Understanding the Different Types of Computers
Week 3Understanding the Different Types of Computers
Not all computers look the same. Some are big and used in offices, others are small and fit in your pocket. But they all do the same thing — they help us work, learn, and connect with others.
Types of computers
1. Desktop Computers
- Description: Big computers that stay in one place, usually in offices or schools.
- Use: Good for typing, printing, and running big programs.
Example: Like the one we use in the Zena laser room — they are powerful and have big screens.
- They’re powerful but not easy to carry around.
2. Laptop Computers
- Description: Smaller computers you can fold and carry.
- Use: Great for people who work in different places.
Example: Our Zena teachers use laptops to prepare lessons even from home.
- Easy to move with, works with battery and power.
3. Tablets
- Description: Computers without keyboards — you touch the screen to use them.
- Use: Watching videos, taking pictures, reading, learning online.
Example: Some of you use tablets for your children’s online lessons and entertainment.
- Very easy to use and light to carry.
4. Smartphones
- Description: Small computers we carry in our pockets.
- Use: Making calls, sending money, WhatsApp, Facebook, and even doing business.
Example: When you check WhatsApp for customers’ orders, that’s using a smartphone as a computer.
- It’s the most common type of computer people use every day.
5. Servers (Optional)
- Description: Big computers that store and share information for many people.
Example: Like the big computers that keep our Gmail accounts or YouTube videos safe online.
- They help us all stay connected.
Discussion
- Which of these computers have you used before?
- Which one would help your business the most?
Summary
- There are different types of computers: desktop, laptop, tablet, smartphone, and server.
- They all help us work, learn, and communicate.
- Choose a computer that fits what you need — for example, a smartphone for communication, or a laptop for keeping business records.
Activity
Matching Game:
Show pictures of different computers.
Ask learners to point to or name each type and what it’s used for.
- https://www.educaplay.com/learning-resources/3267023-computer_parts_matching_game.html
- https://matchthememory.com/ComputerPartsMatchingGame
- 1) Identify the main types of computers.
- 2) Understand what each type of computer is used for.
- 3) Choose the right kind of computer for their own business or personal needs.
- 1) Pictures of different types of computers (desktop, laptop, tablet, smartphone, etc.)
- 2) Actual examples if available (a laptop, phone, tablet)
- 3) Flashcards with pictures or names
- 4) Whiteboard/flip chart