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The story of computers
This Stage 1 Computing video introduces learners to what a computer is and how the meaning of the word has changed over time.
The video explains that the word computer once described people doing calculations, before machines took on the name. It highlights key developments, from the first electronic computers in the 1940s to home computers in the 1980s, and shows how modern computers are now small enough to fit into mobile phones. It also reminds teachers that many everyday devices, such as washing machines, remote controls and smart TVs, contain computers inside, helping them to recognise that computers are part of daily life.
This video is part of Kapow’s Computing resources, which support the Cambridge Primary Computing Curriculum Framework (0059). In the Getting started: Digital skills for Computing unit, this lesson encourages learners to recognise how computers are part of their daily lives.
Stage 1, Unit 1: Getting started: Digital skills for Computing, Lesson 1: What is a computer?
