Computer Literacy/Software

Why do computers behave the way they do? And why do some computers behave differently than others? Here we learn about software, the essence that makes computers do what they do.

Specialized computers
Some computers do only one thing. For example, the embedded computer inside kitchen scale cares only about measuring weight. Let's look at a few other examples.

Can you think of other specialized computers that focus on one task?

Apps
Other computers, for example smartphones, have some basic functions like calling and sending text messages, but they can also run many apps that do a variety of tasks.


 * calculator app
 * alarm clock / timer
 * book reader

Can you name other apps? Did you use some of them?

Apps have many advantages. You can pack a lot of apps in one device. Apps usually don't cost you anything. And it is easy to replace misbehaving app with a better one.

Apps are also called applications, programs, or software.

Intelligent computers
Computers are not smart like humans. They cannot think and act with reason. Not yet anyway. But they sometimes come close. Echo, a kind of smart speaker, is a computer able to communicate with Alexa to answer questions about a number of topics. Many apps can do the same.