TOPIC 06 INTRODUCTION TO INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

TOPIC 06: WEB APPLICATION
Internet and Web;
Internet is a global system interconnected networks that uses the standard internet protocol to serve many  uses. While Web is a collection of electronic documents. It must be noted that the Web and the Internet are two different things, but the web is a service of the Internet.
Therefore, Web applications is an application that is accessed by the users over the internet. This is done with the help of a web browser which allows the user to retrieve data and interact with  content located on the web pages within a website. Web applications commonly use a combination of

• script 
• client and server

web apps
A collection of web document/web page is known as a website. They exist in two types;

• static web (read only web) like educational website or company website
• dynamic web page (web interaction between people and software) like discussion board.

Generation of the Web;

1st generation: Web 1.0

Here Information is displayed on web page as static content (closed to external reading). The web is in html coding 

- Examples is Informational Website

2nd generation: Web 2.0

It is the popular term for advances Internet Technology and applications. Which is the combination of technology allowing user to interact with information. It also provides users with the ability to edit externally.

For example: Web users may extend, undo and redo each other's work.

3rd generation: Web 3.0

It is a semantic web based on the intelligent web applications using machine-based learning and reasoning and intelligent applications. Typical example is DSS/ESS.

Web 2.0 sites are further categorized into two that is: online social networking and mashups and Aggregators.

Online Social Networking;

The functions like an online community of internet users and usually involves websites that are called social sites. Members can share common interests in hobbies, religion, education and politics. One can make friends on these sites and socialize.

Mashups (collecting things together)

It is a web site that takes different content from a number of other web sites and mixes them together to create a new kind of content. it includes social network aggregator and video aggregator.

Types of programming language

Low level languages

Machine Language (1st generation PL). Which uses a series of binary digits (1s and 0s) or a combination of numbers and letters that represent binary digits. for example 0056 89 45 f8.

Assembly language (2nd generation PL). Here a program is written using symbolic instruction codes and symbolic memory addresses. 

High level languages

Procedural languages (3rd generation PL). These are the first to use true English-like phrasing, making them easier to use than previous languages. example include FORTRAN, COBOL

Non procedural languages (4th generation PL). They can  use a text-based environment (like a 3GL) or may allow the programmer to work in a visual environment, using graphical tools.

5th generation languages. which is an object oriented and web development tools. examples include prolog, AJAX, JAVA Script.

Web 2.0 Information Technologies and Applications

1. XML (Extensible Markup Language). It is a markup language for web documents (2.0). It contains structured information including word and pictures. For example <h1>Hardware.
2. AJAX=which is an acronym referring to Asynchronous JavaScript and XML. It is an Object Oriented Programming Language based on C++ programming language. and uses the client-side techniques to create web application.Example of users include Youtube, Gmail, Google  Maps and most of web 2.0 website.
3. Tagging- which is about metadata where keyword  for a piece of information in web (decribe the item).
4. Blogs short form for weblog and is an informal website (articles, diary, journal)/personal log/journal that posted on the web.
5.  Wiki. It is a collaborative website that allows users to create, add, modify or delete website content via their web browser. Most of them are open to modification by public. The popular wiki are Wikipedia and web encyclopedia.
6. RSS (RSS 2.0)= Really Simple Syndication. It is a technology that is being used by millions of web users around the world to keep track of their favorite websites.for example blog lines.
7. Podcasting and Video casting. These are digital media which consists of audio and video. it allow users to download/upload digital media online. For example: using the iTunes free software to subscribe to a specific podcast.

Google Apps Technology;

TOPIC 5; INTRODUCTION TO INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

TOPIC 05; Internet Applications and World Wide Web 

The internet is the largest network in the world that connects people/organization all over the world. It is a global system interconnected networks that uses the standard internet protocol to serve billions of user. 

The internet is used for various purpose such as;
Finding general information /Accessing Information.
Sending (uploading) or receiving (downloading) files between computers.
Sharing resources
To Correspond/meet with people
Shopping for product and services
History of the internet
1960= U.S Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) began to study ways to interconnect network in various kinds.
“ARPANET”- Advanced Research Project Agency Network (1969).
ARPANET quickly evolved and combined with other network.
1986= U.S National Science Foundation (NSF) initiated the development of National Science Foundation Network (NSFNET) which became major component of INTERNET.
1986- Now= INTERNET.
The services provided by the internet include Email, World Wide Web, Protocal, Chat room, Instant messaging, and IR.
Internet services;

The Web;
it was created by Tim Berners Lee and contains hypertext links, or highlighted keywords and images that lead to related information.A web is organized using documents called web pages. A collection of linked Web pages that has a common theme or focus is called a Web site.
A Website is a collection of the documents.
Uniform Resource Locators; used to identify a Web page's exact location. URL  is a four-part addressing scheme that tells the  Web browser: transfer protocol, the domain name, the pathname of the folder or directory on the computer on which the file resides, and the name of the file.

Web: Hypertext Markup Language (HTML); which is the mark up language for displaying web pages and other information that can be displayed in a web browser.

The following are required in order to access the Web;

• Internet connection
• Internet Service Provider
• then you need special software called a browser to access the Web.

Also the internet service can be provided by internet service provider (ISP) which is a  commercial organization that sells temporary connections to subscribers.

Transfer protocol; which is the set of rules/ software that the computers use to move files from one computer to another on the Internet. The most common transfer protocol used on the Internet is the Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) and FTP.

Chat Rooms; is a channel/medium/location on Internet that allow people to chat with each other for examples Real chat, Yahoo Message Chat Room.

VoIP; (Voice Over Internet Protocol) OR “Internet Telephony”. Allows users to make phone call/ video calls/ speak to others over the internet. for example Skype.

News Groups (Forum); Electronic bulletin board that allow people to conduct discussions about specific topic/subject.

TOPIC 4 INTRODUCTION TO INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

TOPIC 04; DATABASE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (DBMS)
In this topic the first thing one needs to understand is that a Database is an organised collection of data. It functions as a storage, to organize and control data in an organisation. A database has the following components
Data item: which  is Field in data processing and it is a piece of information and
Schema: which describes the organization of data and relationships within the database.
The architecture of a modern database consists of actual database (contents), hardware to process and store the data, software to manipulate the contents and people to administer the access, control and modification of data.

DBMS; This is a database program/ software package used for its manipulation. for example Microsoft access oracle, mySQL and clipper. 

DBMS has the following features and functions;

Allow users to create new databases .This is by establishing the logical relationships among different data elements in a database and also defines schemas and subschemas using the DDL

Give users the ability to query& modify the data using (query language or data manipulation).

Query- performs the function of manipulation and processing of the data stored in the database is done using the DML.

It provides information to the decision makers that they need to make important decisions. This information is provided by querying the database using SQL. 

Components of DBMS

Field; which is a specific piece of data.

Record; a group of related fields that describes a person, place, thing or transaction.

Table; which is a collection of records for a single subject such as Students, Products, or Sales.

Key field; this is a field that contains unique information for each record, such as student ID for a student.

Relational database; these are Multiple tables that are linked together to address a business process such as managing timetable, courses, and students.

Objects; they are The parts of an Access database that help you view, edit, manage, and analyze the data: tables, queries, forms and reports.

RELATIONSHIP/SCHEMA;
As mentioned above, it describes relationship between entities and works by matching data in key columns. The relationship can be shown inform of entity relationship diagram (ERD) which exists in 3 forms;
One to One Relationship
In a one-to-one relationship, each row in one database table is linked to 1 and only 1 other row in another table.

One to Many Relationship; each row in the related to table can be related to many rows in the relating table.

Many to Many Relationship; one or more rows in a table can be related to many rows in another table.

 

The users of DBMS are the end users, application programmers and database administrators. It also has several models which include the structure, characteristic, description and organisation.

Types of Database Models

Hierarchical database (contains levels or segments like the organizational chart).

Network database (data are represented by records suing links among them).

Relational database (data is organised in the form of rows and columns as in a table).

Object-relational database.

The method to be used by a given company depends on the following factors;

The organization’s primary goals and requirements.

The volume of transaction/information in organization.

TOPIC 3 INTRODUCTION TO INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

TOPIC THREE;
This topic was mainly concerned with information. it was a very interesting topic as we learnt a great deal of detail on the different type of information systems used in organisations.
Firstly, we defined  information systems as a set of components that is input, processing, mechanisms, out put and feedback to display information.which drives us to CBIS which is a computer based information system which serves the following functions

1. Supporting business operation ( done by TPS, OMS,)
2. Management support system (systems used MIS, DSS, ESS)

That is why companies need both operational, tactical and strategic information in decision making and their respective system for managing them at the different levels.
We also know that the information systems has some components which includes;

•Computer Hardware: tangible part of computer

   a) Input device

b) Processing device

c) Output device

d) Storage device

The intangible parts of the CBIS is the software which manage the operation of the computer. They are also known as programs, divided into three categories and they include:

•System Software

•Application Software

•Programming Language

The last part of the CBIS is the people interacting with it.

Which brought us to the types of information systems which are;

Transaction Processing System (TPS),
Decision Support System (DSS),
Management Support System (MIS) and
Executive Support System (ESS).
In this topic we went a head to discuss all the above information systems in details as follows

TRANSACTION PROCESSING SYSTEM (TPS)
This is  a computerized system which records all the transaction from all the departments in an organisation and keep them into a database. eg the CMS, and Library loan system in AIU.
The following features describe the transaction processing system;
One TPS for each department, used by operational personnel and supervisors, collect, process and store transaction information, its the backbone of an organisation's IS.
We also know that information can be entered ito a TPS ;
Manually by having a person to enter the data using free hands, Automated by capturing the data using bar-code reader or scanner, and Fully automated where the system does entry automatically of any transaction or product needed.
Finally, the methods of transaction processing in TPS are Online processing which involves immediate processing and feedback, and Batch processing where transactions are collected and then processed collectively at a later time.

MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEM (MIS)
This is the information system used by middle level managers to produce reports and also known as the management reporting system (MRS). The source of information for MIS is the transaction processing system only (TPS).

DECISION SUPPORT SYSTEM (DSS).
This is the information system used by middle level managers to make decision. The role of DSS is to provide information to aid managers with decision making. The source of information for this system are both internal and external. the internal sources are the TPS and  MIS while  the external sources are the customers, users and other stake holders.

EXECUTIVE SUPPORT SYSTEM (ESS)
This is the information system used by the top level managers to make strategic decision for an organisation. It provides the information to aid strategic managers in making future plans. The source of information in ESS/EIS are both internal and external. Internally the information for the system are got from the TPS, MIS and DSS while externally the information are got from the users, customers, share holders, competitors and other stake holders.

SYSTEM METHODOLOGY
The concept of information system development (ISD) can be defined as the stages involved in an information system development project. It is the process of defining, designing, testing, and implementing a new software application or program.
While ISD METHODOLOGIES is a collection of procedures, techniques, tools and documentation aids which will help the systems developers in their efforts to implement a new information system. The development of a new system is triggered when there is a problem with the existing system and desire to introduce new system. This process involves the project manager, stake holders, users, programmer, system analyst and  support personnel.
THE STEPS IN ISD PLANNING
Strategic Plan
Develop Objectives
Identify IS Project
Analyze resource
Set Schedule and deadlines
Develop IS
The following are the types of ISD Methodologies;
Gane and Sarsons (STRADIS), Information engineering, Jackson system development, Prototyping iterative approach, Structured approach (SDLC), Soft system methodology, Ethics etc.
The reason why the above methodologies are needed in an organisation are;
 Ensuring system development process is systematic
Allowing system development to be managed to ensure high quality assurance
To achieve effectiveness and efficiency in organization
To meet user requirement in the new system.
Most of these roles are done by the system analyst which include;

• Collecting/ examining/analyzing data and information.
• overseeing the implementation of a new system
• presenting proposals to clients
• drawing up specific proposals for modified or replacement systems

CLASSICAL SDLC

It is the oldest and most known methodology based on a set of generic life cycle stages to guide developers from an initiating through maintenance of the completed systems. SDLC is defined as a whole process of developing system or software to meet certain requirements. It is  a comprehensive method. It covers many activities starts from understanding why the system should be built, studying the project feasibility, analyzing problems, choosing the system design and architecture, implementing and testing it, up to delivering the system as product to the user.

SDLC is characterized by a chronological approach, the user get to see the system late in the development and tight control.

The stages for developing a system using SDLC are;

System Investigation

System Analysis

System Design

System Implementation

System Maintenance and review

The advantages of this method is that it is good for developing any kind of information system, developing large, expensive, and complicated systems and when the project has clear objectives and solution.

PROTOTYPING

This is a system development methodology that uses a trial-and-error approach for discovering how a system should operate. It is done;

BEFORE THE BEGINNING to show proof of concept to senior management

IN THE BEGINNING to gather initial user requirements

IN THE MIDDLE STAGES to confirm system specifications AND pre-train users or to create a marketing demo.

Prototyping is an iterative process and its main objective is to enhance quality of the requirement specification. The process of prototyping involve; Determining requirements, developing a prototype, reviewing prototype with users, implementing and using the system. It is most useful when;

• Prototype model should be used when the desired system needs to have a lot of interaction with the end users.
• Typically suitable for online system, with full screen terminal activities 
• The system does not require large amounts of algorithmic process
• System where the emphasis is on screen layout, report format, data entry and etc (record management system, ad hoc retrieval).

GANE AND SARSONS (STRADIS)

STRADIS stands for Structured Analysis, Design and Implementation of Information Systems.

Chris Gane and Trish Sarson introduced their ideas on systems analysis and design in the late 1970's. 

The methodology remains today as one of the most popular techniques for structured analysis and design of systems.

The Gane & Sarson method is based on the building of a logical model of the system, using graphical techniques to enable users, analysts, and designers to get a clear and common picture of the system and how its parts fit together to meet the user's needs.

The focus of analysis in the Gane and Sarson method is the Data Flow diagram, which is used to describe the processes of the system, and how the processes transform data.

The stages in STRADIS include; Detail Study, Designing alternatives, Physical design and implementating the system.

TOPIC 2: INTRODUCTION TO INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

TOPIC 2: IT AND ICT
Whereas IT(information technology) refers to the form of technology used to create, store, exchange, and use information, ICT(information and communication technology) is similar to IT but focuses majorly on communication technologies like the internet, networks, cell phones and other communication mediums.
The two main concepts in information technology are the IT architecture and IT infrastructure. IT architecture is the lay out of the information equipments in an organization while IT architecture is the physical  IT facilities, components, services, and personnel.
This topic also discussed the types of information system used in organization from the lower level management to the top management.

We went as far as discussing the usage of ICT in education, banking, and business.

TUTORIAL ACTIVITY;

BIBLIOGRAPHY ASSIGNMENT

Watson, W. A. & Anderson, J. L. (1999). Sociology 2000. Boston: Boston.

Bartleby, J. (2006, June 1). Dental malpractice cases: Should you consult your attorney. Retrieved May 29, 2013, from Yahoo Voices: http://voices.yahoo.com/dental-malpractice-cases-consult-attorney-40891.html

Gower, C. (1999). Direction in conservation biology. Journal of animal ecology, 63(3), 215-244.

Rosazman Hussin. (2007). Pelancongan global dan kepentingan teknologi. Pemikir, 2(2), 189-207.

Razif Ismail. (2005, October). Desktop publishing in information marketing. PC Magazine, pp. 21-23.

Man, E. V. D. (2000). Computer viruses. New Jersey: Prentice Hall.

Sakiam, S. (2009, April 1-15). Living up to its name. Times, pp. 21-23.

Souti. (2009, January 22). Side effects of Nimesulide. Retrieved May 29, 2013, from Cool Health Tips: http://www.coolhealthtips.com/

TOPIC 1: INTRODUCTION TO INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

TOPIC 1: DATA AND INFORMATION
This topic mainly explained the difference between data and information, and the problems associated withe the information management. before we started with the main topics, we recapped on the topics of the previous IT courses. we defined what a computer is, its operations  and the evolution of computers and its generations as well as the categories of computers were discussed into detail. this followed by the explanation of the difference between data and information where we said; DATA is a raw facts which may take form of numbers, characters, symbols, pictures and sounds and has no much importance in that form.
While INFORMATION is data that is organized and has meaning for decision making. this means information is a processed data which has some knowledge.

From the class discussion we know that information can be used to influence and persuade, capital for IT-based companies, and also used for decision-making.
The basic two elements of information was also discussed which is, Reach(people sharing information) and Richness(relates to bandwidth, customization and interactivity).
Next on the agenda was Computer System and the relation ship between input processing, output and architecture (information processing).
Then lastly we concluded with an in depth lecture on Information Management(IM) which generally refers to managing any kind of information. this arises because organizations face different problems related to their information which calls for implementation of different kind of Technology.

WEEK 10 COMPUTER AND INTERNET

WEEK 10;
This week we learn about The Internet; its history and the underlying technologies. The internet can be defined as- a hypertext linked network provided through the World Wide Web. We also discussed the history of the internet which started with the ARPANET. We continued to discuss timeline of the internet. we also know that no one owns the internet and has no formal management organization.
It can be used to send e-mail messages, participate in discussion groups and surfing the web. we also discussed the traditional and the new application of the internet.
the illustration of the internet network and the internet growth trend was done in class.
We also looked at the underlying technologies: the 7 Layers of the OSI Model, and also discussed hyperyext and Early HTML(Hypertext Markup Laguage).
The World Wide Web was also discussed, where we know it was created by Tim Berners Lee, a researcher for CERN, in 1989. 
We are also able to differentiate between World Wide Web, Web site and home page. We also talked about the early browsers, internet explorer and the current browsers including the latest developments.
we also discussed the internet connection where we discussed the following; LAN servers, Serial line internet protocol9SLIP) and Point -to-point protocol(PPP)  and also connection via on-line service provider (ISP). We went on to discuss how to access the internet? and creating a new dial-up connection as well as modifying an existing dial-up connection.

This led us to server structure of the Web and Addresses on the web: IP Addressing and also Domain name addressing. uniform resource allocators was looked at after that.
Lastly we winded up with the structure of a URL (Uniform Resource Locators).