KRMVP/2020-21/CLASS X / IT / Chapter Web Applications

Computer Accessibility refers to the user friendliness of a computer system for all, regardless of their disability.
However, a combination of hardware and software, enables a person with a disability or impairment to use a
computer. It is known as Assistive Technology.

Types of Impairments

1. Deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or autism.

2. Visual impairment such as low-vision, complete or partial blindness, and color blindness.

3. Hearing impairment including deafness.

4. Motor or dexterity impairment such as paralysis, cerebral palsy, or carpal tunnel syndrome and
repetitive strain injury.

Accessibility Options

 Accessibility Options in Control Panel is used to customize the way your keyboard, display, or mouse
function.

Launching accessibility options- To launch accessibility options in WindowsXP, Click Start > Control Panel >
Accessibility Options. The Accessibility Options window appears.

Keyboard Tab

 1. StickyKeys is an accessibility feature to help computer users with physical disabilities, but it is also used by others
as a means to reduce repetitive strain. StickyKeys allows the user to press and release a modifier key, such as Shift,
Ctrl, Alt, or the Windows key, and have it remain active until any other key is pressed.

2. FilterKeys is a feature of Microsoft Windows. It is an accessibility function that tells the keyboard to ignore brief or
repeated keystrokes, making typing easier for people with hand tremors.

3. ToggleKeys is feature of Microsoft Windows. It is designed for people who have vision impairment or cognitive
disabilities. When ToggleKeys is turned on, computer emits sound cues when the locking keys (Caps Lock, Num Lock,
or Scroll Lock) are pressed. A high sound is emitted when the keys are switched on and a low sound is emitted when
they are switched off.

Sound Tab

1. SoundSentry is designed to help users with auditory impairments. It generates visual warnings, such as a blinking
title bar or a flashing border, whenever the computer generates a sound.

2. ShowSounds instructs applications that convey information by sound, to also provide information visually, through
text captions or informative icons.

Display Tab

1. High Contrast is an accessibility feature to assist people with vision impairment. It includes changing of size
and color of the font.

2. Cursor Option is a feature for vision impairment by changing the blink rate and width of the cursor

Mouse Tab - MouseKeys is an option where keyboard is used as a pointing device instead of mouse.

General Tab – it enables you to configure accessibility option for all users.
SerialKeys – It assist people with difficulty using a keyboard or a mouse both. It includes devices like Sip, Puff and
breath switches to provide input through Serial Ports.

Networking fundamentals

A computer network is a collection of computers and other hardware components interconnected by

communication channels (cables or satellites) that allow sharing of resources and information. 

Networks Architecture

Peer-to-peer (P2P) Networks in which all computers have an equal status are called peer to peer networks. Generally
in such a network each terminal has an equally competent CPU.

Client- Server Networks in which certain computers have special dedicated tasks, providing services to other
computers (in the network) are called client server networks. The computer(s) which provide services are called
servers and the ones that use these services are called clients.

Types of networks

Local Area Network (LAN) - It is one which connects computers and devices in a limited geographical area such as
home, school, computer laboratory, office building, or closely positioned group of buildings. Usually local area
networks offer very high speeds and are used for connecting computers and peripherals such as printers, scanners,
etc. 

Wide Area Network (WAN) - It is one which covers a broad area (metropolitan, regional, or national boundaries).
The Internet is the most popular WAN, and is used by businesses, governments, non- profit organizations, individual
consumers, artists, entertainers, and many others.

Internet

The Internet is a global system of interconnected computer networks that use the standard Internet protocol suite to
serve billions of users worldwide. It is a network of networks that consists of millions of private, public, academic,
business, and government networks.

World Wide Web

World Wide Web (abbreviated as WWW or W3, commonly known as the Web), is a system of interlinked hypertext
documents accessed via the Internet.

Web browser

Using this software one can view web pages that may contain text, images, videos, and other multimedia, and
navigate between them via hyperlinks.

Advantages of networking

1. Data Sharing: Users can send text files, spread sheets, documents, presentations, audio files, video files, etc.
to other users.

2. Hardware Sharing: Hardware components such as printers, scanners, etc. can also be shared. For example,
one printer can be purchased and shared among multiple users thus saving cost.

3. Internet Access Sharing: A single Internet connection can be shared among other computers in a network
instead of purchasing multiple Internet connection for each computer. This is very commonly found in
Internet café (browsing centres), schools, colleges, companies, etc.
 4. Usage of network based applications such as web browsers, email clients, chat application, audio &
video calling, etc is another advantage.

Internet Service Provider

ISP is an organization which provides you with access to the Internet via a dial- up (using modem) or direct (hard
wired) or wireless connection.

Modem

A modem is a device that converts digital computer signals into a form (analog signals) that can travel over phone
lines. It also re-converts the analog signals back into digital signals. The word modem is derived from its function
MOdulator/DEModulator.

Types of Common Internet Connectivity

1. Wired Connection 

2. Wireless Connection

Wired Connection 

1. Dial Up - Dial-up Internet access is a form of Internet access that uses the facilities of the Public switched
telephone network (PSTN) to establish a connection to an ISP via telephone lines

2. DSL - Digital subscriber line (DSL) provide Internet access by transmitting digital data over wires of a local
telephone network. For using a DSL connection, you need a DSL modem and a subscription.

3. Cable Internet Access - A form of broadband Internet access that uses cable television infrastructure

Wireless Connection 

1. 3G - High-Speed Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA) is 3Generation mobile tele communications protocol that
allows higher data transfer speeds and capacity.

2. WiMAX (Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access) – It is a wireless communications standard

providing broadband connectivity across cities and countries through a variety of devices.

3. Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) - It is a popular technology that allows an electronic device to exchange
data wirelessly over a network, including high-speed Internet connections. 

Process of data transfer on the Internet

1. The data is broken up into bits of same sized pieces called packets.

2. A header is added to each packet explaining where the data has come from, where it should end up and where it
fits in with the rest of the packets.

3. Each computer on the way decides where next to send the packet.

4. At the destination, the packets are examined. If any packets are missing or damaged, a message is sent asking for
them to be re-sent. This continues until all packets have been received intact.

5. The packets are now reassembled into their original form. All this done in Nano seconds.

INSTANT MESSAGING (IM)

It is a form of communication over the Internet that offers an instantaneous transmission of text-based messages
from sender to receiver.
Key Features of an instant messaging

Text Messages can be sent to one or more person (Similar to SMS)

• Audio calling and conferencing.

• Video calling and conferencing.

• File transfers (Not limited to documents, spread sheets, audio files, video files, etc.)

• Message history (Save messages for future reference).

Instant Messaging Software

 Application Based Instant messaging Software – Google talk, Skype, Rediff bol, Yahoo Messenger

 Web Based Instant messaging Software – Meebo, IMO, MSN Web Messenger

CHATTING WITH A CONTACT

General rules and etiquettes to be followed while chatting and emailing:-

1. Messages should be short and to the point.

2. Always introduce yourself by name if your screen name doesn't reflect it.

3. Always ask if the other person has time to chat first - regardless of how important you think what you have to say
is, it's not going to be well received if the recipient is busy.

4. In a business environment, know exactly what you want to discuss.

5. TYPING YOUR MESSAGES IN UPPERCASE is extremely rude - it's considered very aggressive.

6. Give people time to respond - Multiple questions sent to a recipient before they've had a chance to answer can
seem more like an interrogation rather than a conversation.

Creating a Blog Account

 A blog is a discussion style site used by non-technical (or technical users) users for creating personal web
pages. Blogs are similar to an online personal diary and simple to use.

 WordPress, Weebly, blogsome are web services that you can use to create a beautiful website or blog. They
support “themes” for customizing the design of a blog which can make blog look attractive.

 Offline Blog editors help to create blogs without Internet connection – Eg – Qumana, Ecto, Windows
LiveWriter, Blogdesk

ONLINE TRANSACTIONS

 Online shopping is a form of electronic commerce where customers can buy or sell goods over the Internet.
The payment tools can be a credit card, debit card or Net Banking. Benefits:-

1. Time saving

2. Visiting a store is more expensive than purchasing a product online.

3. A product or service that is not available in the local market is available online.

Some of the popular online transaction websites are:

  1. IRCTC, Expedia are an online portal for booking flight and train tickets.

 2. Flipkart, Amazon an online shopping portal for buying consumer products.

 3. EBay, OLX an online portal for buying and selling goods.

 4. Redbus, PUREBUS an online portal for booking bus tickets.

INTERNET SECURITY

 Internet security is a branch of computer security involving browser and network security.

 Its objective is to establish rules and measures to use against attacks over the Internet.

 Internet being an insecure channel for exchanging information leading to a high risk of intrusion or fraud,
such as phishing, emails spoofing and other Malware and hence can be protected using firewalls, Antivirus
etc.

Best Practices for Internet safety

1. Use strong password - Following are general guidelines for managing strong passwords:-

a. Keep the length of the password at least 12-14 characters if permitted.

b. Avoid keeping passwords based on dictionary words, letter or number sequences, relative or pet names, etc. and
include numbers, and symbols in passwords if allowed.

c. Use capital and lower-case letters.

d. Avoid using the same password for multiple sites or purposes.

e. Use random password generators if possible.

2. Backup data: Always keep copies of personal data in additional media such as CD, pen drives etc.

3. Keeping your username and password private: Never save your username or password on computers

that are used in shared environments such as internet café.

4. Registering with websites: Read the privacy statement or policy whenever you register with a website,

the statement or policy will include information about how the website use personal data.

5. Do not share personal information on unknown websites

6. Secure transactions: While using online shopping or transactions, make sure using a safe connection while
entering personal information like your credit card number, account details, etc.

7. Do not immediately respond to mails from unknown users

8. Use antivirus and antispyware software

9. Clear browser cookies frequently

10. Install firewalls: Firewalls is software which assists in keeping a computer and a network secure.

11. Never install software from unknown sources

12. Remove unwanted or unknown software applications

Maintain workplace safety

Basic Fire safety rules in an organization are :

- Fire escape plans must be installed at proper levels

- Conduct regular drills
- Maintenance of safety equipment must be taken care of regularly

Falls and Slips Safety rules

- Workplace must be proper ventilated

- Floors must be clean and dry
- Oil spills, dust must be immediately cleaned.
- Smoke alarms must be placed at proper intervals
- Keep workplace a no-smoking zone.

Electrical safety rules:

- Electrical equipment approved by a recognised organization.

- Damaged and hazardous electrical equipment should be immediately replaced. all old and workout
and frayed switches and wires should be changed.
- Heat emanating equipment should be kept away from the electrical equipment.
- Take care that the outlets/ circuits should not be overloaded

Use of First Aid

First Aid is the immediate assistance provided to the injured to save life and minimize health loss till the
proper medical aid/ facility is provided.

Every organization must have basic First Aid Kit. Kit must have all necessary items. Make sure to check for
the expiry of medical related items.

Some rules of First Aid are :

- Assure the injured to remain calm and not to panic

- Keep them warm if they are under shock
- Do not move the victim in case of back/neck injury

A worker may face Occupational hazards at workplace.

Prevent Accidents and Emergencies

Accident: an accident is an unplanned event that may happen all of a sudden and may lead to
unwanted or unprecedented results/outcomes.

Types of Accidents:
Accidents may be of following types :

- Accidents at workplace : Slips and fall accidents, fire

- Industrial disease/illness
- Road traffic accidents
- Clinical Accidents
 Sports related accidents

Handling accidents:
Accidents must be handled carefully. The accident should be handled compassionately without
assigning blame on others.
- Every organization must follow SOP for accident handling
- Safety measures must be placed to prevent workplace accidents
- Immediately call the medical team for any injury
- Stay alert
Pay attention to and follow emergency drills

Protect Health and Safety at work

Hazards can be of different types depending on the industry and the environment in which the employees
work. The different types of hazards include:
● Physical
● Chemical
● Biological
● Mechanical

Sources of Hazards
Checklist for Workstations :
The workstation should:
● provide sufficient space for the user to alter position comfortably
● provide adequate lighting
● have windows fitted with adjustable coverings to alter the sunlight level
● be spacious enough when a workstation is shared by more than one person
The display screen should:
● display well-defined characters of adequate size and spacing
● have a stable image
● have easily adjustable brightness and contrast
● tilt and swivel easily to suit the user
● be free from glare and reflections
● Use a separate base for the screen or an adjustable table
The keyboard should:
● be able to tilt easily and should be able to separate from the screen to allow the user to adopt a
comfortable working position
● have space in front to provide support for the hands or arms of the user
● have a matt surface
● have clearly legible symbols on the keys
The work surface should:
● provide adequate space for the user
● have a low reflective surface
● be of an adequate size to allow the screen, keyboard and other peripherals to be flexibly
arranged
● have a stable and adjustable document holder, which should be at the same level as the screen
and at the same viewing distance
 Workplace Evacuation
In case of emergency there should be provision for evacuation. Evacuation is the process of emptying a
place in case of an emergency, disaster.
Every company must ensure following points for evacuation in case of any emergency:
 
   An evacuation policy : Every organization must have an evacuation policy.  All the Team Leaders are
responsible for informing about the policy to their employees about it. Proper attention must be
paid when the Team Leader is informing you about these details. Negligence at this time may
cost lives.
   Organization must have a designated assembly point for emergencies. Ensure that every
employee/ worker must know where it is.
    A ‘buddy system’ for individuals with special needs or disabilities must be designated. This
system ensures that differently-abled are assisted and guided out of the premises or the
impacted area properly. If you are a buddy to someone, ensure that your buddy is safe at the
assembly point with you.
     Floor plans with evacuation routes in work areas. Ensure that you understand these so you can use
it in time of need.
      Assembly areas, where you are required to assemble after evacuation, must be properly taken care
of.
  Periodic evacuation drills should be conducted. Ensure that you pay attention during these drills.
You need to save your life and you can be helpful in saving someone else’s life too.

Healthy Living

‘A healthy body has a healthy mind’ - a very popular saying is true .

‘Healthy Lifestyle leads to a healthy being. A healthy living has a lasting impact on an individual which
ultimately yields a healthy environment at home as well as at work place. a happy and healthy worker will
always perform best to his ability.

A healthy lifestyle helps to keep and improve people’s health and well being.

a healthy lifestyle includes :

- healthy eating habits

- physical activities
- stress management
- healthy mind
- sound sleep
- goal setting