Appendix F - Glossary

application: Software designed to accomplish a specific task such as desktop publishing or word processing.
Boolean operators: Words (e.g., AND/OR, NOT) that help focus an information search.
browser or web browser: An application that allows a user to access information on the World Wide Web.
CAD (computer-aided design): A precision-drawing program that speeds up the design process by making it easier to create and modify draft designs. Also: computer-aided design and drafting.
card: The basic unit of organization in a hypertext document.
CD-ROM (Compact Disc-Read Only Memory): A device that uses a rigid disc to store information in a form that can be read by a computer.
clip art: Digitized pictures that can be copied and used in other documents.
CLN (Community Learning Network): Network services available on the Internet that have been organized and are provided by the Ministry of Education.
database: A collection of data that is structured and organized into a chosen format. A computer database makes it easy to create, retrieve, and sort data stored electronically.
digital camera: A camera that digitizes images and stores them on a computer disk.
digitize: A process in which information is converted into a format that allows it to be stored and retrieved by a computer.
directory: An organization structure that allows files to be stored on and retrieved from a disk.
disk: A device on which information is stored for later retrieval on a computer.
download: Retrieve information from one computer and save it on another.
e-mail (electronic mail): Messages typed into computer terminals or communications networks and sent electronically to other computer users.
electronic document: Any information that is stored in an electronic format (e.g., a computer file, videotape).
electronic slide show: A series of images (e.g., pictures, text) that are created and presented using information technology tools.
ergonomics: The science that studies the relationship of humans to their working environment and seeks to improve working conditions and increase efficiency.
field: A category of information in a database.
file folder: An organizational structure that allows files to be stored on and retrieved from a disk.
font: A complete set of type of one size and style.
format a disk: Prepare a disk for storing information.
freenet: A community-sponsored electronic bulletin board that allows for low-cost access to the Internet.
FTP (file transfer protocol): A set of rules used to govern the exchange of files over the Internet.
graphics bank: A collection of digitized pictures.
graphics program: An application used to create and manipulate pictures.
hard drive: Computer hardware on which information is stored for later retrieval.
hardware: A term used to refer to the components of a computer system.
home page: The opening or title page on a World Wide Web site.
HTML (hypertext markup language): The computer language that is used to format documents for use on the World Wide Web.
hypertext: A method of organizing text that allows it to be accessed in a non-linear fashion.
icon: A graphic symbol used to represent an idea or electronic document.
information highway: A term used to describe the Internet.
information literacy: The ability to access, evaluate, organize, manipulate, and present information (including electronic information).
information technology: Electronic equipment that stores, sends, retrieves, or manages information. It includes computers, networks, electronic databases, CD-ROMs, laserdiscs, video cameras, tape-recorders, and fax machines.
integrated software: Software that combines the features of several different applications in a single program (e.g., word processing, database, spreadsheet, graphics, and communications).
Internet (the): A global information network linking computers and computer networks.
keyboard commands: Commands selected using a keyboard to accomplish tasks on a computer.
keyword: A word used to search for information on a particular topic.
LAN (local area network): A local collection of interconnected computers, printers, modems, and other devices.
laserdisc: A disc on which sound and visual images are recorded.
link: A connection between two parts of a hypertext document or two separate hypertext documents.
menu commands: Computer commands selected from a menu or list using a mouse or a keyboard to accomplish tasks on a computer.
multimedia: The combination of text, sound, and video used to present information.
network: A connected system of hardware and software that transmits data.
numeric keypad: A built-in number pad on a computer keyboard that is used to enter information into a computer program.
on-line: When one is connected to the Internet or a network of computers.
on-line help function: A feature built into many applications that provides on-screen help for the user.
on-line services: Services and resources that can be accessed by subscribers using a modem and a computer.
paint program: An application that permits users to "draw" on a computer.
password: A secret combination of characters that a user must enter to access a computer application or network.
pathway: A connection between two parts of a hypertext document. See also link.
point size: The size of the characters of a typeface.
software: A computer application or program.
spell checker: Software that checks the accuracy of spelling in a document.
spreadsheet: An application that can manipulate, calculate, and analyse numerical information.
stack: Several cards in a hypertext document that are connected or linked together. See also card.
telecommunications tools: Hardware and software that permit users to communicate with one another.
template: An empty or generic document that can easily be adapted to specific user needs.
tool palette: A collection of tools available in a program. These tools allow a user to modify, draw, or select objects.
tool or button bar: A portion of the screen (in some applications) that contains buttons for common commands.
troubleshooting: Strategies used to define and solve problems encountered while using information technology tools.
undo: A feature of many applications that allows a user to reverse the last command.
Unix: An interactive time sharing operating system invented in 1969.
virus: A program that destroys or alters files. Viruses spread from computer to computer via contaminated disks or applications.
WAN (wide area network): A collection of networks connected by communication lines to a central computer.
web browser: See browser.
word processor: An application that allows text documents to be edited and formatted on-screen before being printed.
World Wide Web: A part of the Internet that allows users to access linked text, graphics, video, and sound via a web browser.
write-protect: A way of ensuring that the contents of a disk or file can be read but not altered.

Revised: January 26, 1999

BC Ministry of Education Home Page