Computer Dictionary: F

It’s time to learn some more technical words and phrases. Have you been keeping up on the Computer dictionary here at the Computing Blog? We are up to F this time, and there are some interesting words and phrases to cover. False Acceptance This is a security term that is also known as a type II error. Basically, it takes an unauthorized person and identifies them as an authorized person on the computer network for example. Security people look for the False Acceptance Rate, or FAR, in a system to judge how safe it is and where improvements must be … Continue reading

Thoughts to Ponder Before Teaching Your Child Computer Skills

There has been some controversy about children and the use of computers. While some believe that it is important to teach young children how to use a computer, others feel that computer skills should not be taught until children are older. There are some things that you should consider before teaching your child how to use a computer. Not all children are ready for sit down activities that require longer attention spans. Before you get started, think about some of the following: How ready is your child to use a computer? Is your child interested when you are using the … Continue reading

How Early Should We Teach Computer Skills?

Today’s world is full of technology. Many stores absolutely cannot function if the power is off. Customers at Wal-Mart cannot even open the door without electricity. The future is likely full of more computers and technology to come. At school, I have a computer center. I rarely have to instruct students on how to operate the computer. They usually figure out the games well before I do. Children are learning about technology at very early ages. The Wall Street Journal predicts that almost all preschools are equipped with computers for student use. Ten years ago the number was only about … Continue reading

Computer Dictionary: E

With all of the iPhone news out there lately, we have taken a little break with our dictionary terms, but don’t worry, we will get through the entire alphabet. At the end of all of our letters, we will be regular “techies.” Here we go with the latest in the computer dictionary series, the letter “E.” E&M: E&M, stands for “ear and mouth.” It is a term that is used in voice over internet protocol networks, when you make telephone calls using the internet rather than a traditional land-based or mobile phone. E&M refers to a handset, like the traditional … Continue reading

Computer Dictionary: D

Ready for the “D” list? Here are a bunch of words and phrases related to computers and technology. Did you know that there are some cases in the world of computers where it is okay to say “Damn?” DAB: DAB or Digital Audio Broadcasting is also known as digital radio or high-definition radio. With DAB, a regular analog radio signal is converted to a digital signal and translated over a regular FM or AM frequency range. Users must have a receiver equipped to handle the DAB. First deployed in the United Kingdom in 1995, DAB is very popular through Europe. … Continue reading

Computer Dictionary: C

Want to get a handle on all of those technical computing terms? Or maybe you are just curious and want to know how to speak like the pros. We’ll get through the alphabet together and discover some of the more commonly used words, phrases and definitions. Cache: This word is pronounced like the money, “cash.” It refers to a place to store data on a temporary basis. A good example of cache is when you visit a web page. All of the graphics and some other files are generally saved in a cache subdirectory, under the directory for your browser. … Continue reading

Computer Dictionary: B

When someone asks if you have a bluetooth, do you rush to a mirror and get ready to schedule that dentist appointment? Of course you don’t, because you are tech savvy. You are up on all of the current technical terms. You read the Computer Dictionary here at Families.com. Here, in our latest installment, are some commonly used terms that start with the letter, “B.” Back door: When someone talks about a back door, they are talking about gaining access to a computer program in a way that bypasses the regular security mechanisms. Programmers sometimes create back doors so they … Continue reading

Computer Dictionary: A

Confused by all of those computer terms? Just check out this dictionary for explanations. You’ll be talking like a techie in no time. Technical terms seem to change by the week. Even someone who is used to working with computers may not be able to keep up with all of the terminology that takes place in the offices of the information services department or even at the local Starbucks. In the spirit of understanding, or maybe curiosity, I’ll be posting some of the more common computing terms and their definitions. Learn the terms, and while you may not be the … Continue reading

Coupon Dictionary (Part 2)

Insert Coupons ~ Insert coupons are manufacturer coupons found in the Sunday paper. They are usually one of the three main booklets of coupons, Smart Source, Valassis and Proctor & Gamble. Internet Printed Coupon (IP) ~ A manufacturer coupon in which you can print from your computer. Newbie ~ Someone who is new to the world of coupons and trying to learn the ropes. Non Insert Coupons ~ Non Insert Coupons are any coupon not found in the Sunday paper. Example: Peelies, Blinkies and Tearpads. Peelies ~ Peelies are coupons which are attached to a specific product. You can peel … Continue reading

A Cornucopia of Tools

I know that it is Halloween time now, but Autumn gets me thinking about Thanksgiving. While it is an American holiday (with a somewhat simplified history), the general idea of being thankful for things is a positive practice for anyone. Thanksgiving gives me a warm feeling. Not just because of the family “togetherness” but also because I feel a real sense of thankfulness concerning many of the things I encountered tangentially to my education, yet those tangential things ended up helping me every single day in more ways than I can accurately recount. So, a month early, I’m going to … Continue reading