Chapter 7 - Recent Trends In Technology : Computer Sci NEB Class 12

1. Concept of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Robotics

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a type of technology that allows computers to do things that typically require human intelligence. This includes tasks like learning, reasoning, problem-solving, understanding natural language, and perceiving the environment. AI systems are designed to analyze data, recognize patterns, and make decisions based on that information. It is a branch of computer science that deals with designing and developing intelligent computer systems similar to human intelligence.

Characteristics of AI:

• Understanding natural languages
• Reasoning and problem solving
• Parallel processing
• Self-learning

Components of Artificial Intelligence:

1. Learning: AI systems can learn from data and experiences, getting better at tasks over time without being explicitly programmed.
2. Understanding: AI can understand and process human language, allowing it to communicate with people effectively.
3. Seeing: AI systems can interpret visual information, recognizing objects, faces, and other important details in images and videos.
4. Decision Making: AI can make decisions based on data and logic, choosing the best course of action to achieve its goals.
5. Interaction: AI systems can interact with the physical world, whether it's through robots performing tasks or virtual assistants responding to voice commands.
6. Search and Indexing: This intelligence is used to search solutions for particular problems like possibilities of moves on a chess-playing game.
7. Logic Generation: AI is intelligence with creating logic in different problems. Logic in terms of predicate basis or whatever, this system creates logic for solving any kind of related problems as per the AI related system and software.
8. Neural Network: Artificial intelligence technique that mimics the operation of the human brain that refers to nerves and neurons and comprises of densely interconnected computer processors working simultaneously that means parallel.
9. Expert System: AI is an expert system that can recognize some type of figures, images or audio sounds. Pattern in any sense or any type which directly or indirectly presence in the system.

Uses/Applications of AI:

• Virtual Assistants: Virtual assistants like Siri, Alexa, Cortana, and Google Assistant use AI to understand and respond to voice commands.
• Recommendation Systems: Websites like Amazon and Netflix use AI to recommend products and movies based on past purchases or viewing history.
• Self-Driving Cars: AI is used in self-driving cars (like Tesla) to analyze data from sensors and cameras to navigate roads and avoid obstacles.
• Medical Diagnosis: AI algorithms can analyze medical images like X-rays and MRIs to help doctors diagnose diseases like cancer more accurately and quickly.
• Language Translation: AI-powered tools like Google Translate use machine learning to convert text from one language to another.
• Fraud Detection: Banks and credit card companies use AI to detect fraudulent transactions by analyzing patterns in spending behavior.
• Gaming Industry: Used in games like chess, Call of Duty, PUBG, FIFA, etc., where the machine can think of a large number of possible strategies based on knowledge.
• Other Sectors: Space exploration, Farming, Cyber security, Education sector, and Banking sector.

Robotics

Robotics is a field of technology that involves designing, building, and programming robots. Robotics is a branch of science and technology with automated machines that can mimic human behaviour and often perform tasks in similar fashion. It is an integrated field of technology which includes mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and computer science. A robot is a reprogrammable, multifunctional, movable physical structure that consists of sensor system, mechanical motor, power supply and computer brain to control those elements.

Characteristics of Robots:

• Sensing (Light sensors, touch sensors, taste sensors, etc.)
• Movement
• Energy (Able to power itself)
• Intelligence

2. Concept of Cloud Computing

Cloud computing refers to the delivery of computing services—including storage, processing power, networking, and software—over the internet, also known as "the cloud." Instead of relying on local servers or personal devices to handle data and run applications, cloud computing allows users to access resources and services remotely. It is a kind of outsourcing of resources that offers faster innovation and flexibility. It helps lowering the cost and increases the efficiency of business.

Types of Cloud Computing:

1. Public Cloud: A public cloud uses an internet connection to access computing resources hosted on data centers managed by a third-party cloud service provider.
2. Private Cloud: It is used for organizations about sharing resources on a public cloud. It is implemented on servers owned and maintained by the organization and accessed over the internet or through a private internal network.
3. Hybrid Cloud: A combination of several cloud environments is called hybrid cloud. It includes a combination of public cloud and private cloud. It allows for additional levels of flexibility.

Types of Cloud Services (Service Models):

1. Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS): It contains the basic building blocks for cloud information technology. It provides access to networking features, computers hardware and data storage space. It gives us the highest level of flexibility and management control over your IT resources.
2. Platform as a Service (PaaS): It removes the need to manage underlying infrastructure and allows you to focus on the development and management of your applications. It is a more powerful tool for resource procurement, capacity planning, software maintenance and more.
3. Software as a Service (SaaS): It provides the complete product that is run and managed by the service provider. Users can access software hosted on the cloud without installing it on the user's own computer. Examples: Gmail, Google Docs.

Advantages of Cloud Computing:

• Scalability: Easily scale resources up or down based on demand.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Pay for only the resources used, no upfront investment; reduces expenses of companies.
• Accessibility: Access data and applications from anywhere with an internet connection.
• Reliability: High availability and built-in disaster recovery measures.
• Automatic Updates: Cloud providers handle maintenance tasks, ensuring security and performance.

Disadvantages of Cloud Computing:

• Internet Dependency: Relies on a stable internet connection.
• Security Risks: Data may be vulnerable to cyber-attacks or data breaches.
• Limited Control: Users have less control over infrastructure and software.
• Downtime: Service outages can disrupt operations.
• Vendor Lock-In: Switching providers can be difficult and costly.

3. Concept of Big Data

Big data refers to large volumes of data that are too vast and complex for traditional data processing methods to handle effectively. It is a collection of huge volume of data which is growing exponentially with time such as social media, IoT devices, AI, mobile devices, networking files, etc.

Types of Big Data:

• Structured Data: Data that can be stored, accessed and processed in the fixed format. They are easy to store, analyze and sort.
• Semi-structured Data: This data contains both forms of data. In this, sometimes data may be structured but the form of data may be unstructured and vice versa.
• Unstructured Data: Data with unknown form or mixed structure. It possesses multiple challenges to process to get the actual value out of it. A heterogeneous data source i.e. combination of text files, images, videos, etc.

Characteristics of Big Data (The 6 Vs):

1. Volume: Refers to the sheer amount of data, typically in exabytes (EB) or petabytes (PB).
2. Velocity: Refers to the speed at which data is generated and processed in real-time.
3. Variety: Refers to the different types and sources of data (structured, unstructured, semi-structured).
4. Veracity: Refers to the reliability or trustworthiness of the data; uncertainty about the validity and accuracy.
5. Value: Refers to the worth of business value of the collected data.
6. Variability: Refers to the inconsistency of the big data and how it can be used and formatted.

Advantages of Big Data:

• Better decision-making
• Increased productivity
• Reduce costs / Cost savings
• Improved customer service
• Fraud detection
• Innovation boost

Disadvantages of Big Data:

• Need for talent/specialized skills
• Cybersecurity risks
• Rapid change in technology
• Hardware needs and high costs
• Difficulty integrating legacy systems

4. Concept of Virtual Reality (VR)

Virtual Reality (VR) is a technology that allows users to experience and interact with a simulated environment as if they were physically present within it. It creates a 3D interactive environment where users can interact with simulated objects. It uses specialized headsets and controllers to engage the senses of sight, sound, and sometimes touch.

Types of Virtual Reality:

• Non-immersive virtual reality
• Semi-immersive virtual reality
• Fully immersive virtual reality

Application areas of Virtual Reality:

• Gaming: Immerse players in virtual worlds and interact with environments realistically.
• Entertainment: Used in movies, concerts, and theme parks for immersive experiences.
• Education: Explore historical landmarks, dissect virtual organisms, or visit outer space.
• Healthcare: Used for medical training, patient rehabilitation, therapy, and simulating surgeries.
• Architecture and Design: Create immersive virtual models of buildings and products to visualize before building.
• Tourism and Travel: Offers virtual tours of destinations, hotels, and attractions.

Advantages of Virtual Reality:

• Makes things feel real even though they're not.
• Helps us learn better by making learning fun and interactive.
• Explore dangerous places safely (e.g., deep oceans or outer space).
• Self-practice and simulation.

Disadvantages of Virtual Reality:

• Very expensive equipment.
• Sense of isolation from the real world.
• Potential for addiction or obsession.
• Risk for accidents while wearing headsets.
• Can be unreal or lead to blurred lines with reality.

5. Concept of e-com, e-medicine, e-gov.

E-Commerce

E-commerce, short for electronic commerce, refers to buying and selling goods or services over the internet. It is also known as internet commerce. It allows businesses to showcase products online, process payments securely, and manage orders efficiently.

Classification/Types of E-commerce:

• Business-to-Consumer (B2C): Transactions between businesses and individual consumers (e.g., Amazon, eBay).
• Business-to-Business (B2B): Transactions occur between businesses (e.g., wholesale marketplaces).
• Consumer-to-Consumer (C2C): Transactions between individual consumers (e.g., Craigslist, eBay, Hamrobazar).
• Consumer-to-Business (C2B): Consumers provide products or services to businesses.

Advantages of E-commerce:

• Convenience (shop anytime, anywhere 24/7).
• Wider selection of products and global reach.
• Cost savings (discounts and lower operational costs).
• No physical company set-up required.

Disadvantages of E-commerce:

• Can't touch or feel products before buying.
• Risk of fraud, hacking, and data loss.
• Shipping costs and wait times for delivery.
• No guarantee of product quality.

E-Medicine

E-medicine, or electronic medicine, is a way for doctors and patients to connect and communicate using the internet and ICT (Information and Communication Technology). It provides medical services whenever or wherever required. Patients can talk to a doctor online through video calls or messaging without leaving home.

Objectives of E-medicine:

• To save time wasted by doctors and patients while travelling.
• To provide cost-effective medical service to the public.
• To enhance peoples equality (unbiasness) in the availability of various medical services.

Disadvantages of E-medicine:

• Not every citizen has internet access.
• Non-applicable in emergency cases.
• Lack of trust issues.
• Lack of technical knowledge among some citizens.

E-Governance

E-governance, or electronic governance, is a way for governments to use technology to make services and information more accessible to people. It is the application of electronic devices to improve interaction between government and citizens. Its main motto is "Putting people online, not in line."

Types of E-governance:

• Government to Citizen (G2C): Basic services like license renewal, ordering certificates.
• Government to Business (G2B): Online interaction like application forms, registering business, paying taxes.
• Government to Government (G2G): Interaction between government organizations, departments, and authorities.
• Government to Employee (G2E): Services provided to employees like trainings, paying taxes, etc.

Advantages of E-governance:

• Corruption will be somehow minimized.
• Citizens get direct access to governmental authorities.
• Transparency in governmental activities.
• Increases public participation.

Disadvantages of E-governance:

• Privacy risks and security concerns.
• Lack of infrastructure including connectivity in rural areas.
• Issues of capacity and awareness.

E-Learning

E-learning, or electronic learning, is a way of learning using computers and the internet. It is a platform that uses ICT to provide a learning-based environment which can be anytime, anywhere accessible. Examples: Unacademy, BYJU'S, edX, w3schools, etc.

Advantages of E-learning:

• Effective at producing good outcomes.
• Everywhere learning (not limited by place or time).
• Self-paced and budget friendly.
• Supports individual learning styles and needs.

Disadvantages of E-learning:

• Difficult to update from rural areas.
• Compromised communication skills and social isolation.
• Technical difficulties and limited access to resources.
• Focuses more on theory.

6. Concept of Mobile Computing

Mobile computing is a generic term describing one's ability to use technology while moving as opposed to portable computers. It means using small, portable devices like smartphones or tablets to do tasks that usually need a computer. It involves mobile communication, mobile hardware and mobile software.

Features of Mobile Computing Devices:

• Portability: Small and lightweight, easy to carry in pockets or bags.
• Wireless Connectivity: Built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and cellular connectivity.
• Touchscreen Interface: Intuitive navigation through taps and gestures.
• Social Interactivity: Enables quick communication and social networking.
• App Ecosystem: Supports a wide range of applications (iOS, Android).

Disadvantages of Mobile Computing:

• Insufficient bandwidth / Slower performance.
• Small screens make reading or watching videos harder.
• Battery life limitations.
• Security risks (public Wi-Fi, hackers).
• Human health hazards.

7. Concept of Internet of Things (IoT)

The Internet of Things (IoT) is about connecting everyday objects to the internet, like your thermostat, fridge, or even your car. It consists of several computing devices that can be connected to the internet. These devices contain sensors that read data from external environment and process accordingly. IoT devices are connected with cloud computing for faster and smoother access.

Advantages of IoT:

• Convenience: Makes life easier by doing tasks automatically (adjusting temperature, lights).
• Efficiency: Helps save resources and boosts productivity.
• Remote Control: Monitor and control devices from anywhere.
• Time saving: Quick response and automated workflows.

Disadvantages of IoT:

• Privacy Worries: Collection of personal information.
• Security Risks: Vulnerable to hackers and data robbery.
• Unreliability: Network/Technical issues or connection loss.
• Complexity: Managing many devices can be hard.
• Health hazards: Potential impact of constant connectivity.