Input Devices: Talking to the Computer

Learning Objectives Identify at least four common input devices. Explain that input devices are used to send information or instructions *into* a computer. Match an input device to a specific task, like typing or drawing. Describe the type of information (data) a specific device sends, such as letters from a keyboard or sound from a microphone. Give an example of an instruction (an event) for two different input devices. Correctly sort a list of computer parts into 'input' and 'output' categories. How do you tell a computer what to do? Do you shout at it? 🗣️ Let's learn the secret ways we can talk to our computers! Today, we're going to explore the special tools we use to give computers instructions. These tools are called input devices, and th...

TermDefinitionExample Input DeviceA piece of computer hardware that lets you send information or instructions *into* the computer.A mouse is an input device because you use it to tell the computer where to point and click. InputThe information or command you give to a computer.When you press the 'A' key on a keyboard, the letter 'A' is the input. KeyboardAn input device with many buttons called keys, used for typing letters, numbers, and symbols.You use a keyboard to type your name into a website. MouseA pointing input device that lets you move a cursor on the screen and click on things.You use a mouse to click the 'play' button on a video. MicrophoneAn input device that takes your voice or other sounds and turns them into information the computer can underst...

The 'Input First' Pattern You give an INPUT -> The computer does something. A computer won't do anything until you give it an instruction first. An input device is how you start any action, like clicking a mouse or pressing a key. The 'Device-to-Task' Matching Rule Choose the best tool (device) for the job (task). Use this rule to decide which input device is best. For typing a story, use a keyboard. For drawing a picture, a mouse or a touchscreen is better. The 'Action is an Event' Pattern Your action on an input device creates an 'event' that tells the computer to do something NOW. When you want the computer to react, you have to cause an event. Clicking the mouse is an event. Pressing the spacebar is an event. The co...