Before we attempt to define a Computer, there are a number of associated terminologies that the learner needs to know beforehand. These are: Data, Information, and Programs.
Data is the name given to facts. For example, in a school, the number of students in a class, the number of teachers, names of students, the name of customers in a business.
Information is result from processed data. For example adding some numerical values like the numbers 14 and 17 into the computer will give you the result of 31. The later is information you required. Information can be defined as data computed into a more useful form than raw form.
Program is a series of instructions written in the language of the computer for them to obey and perform specific tasks as outlined by the instructions.
A Computer can therefore be defined as “an electronic machine that takes in data (facts) in the raw form, processes the data to give out in another form called information”.
When a computer is fed with data, it passes through four basic steps before the data can be displaced;
- Input Process – the user will type the data from say the keyboard (to be introduced later in the chapter) and the computer will accept the dame and store within
- Storage Process – the data that is fed into the computer at the same time is held, even during the time of processing and after processing; it can further be stored for further These data are held in computer memory.
- Processing – the computer will manipulate the data held within it to a more useful form – results (information).
- Output Process – the user is given the information he
The four basic processes can be summarized in the following way by looking at the same terms of information processing cycle.
Organizing data for processing – to get quality results (information) you must have quality data to start with. Unreliable original data generates unreliable results. If you give a computer garbage, you get garbage in return. Its called GIGO – Garbage In – Garbage Out.
Information Processing Cycle – Information Processing Cycle includes a series of steps for transforming data into meaningful information for people.
A cycle is defined as a sequence of activities performed in an order that it produces expected and meaningful results.
A Processing Cycle is repeated, it means, if the same resources are used in the same way, the same outcome will result. The standard cycle followed to process data and deliver information comprises of 4 major functions:
- Input Function – the input function gathers and collects stored data items and enter them into the system for Input can come from many sources, for example from files kept in the office, banking institutions and accounts.
- Storage Function – this function allows the user to store data being processed in the memory of the computer as well as to store the information for future
- Processing Function – the desired operation by the user is carried out on the data keyed in and stored in the memory so as to turn it into meaningful
- Output Function – the data stored is processed and then output into files, printed as hard copies or displayed on the screen for the user.
Note: For any information processing system to run smoothly on a day-to- day basis, the processing activities must be organized. A system has little work if it provides helpful information on one day and useless information the next day. Output should be useful the first time and every time for the system.