Peopleware: The Human Element of Computing Computer Studies JSS 2 First Term Lesson Notes Week 5

Lesson Plan for Computer Studies

Subject: Computer Studies
Class: JSS 2
Term: First Term
Week: 5
Age: 12 years
Topic: Peopleware
Sub-topic: Computer Professionals and Computer Users
Duration: 40 minutes

Behavioral Objectives:

By the end of the lesson, students should be able to:

1. Define a computer professional.
2. Identify the different types of computer professionals.
3. Provide examples of computer users and describe their roles.

Keywords:

• Peopleware
• Computer Professionals
• Software Developer
• Network Administrator
• Computer Users

Set Induction:

Ask students if they know anyone who works with computers professionally (e.g., in an office, tech company, or school). Relate their answers to the idea of computer professionals and introduce the term “Peopleware.”

Entry Behavior:

Students have basic knowledge of hardware and software from previous lessons.

Learning Resources and Materials:

• Chart listing various computer professions and their roles
• Projector displaying images of computer professionals (e.g., software developers, IT support, etc.)
• Printed materials with descriptions of different types of computer users

Building Background/Connection to Prior Knowledge:

Explain that while computers and software are important, the people who use and manage them are equally crucial. Introduce the concept of “Peopleware” as the human element in computing.

Embedded Core Skills:

• Communication
• Critical thinking
• Digital literacy

Learning Materials:

• “Computer Studies for Junior Secondary Schools” by P. Olanrewaju
• Lagos State Scheme of Work

Instructional Materials:

• Visual aids showing examples of computer professionals and users
• Real-life scenarios involving different types of computer professionals

Content:

1. Definition of Peopleware: Peopleware refers to the human aspect of computing, including the people who design, operate, and use computers. It involves the professionals who work with computer systems and the everyday users of these systems.
2. Types of Computer Professionals: Computer professionals are individuals who specialize in various areas of computing and technology. Some of the main types of computer professionals include:
   • Software Developers: These professionals design, develop, and maintain software applications.
   • Network Administrators: They manage and maintain computer networks, ensuring they run smoothly.
   • Database Administrators: These professionals manage databases and ensure data is stored securely and efficiently.
   • System Analysts: They analyze computer systems to ensure they meet the needs of an organization.
   • IT Support Technicians: They provide technical support and troubleshooting for computer systems.
3. Examples of Computer Users: Computer users are people who use computer systems for various tasks. They can be categorized into:
   • End Users: These are individuals who use computers for daily tasks, such as typing documents, browsing the internet, or sending emails. Examples include students, teachers, office workers, and homemakers.
   • Power Users: These are experienced users who use computers for more complex tasks like video editing, software development, or network management. Examples include graphic designers, software engineers, and video editors.
4. Roles of Computer Professionals and Users:
   • Computer Professionals: Responsible for designing, developing, maintaining, and supporting computer systems.
   • Computer Users: Utilize computer systems to complete tasks like document creation, data analysis, and online communication.

Fill-in-the-Blank Questions (15):

1. __________ refers to the human aspect of computing. (a) Hardware (b) Peopleware (c) Software (d) Internet
2. A __________ is responsible for designing and developing software applications. (a) Network Administrator (b) Software Developer (c) Database Administrator (d) IT Support
3. The person who manages and maintains a computer network is called a __________. (a) System Analyst (b) Power User (c) Network Administrator (d) End User
4. A database administrator is responsible for managing __________. (a) Networks (b) Software (c) Hardware (d) Data
5. __________ provide technical support and troubleshoot issues with computer systems. (a) IT Support Technicians (b) Software Developers (c) Network Administrators (d) Power Users
6. __________ use computers for simple tasks like typing documents or sending emails. (a) System Analysts (b) End Users (c) Power Users (d) Network Administrators
7. __________ are advanced users who work on more complex tasks like video editing and software development. (a) End Users (b) Power Users (c) Database Administrators (d) System Analysts
8. __________ analyzes computer systems to ensure they meet the needs of an organization. (a) Software Developer (b) Network Administrator (c) System Analyst (d) IT Support
9. The __________ element of computing is as important as hardware and software. (a) Peopleware (b) Powerware (c) Systemware (d) Adminware
10. Teachers, students, and office workers are examples of __________. (a) Software Developers (b) End Users (c) Power Users (d) System Analysts
11. A __________ is an experienced user who handles advanced computing tasks. (a) Network Administrator (b) Power User (c) End User (d) Database Administrator
12. The person responsible for storing and managing an organization’s data is the __________. (a) Software Developer (b) Network Administrator (c) Database Administrator (d) System Analyst
13. IT support technicians help to __________ computer systems. (a) analyze (b) troubleshoot (c) create (d) delete
14. A __________ develops programs that help users perform tasks. (a) Software Developer (b) Network Administrator (c) Power User (d) Database Administrator
15. People who use computers for simple tasks like creating documents are known as __________. (a) Power Users (b) End Users (c) Network Administrators (d) Database Administrators

FAQs (15):

1. What is Peopleware?
   Peopleware refers to the human aspect of computing, including professionals and users.
2. Who are computer professionals?
   Computer professionals are individuals who specialize in various areas of technology, like software development or network management.
3. What are examples of computer professionals?
   Examples include software developers, network administrators, and IT support technicians.
4. Who are software developers?
   Software developers are professionals who design and create software applications.
5. What does a network administrator do?
   A network administrator manages and maintains computer networks.
6. Who are computer users?
   Computer users are people who use computers for tasks such as typing, browsing the internet, or creating documents.
7. What is an end user?
   An end user is someone who uses a computer for simple tasks like typing documents or sending emails.
8. Who are power users?
   Power users are experienced individuals who use computers for advanced tasks like software development or video editing.
9. What does a database administrator do?
   A database administrator manages data storage and ensures its security.
10. Who provides technical support for computer systems?
    IT support technicians provide technical support and troubleshoot computer issues.
11. What is the role of a system analyst?
    A system analyst analyzes computer systems to ensure they meet organizational needs.
12. Can a student be considered a computer user?
    Yes, students are end users of computers for tasks like researching and typing assignments.
13. Do computer professionals only work in offices?
    No, computer professionals can work in a variety of settings, including schools, tech companies, and healthcare facilities.
14. Why is Peopleware important?
    Peopleware is important because it involves the human aspect of designing, operating, and using computers.
15. What is the difference between an end user and a power user?
    End users perform simple tasks on computers, while power users handle more advanced tasks.

Presentation Steps:

1. Revising the Previous Topic: Briefly review the last lesson on hardware and software.
2. Introducing the New Topic: Explain that Peopleware refers to the people who operate and manage computer systems.
3. Allowing Pupils to Contribute: Ask students if they know any computer professionals and discuss their roles.

Teacher’s Activities:

• Define Peopleware and explain its role in computing.
• Differentiate between computer professionals and computer users.
• Discuss the types of computer professionals and provide real-life examples.
• Guide students through identifying types of computer users.

Learners’ Activities:

• Participate in class discussions about the types of computer professionals.
• Identify examples of computer users they know or interact with.
• Answer questions on the differences between end users and power users.

Assessment:

• Monitor students’ understanding through their responses during class discussions.
• Use fill-in-the-blank questions to assess comprehension.

Evaluation Questions (10):

1. What is Peopleware?
2. Define a computer professional.
3. Who is an end user?
4. Give two examples of computer professionals.
5. What is the role of a power user?
6. What does a system analyst do?
7. Name a professional who manages computer networks.
8. Who is responsible for developing software?
9. What kind of tasks do end users perform?
10. Why is Peopleware important?

Conclusion:

Summarize the key points by reviewing the definitions of Peopleware, the types of computer professionals, and the categories of computer users. Emphasize the role of people in operating and managing computer systems.