Revision on the Internet – JSS3 Computer Studies Lesson Note (First Term)

The Internet is a global system of interconnected computer networks that use the standard Internet protocol suite to serve billions of users worldwide.

Behavioural objectives

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

1. explain the meaning of the Internet;
2. name common Internet terms such as browser, search engine, website and e-mail;
3. state five advantages of the Internet;
4. state four disadvantages of the Internet;
5. list simple rules for using the Internet safely.

What is the Internet?

The Internet is a global system of interconnected computer networks that use the standard Internet protocol suite to serve billions of users worldwide.

• Origin of the word: Internet comes from two words, interconnection and network.
• Main uses: it lets people communicate, find information, enjoy entertainment, use online services and trade.
• Online: a device is online when it is connected to the Internet.

What do you need to connect to the Internet?

You need a device, a connection and software to use the Internet.

• Device: a computer, tablet or smartphone.
• Connection: mobile data, Wi-Fi or a router supplied by an Internet service provider (ISP).
• Browser: software used to view web pages, such as Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox or Microsoft Edge.

What are the common Internet terms?

These are the key terms every JSS3 student should know.

What are the advantages of the Internet?

There are five main advantages of the Internet: communication, information, entertainment, services and e-commerce.

• Communication: we can communicate within a second with a person in another part of the world, for example by e-mail.
• Making friends: people make friends across the globe and share thoughts.
• Information: information is the biggest advantage of the Internet, with a huge amount available on every subject.
• Finding information: users find it with search engines such as Google and Yahoo.
• Entertainment: we can download games, visit chat rooms and find music, hobbies and news.
• Chat rooms: they are popular because users can meet new and interesting people.
• Services: many services are now on the Internet, such as online banking, job seeking and buying tickets.
• E-commerce: buying, selling and other business information can be transferred across the globe through the Internet.

What are the disadvantages of the Internet?

There are four main disadvantages of the Internet: computer viruses, pornography, wasted time and cybercrime.

• Computer viruses: harmful programs can enter a computer through downloads and e-mail attachments and damage files.
• Pornography: indecent material is easy to find online and is harmful to children and young people.
• Wasted time: games, chatting and aimless browsing take time away from study, work and sleep.
• Cybercrime: the Internet has a high rate of crime, such as online fraud and hacking into other people’s accounts.

How can we use the Internet safely?

Safe use of the Internet means protecting yourself, your device and your time.

1. Install anti-virus software and keep it up to date.
2. Do not open e-mail attachments or download files from strangers.
3. Never share your password or personal details with strangers.
4. Avoid websites with indecent content.
5. Set a time limit for games and chatting so that your studies do not suffer.
6. Tell a parent or teacher if you meet anything online that frightens or upsets you.

Evaluation

1. What is the Internet?
2. Which two words does the word Internet come from?
3. State five advantages of the Internet.
4. State four disadvantages of the Internet.
5. What is a search engine? Give two examples.

Assignment

Explain any two advantages and any two disadvantages of the Internet.