A Computer History Webquest

Computers have become such an integral part of our lives that we take them for granted.  Computers help us work and play.  They have been incorporated into almost everything we own -- our cars, televisions, microwave ovens, medical devices, etc.  Where did these wonderful machines come from?  Who invented them?  What are some of the changes that have taken place over the years?  How did they become so important to us?  Why are they so much a part of our lives today? What are the basic parts that constitute a computer and its environment?

The Task Once all research is completed, the student should be able to do the following:

• Answer a series of questions regarding the origin of computers.
• Answer a series of questions regarding the origin of and consistency of all four computer generations 1945-1956, 1956-1963, 1964-1971 and 1971-present.
• Be able to write a report giving the history of the computer from 1623 to present.
• Be able to describe the functional parts of a computer system, network and its connectivity.
• Be able to explain why computers are so much a part of our lives today.

The Process - The following steps will be observed for this activity:

• Students will work in partner teams.
• Students will divide up the work.
• Students will examine as many websites as possible (live class- in the time allotted.
• Each student will give input and evaluation of the sites being reviewed.
• Students will then cooperatively write a combined essay (APA format with 5 sentence paragraphs) giving:

a) A brief history of computers from the 1600's to the present.

b)  Details of the four generations of computers (include the distinguishing technology used, programming languages developed, etc.)

c) Describe the components of a modern computer system (input devices, output devices, storage devices, types and amount of memory, CPU's). Then list the means used to hook up computers in a computer lab (types of wires, servers, routers, etc.)
d) Conclude with a reflection on how computers have become so much a part of your life.

Be sure to use citations and include an APA reference page.

EvaluationYou will be evaluated on content, APA form and style as well as the ability to work together to produce an interesting product (feel free to insert pictures, graphics or other items of interest).

Conclusion -Upon completion of this assignment, you will have learned a lot about the history of computers, how computers have evolved in such a short time period, what actually constitutes a computer, and how much our lives are affected by computers as well as experienced a WebQuest.

http://computer.howstuffworks.com/pc.htm

http://www.computerhope.com/history/index.htm