Computer Essentials - ECDL Course

Information and Communications Technology (ICT) includes all technologies (hardware, software & networking) used to process and communicate information. 

The following are typical uses of ICT:

Internet Services including e-commerce, e-banking and e-government.

• E-commerce - Computer networks are gradually replacing our shopping habits. Nowadays more and more people are buying and selling goods/services through Internet. This online trading is often referred to as electronic commerce or e-commerce. Online buyers use credit cards to purchase goods/services.
• E-banking – Nowadays many banks enable their customers to perform electronic banking transactions through Internet. Users do not need to go to the bank to transfer funds, pay bills, view and check their bank accounts etc.
• E-government – Nowadays many government departments offer  services to the community through the use of ICTs. Locally the government portal that gives access to all information and services provided by government departments is available at www.gov.mt. Everyday many people seek information about services offered by government departments. They also make Internet payments for various services such as examinations fees, car licences, income tax payments etc.

Mobile Technology – In recent years there has been a gradual increase in the use of laptops, netbooks, tablets and smartphones. These devices, in particular the tablets and smartphones are easy to carry around. All devices are able to
connect to Internet without any wires. We say that these devices can connect to wireless networks. Nowadays many households and public places have wireless Internet connections. Also, in recent years many people have smartphones that can connect to Internet provided by mobile telecommunication companies.

Office productivity applications – Typically home and office computers have the following programs:

• Word processing programs (e.g. MS Word, Writer) – used to prepare text-based documents  Word processing programs (e.g. MS Word, Writer) – used to prepare text-based documents such as letters, memos, reports etc. 
• Spreadsheet programs (e.g. MS Excel, Calc) – used to analyse and summarise numerical data. Spreadsheets are commonly used in accounting environments to prepare balance sheets and financial reports.
• Presentation graphics programs (e.g. MS PowerPoint, Impress) – used to organise text and numeric data in an appropriate format to be displayed to a group of people. Typically presentations are used in the preparation of on-screen displays.