1. The-Historical-Social-and-Economic-Context-of-Computing.pptx

The Historical, social and economic context of computing

1. Professional Practices Instructor: Dr. Saima Farhan

2. Professional Practices Data Privacy Protecting sensitive data is a paramount responsibility for professionals in computing. Intellectual Property Understanding and respecting intellectual property rights is essential for ethical and legal compliance. Professional Conduct Maintaining high ethical standards is crucial for building trust and credibility in the computing profession. Responsible Use of Technology Professionals in computing have a responsibility to use technology ethically and for the benefit of society. Professional practices refer to the established behaviors, standards, ethics, and procedures that individuals in a specific profession are expected to follow. These practices ensure that professionals act with integrity, competence, and accountability, maintaining the trust of clients, colleagues, and the broader community. Professional practices are typically governed by codes of conduct, industry regulations, and best practices that are developed and enforced by professional bodies or associations. They cover aspects such as quality of work, ethical decision-making, communication, confidentiality, and continuous professional development.

3. The Historical, Social, and Economic Context of Computing The history of computing is rich and intertwined with the development of modern society. Computing technology has evolved from simple mechanical calculators to powerful electronic computers, revolutionizing various aspects of our lives.

4. The Origins of Computing 1 Mechanical Calculators Early mechanical calculators, such as Blaise Pascal's adding machine and Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz's multiplying machine, laid the foundation for modern computing. These devices performed basic arithmetic operations mechanically. 2 The Analytical Engine Charles Babbage's Analytical Engine, designed in the mid-19th century, was a groundbreaking concept. It was a mechanical general-purpose computer capable of executing complex calculations and storing data. 3 Early Electronic Computers The development of electronic computers in the mid-20th century marked a significant shift. These machines used vacuum tubes and other electronic components to perform calculations much faster than mechanical devices.

5. The Impact of World War II 1 Codebreaking The war effort spurred the development of computing technology, particularly for codebreaking. Machines like the Colossus and the ENIAC were designed to decipher enemy messages, accelerating the Allies' victory. 2 Ballistic Calculations Computing was crucial for ballistic calculations, helping to improve the accuracy of artillery and bombs. The ENIAC, for example, was used to calculate trajectories and optimize weapon systems. 3 Scientific Research The war also fueled advancements in scientific research, leading to the development of computers for weather forecasting, nuclear research, and other applications. 4 Post-war Developments After the war, computing technology continued to evolve rapidly, driven by both military and civilian applications. Transistors replaced vacuum tubes, leading to smaller, more powerful computers.

6. The Rise of the Personal Computer Early Personal Computers The 1970s saw the emergence of early personal computers, such as the Altair 8800 and the Apple II. These machines were designed for home and hobbyist use, bringing computing power to a wider audience. IBM PC The IBM PC, introduced in 1981, became a dominant force in the personal computer market. Its open architecture allowed for compatibility and the development of a vast array of software and peripherals . Democratization of Computing The widespread adoption of personal computers revolutionized computing. It democratized access to information, communication, and entertainment, transforming how people worked, learned, and interacted.

7. The Social Implications of the Digital Revolution Privacy Concerns The digital revolution has raised significant privacy concerns. The vast amount of data collected online and the ability to track user behavior have led to debates about data ownership and control. Security Risks Cybersecurity is a major concern in the digital age. With increasing reliance on technology, the risks of cyberattacks, data breaches, and identity theft have become more pronounced. Ethical Considerations The development and use of artificial intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies raise ethical questions about bias, accountability, and the potential for unintended consequences. Digital Divide The digital divide refers to the unequal access to technology and digital literacy among different populations. This gap can exacerbate existing social inequalities and limit opportunities.

8. The Economic Impact of Computing The Dot-com Boom The dot-com boom of the late 1990s and early 2000s saw the rise of internet-based businesses and the explosive growth of e-commerce. The internet became a major platform for commerce and innovation. The Era of Big Data The growth of big data analytics has revolutionized businesses and research. The ability to collect, analyze, and interpret vast amounts of data has opened up new opportunities for insights, decision-making, and innovation. Automation and Job Displacement Automation powered by computing technology has led to job displacement in some sectors, raising concerns about the future of work and the need for workforce retraining and adaptation.

9. The Globalization of Computing International Collaboration Computing has fostered international collaboration and knowledge sharing. Research projects, software development, and online communities have connected people across borders, accelerating innovation and progress. Global Communication The internet has transformed communication, making it easier for people to connect and share information instantly, regardless of distance. This has had a profound impact on business, education, and social interactions. Economic Interdependence Global trade and investment have been revolutionized by e-commerce and digital finance. The internet has enabled businesses to operate across borders, fostering economic interdependence and globalization. Cybersecurity Challenges The interconnectedness of global networks has also created new cybersecurity challenges. The potential for cross-border cyberattacks and data breaches requires international cooperation and coordinated efforts.

10. The Future of Computing Artificial Intelligence AI is expected to play a growing role in various aspects of life, from healthcare and education to transportation and entertainment. Quantum Computing Quantum computers have the potential to solve problems that are intractable for classical computers, leading to breakthroughs in medicine, materials science, and other fields. The Internet of Things (IoT) The IoT is transforming how we interact with the world around us, connecting devices and appliances to the internet and enabling new forms of automation and control.