Back to: Jss1 Computer Science – ICT (BST)

Means of Transmitting Information 

Means of transmitting information refers to the methods or channels through which information can be conveyed from one place to another. These methods can include verbal communication, written communication, electronic communication (such as email or text messages), video and audio communication, and various forms of media (such as books, newspapers, and television). Other means of transmitting information may include nonverbal cues and body language, visual aids and graphics, and various forms of data transmission (such as over the internet or through satellite technology). The choice of means of transmitting information depends on factors such as the purpose of the communication, the audience, and the type of information being conveyed.

The means of transmitting information  can be divided into two groups:

(1)           Electronic

(2)           Non-electronic

Electronic Means of Transmitting Information

Electronic methods of transmitting information involve the use of devices that utilise components such as vacuum tubes, integrated circuits (IC), or transistors in their design. Examples of these electronic means of communication include the telephone, email, radio, television, and satellite.

Electronic communication devices are designed to transmit information using electrical signals that are amplified and modulated to convey information. These devices have revolutionised the way we connect and communicate with each other, allowing us to share information and ideas in real-time, regardless of geographical distances.

The telephone, for example, has enabled people to communicate with each other from different parts of the world, breaking down barriers of distance and time. An email has made it possible to send messages and files instantly, without the need for physical mail delivery. Radio and television have allowed us to receive news and entertainment from different parts of the world, while satellite communication has made it possible to transmit data and images over vast distances.

The development of electronic communication has paved the way for many technological advancements in the modern world. It has revolutionised the way we work, play, and communicate, making it possible for us to connect with people and information at any time, from anywhere. However, it is important to recognise the potential downsides of electronic communication, such as the risks associated with data security and privacy. It is important to use these technologies responsibly and to be aware of their impact on our lives and society as a whole

Non-Electronic Means of Transmitting Information

Non-electronic methods of transmitting information do not rely on the use of electricity to convey messages. Some examples of non-electronic means of communication include word of mouth, handwritten notes, traditional postal services, magazines, and newspapers.

These methods have been in use for centuries and have been integral to human communication and the dissemination of knowledge. Before the advent of electronic communication, people relied on non-electronic methods to share information and ideas.

Word of mouth, for example, has been used since ancient times as a means of sharing information within communities. Handwritten notes, on the other hand, were used to convey messages between individuals who were not in the same location. The traditional postal service allowed people to send letters and parcels across great distances, while magazines and newspapers provided a means of sharing news and information with a wider audience.

While electronic communication has become the dominant means of transmitting information in the modern world, non-electronic methods continue to play a vital role in many aspects of our lives. They offer a more personal touch, with handwritten messages and word-of-mouth communication providing a more human connection between individuals. In addition, traditional postal services remain important for sending physical items, such as legal documents or personal items, which cannot be sent electronically

Electronic	Non-Electronic
Telephone	Prints(Newspapers, Magazines, Bill Boards, etc)
Telex	Writing
Electronic Mail	Telegram
GSM	Face-to-Face
Fax	Ancient forms of communication(Town crier, Drum beating,whistling, signs etc)
Social Media(Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, etc)
Television

Modes of receiving information

Information can be acquired through various means, either individually or in combination with one another. These methods include audio, visual, and audio-visual.

Audio Modes of receiving information

Audio involves receiving information through sound signals and hearing, without the need to see any picture or object. It can be delivered through various materials and equipment, such as audio tapes, radios, CDs, cassette players, telephones, and other similar devices.

Visual Modes of receiving information

Visual entails seeing objects or pictures without the accompaniment of sound. It involves receiving information in pictorial or graphical forms, which may include models, objects, and other visual aids.

Audio-Visual Modes of receiving information

Audio-visual is a combination of both hearing and seeing, using the integration of audio and visual forms. Examples of this method of information reception are television, computer screens, VCD, DVD, and other multimedia devices.

Each of these methods provides unique advantages and disadvantages in terms of the reception and comprehension of information. For instance, audio may be useful for people who prefer listening to information, while visual may be helpful for those who process information better through images or objects. Audio-visual, on the other hand, provides the benefits of both methods, making it a popular and effective means of conveying information.

WEEK 9

Students should be able to practice ancient and modern methods of transmitting information