytics to improve productivity and
decision-making in industries.

• Promote E-Government Services: Implement online platforms for public services to improve
efficiency and accessibility.

• Encourage Collaboration: Partner with global tech companies and research institutions to foster
innovation.
Chapter 6: Impacts of Computing Grade 9

7. Compare the impact of online platforms and algorithms on cultural diversity and the spread of
global or local culture.

• Positive Impacts on Cultural Diversity:

o Online platforms allow access to diverse content, showcasing traditions, languages, and
customs from around the world.

o They provide a platform for underrepresented communities to share their stories and
perspectives.
o Algorithms can recommend culturally diverse content, broadening users' understanding
of global cultures.

• Spread of Global Culture:

o Platforms promote global culture by making international trends, music, and movies
easily accessible.

o This can foster a sense of global unity but may lead to the dominance of certain cultures
(e.g., Western culture).

• Challenges to Local Culture:

o Algorithms often prioritize popular or mainstream content, which may overshadow local
or niche cultures.

o The influence of global trends can dilute traditional practices, leading to cultural
homogenization.
 Chapter 6: Impacts of Computing Grade 9

Multiple Choice Question

1. Which are the functions of an entrepreneur?

A. Risk bearing
B. Innovation
C. Organizing and managing
D. A, B, C

2. An entrepreneur enters into business to improve quality product by their Invention and discoveries
comes under
A. Technical entrepreneur
B. Professional entrepreneur
C. Novice Entrepreneur
D. A, B, C

3. An entrepreneur who introduces new ideas, methods of production, and discovers newmarkets is called
as
A. Technical entrepreneur
B. Innovative Entrepreneur
C. Novice Entrepreneur
D. None of A, B, C

4. Entrepreneurship can ______ the Gross national Product.

A. Increase
B. Neither
C. Decrease
D. None of A, B

5. Entrepreneurship can ______ the unemployment.

A. Increase
B. Neither
C. Decrease
D. None of A, B

6. A stable and dynamic political environment plays

A. Positive role in business growth
B. Negative role in business growth
C. No role in business growth
D. None of A, B, C

7. A business plan is a written summary of:

A. Proposed business venture
B. Its operational and financial details
C. Its marketing opportunities and strategy
D. A, B, C