Know and understand impact of emerging technologies on everyday life including Artificial Intelligence (AI), extended reality (virtual and augmented)

1. Types and Components of Computer Systems

1.1. Types of Computer Systems

Computer systems are classified according to size, processing power, purpose and typical users. The table below summarises the main categories used in the IGCSE ICT syllabus.

1.2. Core Components of a Computer System

All computer systems, regardless of type, contain a set of fundamental hardware and software components that work together to process data.

• Central Processing Unit (CPU) – the “brain” that executes instructions.
• Memory

  • Random Access Memory (RAM) – temporary storage for active data.
  • Read‑Only Memory (ROM) – permanent firmware.

• Storage – long‑term data retention (HDD, SSD, flash memory).
• Input Devices – keyboards, mouse, touchscreens, microphones, scanners.
• Output Devices – monitors, printers, speakers, projectors.
• Motherboard – main circuit board that connects all components.
• Power Supply Unit (PSU) – converts mains electricity to usable voltages.
• Software

  • Operating System (OS) – manages hardware resources.
  • Application Software – performs specific tasks for the user.

1.3. Emerging Technologies and Their Everyday Impact

Rapid advances in technology are reshaping how we live, work and learn. Two key emerging areas are Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Extended Reality (XR), which includes \cdot irtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR).

1.3.1. Artificial Intelligence (AI)

AI refers to systems that can perform tasks that normally require human intelligence, such as learning, reasoning, problem‑solving and perception.

• Everyday Applications

  • Voice assistants (e.g., Siri, Google Assistant)
  • Personalised recommendations on streaming services
  • Smart home automation (lighting, thermostats)
  • Fraud detection in banking
  • Language translation tools

• Impact on Society

  • Increased efficiency and productivity
  • New job roles (AI ethics, data science) and displacement of routine tasks
  • Ethical considerations: bias, privacy, decision‑making transparency

1.3.2. Extended Reality (XR)

XR is an umbrella term covering immersive technologies that blend the physical and digital worlds.

• Virtual Reality (VR) – fully simulated environments experienced through head‑mounted displays.
• Augmented Reality (AR) – overlays digital information onto the real world via smartphones, tablets or AR glasses.

Everyday Uses of XR

• Gaming and entertainment (immersive games, virtual concerts)
• Education (virtual labs, AR anatomy overlays)
• Retail (virtual try‑on of clothing, AR product visualisation)
• Healthcare (VR pain management, AR surgery assistance)
• Architecture and design (virtual walkthroughs of buildings)

Impact on Daily Life

• Enhanced learning experiences through interactive visualisation.
• Greater convenience in shopping and remote collaboration.
• Potential health concerns (motion sickness, eye strain) and the need for digital wellbeing strategies.
• Privacy issues related to data captured by AR devices.

1.4. Summary Checklist

1. Identify at least four different types of computer systems and their typical users.
2. List the core hardware components found in any computer system.
3. Explain how AI is integrated into everyday devices and discuss one ethical issue.
4. Distinguish between \cdot irtual Reality and Augmented Reality and give one real‑world example of each.