How Computers Work: What Makes a Computer, a Computer?

The video explores the fundamental aspects of computers, starting with their omnipresence in modern life. It delves into the history of computers, from mechanical devices to modern electrical machines, highlighting their evolution. The core functions of computers—input, storage, processing, and output—are explained, emphasizing their role in manipulating information. The video also discusses various input methods and the potential future of computers, encouraging viewers to imagine and shape the technology of tomorrow.

What are some of the places where computers can be found according to May-Li?

• Only in offices and schools

• In the sky and underground

• In people's pockets, cars, and wrists

• Only in homes and libraries

What was Nat's role in the development of the Xbox?

• He was a marketing manager

• He was a software tester

• He was a customer support representative

• He was one of the original designers

What were the earliest computers made out of?

• Paper and ink

• Glass and rubber

• Plastic and silicon chips

• Wood and metal with mechanical levers and gears

What are the four tasks that all computers must perform?

• Take input, store information, process it, and output the results

• Take input, print documents, play music, and output the results

• Store information, connect to the internet, play games, and output the results

• Process information, display images, send emails, and output the results

Which of the following is NOT mentioned as an input method for computers?

• Keyboard

• Printer

• Mouse

• Microphone

What is an example of a modern use of computers that was not possible with early computers?

• Printing documents

• Tracking the stars

• Calculating basic math problems

• Talking to each other

What does a computer's processor do with information from memory?

• It deletes it immediately

• It manipulates it using an algorithm

• It sends it to the internet

• It prints it out

What can a computer display show as output?

• Text, photos, videos, or interactive games

• Only text

• Only photos

• Only videos

What is the role of algorithms in computer processing?

• They are used to take input

• They are a series of commands that manipulate information

• They are used to store information

• They are used to display output

What is the hope expressed by May-Li for the future of computers?

• That computers will no longer need input

• That people will help decide what future computers will look like

• That computers will become obsolete

• That computers will only be used for gaming