The Foundation of ICT and Programming ICT is built on two main pillars: hardware and software. The essence lies in understanding programming, which involves creating instructions for computers to execute specific tasks. Charles Babbage is recognized as the father of modern computing, while Ada Lovelace pioneered computer programming concepts.
Understanding Computer Programs A computer program consists of a collection of executable instructions designed to perform particular tasks. These programs follow rules or signals that guide their execution by computers.
Binary Language: The Core Communication Medium Computers operate using binary language—composed solely of 0s and 1s—as it’s the only format they understand directly without translation into other languages.
'First Generation' Machine Language Basics 'Machine language,' also known as 'first-generation language,' emerged around 1945 during World War II's technological advancements; written entirely via binary codes (zeros/ones).
Evolution of Programming Languages Programming languages evolved from first-generation machine language to fifth-generation natural language. Machine and assembly languages are low-level, requiring detailed hardware knowledge. High-level third generation introduced programmer-friendly syntax like C and Java, while fourth focused on very high abstraction levels for easier human understanding. Fifth generation enables programming in natural human languages such as English or Bengali.
High-Level Language Advantages Third-generation high-level programming is user-friendly with simplified debugging processes compared to earlier generations. These programs can run across different computers without modification due to their independence from specific hardware structures. They allow programmers to focus more on logic rather than intricate system details.
Challenges of Third-Generation Languages Despite being advanced, third-gen requires translation software like compilers or interpreters which consume memory and time during execution preparation stages—posing challenges when resources are limited.
'Very High' Fourth Generation Features 'Fourth Gen' emphasizes simplicity by using SQL-like declarative approaches tailored towards database management systems (DBMS). It prioritizes minimal coding effort yet achieves complex tasks efficiently through pre-built functionalities integrated within frameworks/tools designed specifically around business needs/goals
'Natural Interaction': Fifth Generational Leap Forward! Fifth gen revolutionized computing via direct interaction between humans & machines utilizing conversational interfaces powered artificial intelligence(AI)-driven algorithms enabling seamless communication akin everyday speech patterns bridging gap traditional technical barriers previously existed prior iterations