Chapter 03: Emerging Trends
3.1 Introduction to Emerging Trends
The world of computing is constantly changing. New technologies are developed regularly to solve complex problems, improve efficiency, and enhance the quality of life. These new and rapidly developing technologies are referred to as emerging trends.
According to the NCERT textbook, emerging trends in computing are technologies that are new, innovative, and have the potential to significantly impact society, business, and technology in the near future. These trends influence how data is generated, processed, stored, and shared.
Meaning of Emerging Trends
An emerging trend is a technological development that:
- Is relatively new or evolving
- Shows rapid growth
- Has wide-ranging applications
- Is expected to shape the future of computing
Emerging trends often arise due to:
- Advances in hardware
- Availability of large amounts of data
- Faster internet connectivity
- Increasing demand for automation and intelligence
Why Emerging Trends Are Important
NCERT emphasises that understanding emerging trends is important because:
- They transform the way computers are used
- They create new career opportunities
- They influence almost every sector of society
- They help solve real-world problems efficiently
For example:
- Smart assistants use Artificial Intelligence
- Online storage uses Cloud Computing
- Smart homes use Internet of Things
- Digital currencies use Blockchain technology
Characteristics of Emerging Technologies
Emerging technologies generally have the following characteristics:
Innovation They introduce new ways of performing tasks or solving problems.
Rapid Development They evolve quickly compared to traditional technologies.
Wide Impact They affect multiple domains such as healthcare, education, business, and governance.
Scalability They can grow and handle increasing demand.
Integration They often work together with other technologies.
Role of Data in Emerging Trends
NCERT highlights that data plays a central role in most emerging trends. Modern systems generate enormous amounts of data from:
- Social media
- Sensors
- Mobile devices
- Online transactions
This data is analysed and processed using advanced technologies to extract useful information and support decision-making.
Examples of Emerging Trends (Overview)
In this chapter, NCERT introduces the following major emerging trends:
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) – Making machines intelligent
- Big Data – Handling and analysing massive datasets
- Internet of Things (IoT) – Connecting everyday devices to the internet
- Cloud Computing – On-demand access to computing resources
- Grid Computing – Sharing computational power across networks
- Blockchain – Secure and decentralised data storage
Each of these trends is discussed in detail in the subsequent sections.
Impact of Emerging Trends on Society
Emerging trends have a significant impact on society:
- Automation reduces manual work
- Smart systems improve efficiency
- Digital services improve accessibility
- Decision-making becomes data-driven
However, NCERT also expects students to be aware of concerns such as:
- Data privacy
- Security
- Ethical issues
- Dependence on technology
Key Points to Remember (NCERT-Oriented)
- Emerging trends are new and evolving technologies
- They shape the future of computing
- Data plays a central role in emerging trends
- These technologies impact multiple sectors
- Understanding them is essential for digital literacy
3.2 Artificial Intelligence (AI)
One of the most important emerging trends in computing is Artificial Intelligence (AI). Artificial Intelligence refers to the ability of machines to simulate human intelligence and perform tasks that normally require human thinking, such as learning, reasoning, decision-making, and problem-solving.
According to the NCERT textbook, Artificial Intelligence is a branch of computer science that aims to create intelligent machines capable of performing tasks that require human intelligence.
AI systems do not just follow fixed instructions; instead, they are designed to learn from data, adapt to new situations, and improve performance over time.
Meaning of Artificial Intelligence
Artificial Intelligence can be understood by breaking the term into two parts:
- Artificial – Man-made or created by humans
- Intelligence – Ability to think, learn, reason, and make decisions
Thus, Artificial Intelligence means making machines intelligent, so that they can behave like humans in certain situations.
Why Artificial Intelligence Is Needed
NCERT highlights that AI is needed because:
- Humans cannot process extremely large amounts of data efficiently
- Machines can work continuously without fatigue
- AI systems can make faster and more accurate decisions
- Automation increases efficiency and productivity
AI helps in solving complex problems that are difficult or time-consuming for humans.
Characteristics of Artificial Intelligence
Artificial Intelligence systems have the following key characteristics:
Learning Ability AI systems can learn from experience and data rather than being explicitly programmed for every situation.
Reasoning AI systems can analyse information and draw logical conclusions.
Problem Solving AI can identify problems and find suitable solutions.
Decision Making AI systems can make decisions based on available data.
Adaptability AI systems can adjust their behaviour based on changes in the environment.
Types of Artificial Intelligence (NCERT Scope)
At this level, NCERT broadly classifies AI into two categories:
1. Narrow AI (Weak AI)
- Designed to perform a specific task
- Operates within limited scope
- Most AI systems today fall under this category
Examples:
- Voice assistants
- Recommendation systems
- Face recognition systems
2. General AI (Strong AI)
- Capable of performing any intellectual task that a human can do
- Still under research and development
- Not yet achieved in reality
Applications of Artificial Intelligence
NCERT explains that Artificial Intelligence is used in many fields:
1. Healthcare
- Disease diagnosis
- Medical imaging
- Virtual health assistants
2. Education
- Intelligent tutoring systems
- Automated grading
- Personalised learning
3. Banking and Finance
- Fraud detection
- Credit scoring
- Chatbots for customer service
4. Transportation
- Self-driving vehicles
- Traffic management systems
5. Entertainment
- Recommendation systems
- Gaming AI
Artificial Intelligence in Everyday Life
Many AI applications are already part of daily life, such as:
- Voice assistants
- Online recommendations
- Face unlock in smartphones
- Spam email filters
These applications show how AI improves convenience and efficiency.
Advantages of Artificial Intelligence
Artificial Intelligence offers several benefits:
- High accuracy
- Faster processing
- Reduction in human error
- Continuous operation
- Ability to handle large datasets
Limitations of Artificial Intelligence
NCERT also emphasises the limitations of AI:
- High development cost
- Dependence on quality data
- Lack of human emotions and creativity
- Ethical and privacy concerns
- Risk of job displacement
Understanding these limitations is important for responsible use of AI.
Ethical Concerns Related to AI (Conceptual)
AI raises ethical questions such as:
- Data privacy
- Bias in decision-making
- Transparency of AI systems
- Accountability for AI decisions
NCERT expects students to be aware of these concerns at a conceptual level.
Key Points to Remember (NCERT-Oriented)
- Artificial Intelligence simulates human intelligence
- AI systems can learn and adapt
- Most current AI systems are Narrow AI
- AI has wide applications across sectors
- AI has advantages as well as limitations
- Ethical use of AI is important
3.3 Big Data
In the digital age, enormous amounts of data are generated every second from various sources such as social media, mobile devices, sensors, online transactions, and multimedia content. Traditional data-processing methods are not sufficient to handle such massive and complex datasets. This led to the emergence of a new concept known as Big Data.
According to the NCERT textbook, Big Data refers to extremely large and complex datasets that cannot be processed efficiently using traditional data-processing tools and techniques.
Meaning of Big Data
Big Data is not just about the size of data. It also refers to:
- The speed at which data is generated
- The variety of data formats
- The complexity of managing and analysing data
Thus, Big Data involves collecting, storing, processing, and analysing data to extract useful information and support decision-making.
Why Big Data Is Needed
NCERT highlights that Big Data is needed because:
- Organisations generate huge volumes of data daily
- Data-driven decision-making improves accuracy
- Patterns and trends can be discovered from data
- Businesses can gain competitive advantages
- Governments can improve planning and governance
Big Data helps convert raw data into meaningful insights.
Characteristics of Big Data (The 5 V’s)
NCERT explains Big Data using five main characteristics, commonly known as the 5 V’s of Big Data.
1. Volume
- Refers to the large amount of data generated
- Data size ranges from terabytes to petabytes
- Examples include social media posts, videos, and transaction records
2. Velocity
- Refers to the speed at which data is generated and processed
- Data may be generated in real time or near real time
- Examples include live sensor data and online transactions
3. Variety
- Refers to the different types of data
Data may be:
- Structured (tables, databases)
- Semi-structured (XML, JSON)
- Unstructured (images, videos, text)
4. Veracity
- Refers to the accuracy and reliability of data
- Data may be incomplete, noisy, or inconsistent
- Ensuring data quality is a major challenge
5. Value
- Refers to the usefulness of data
- The goal of Big Data analysis is to extract valuable insights
- Not all data is useful unless properly analysed
📌 NCERT Exam Point Big Data is characterised by Volume, Velocity, Variety, Veracity, and Value.
Sources of Big Data
Big Data is generated from multiple sources, including:
- Social media platforms
- Mobile devices
- Sensors and IoT devices
- Online transactions
- Healthcare systems
- Scientific research
These sources continuously produce data at a very high speed.
Applications of Big Data
NCERT explains that Big Data is widely used in various fields:
1. Business and Marketing
- Customer behaviour analysis
- Personalised advertisements
- Sales forecasting
2. Healthcare
- Disease prediction
- Patient record analysis
- Medical research
3. Education
- Student performance analysis
- Personalised learning paths
4. Government
- Smart city planning
- Crime analysis
- Public service improvement
5. Science and Research
- Climate modelling
- Space research
- Genomic analysis
Advantages of Big Data
Big Data provides several benefits:
- Improved decision-making
- Better understanding of customers
- Increased efficiency
- Identification of trends and patterns
- Enhanced innovation
Challenges of Big Data
NCERT also highlights the challenges associated with Big Data:
- Storage and processing complexity
- Data privacy and security issues
- High infrastructure cost
- Difficulty in managing unstructured data
- Ensuring data accuracy
Understanding these challenges is important for effective use of Big Data.
Big Data and Other Emerging Trends
Big Data often works together with:
- Artificial Intelligence for intelligent analysis
- Cloud Computing for scalable storage
- Internet of Things for data generation
This integration enhances the power and usefulness of emerging technologies.
Key Points to Remember (NCERT-Oriented)
- Big Data refers to extremely large and complex datasets
- Traditional tools are insufficient for Big Data
- Big Data is defined by the 5 V’s
- Data is collected from multiple sources
- Big Data enables data-driven decision-making
- Big Data has benefits as well as challenges
3.4 Internet of Things (IoT)
With the advancement of communication technologies and the widespread availability of the internet, everyday objects are no longer isolated. They can now be connected, monitored, and controlled remotely. This concept is known as the Internet of Things (IoT).
According to the NCERT textbook, the Internet of Things (IoT) refers to a network of physical devices, also called things, that are embedded with sensors, software, and connectivity, enabling them to collect and exchange data over the internet.
Meaning of Internet of Things
The term Internet of Things can be understood as:
- Internet – Global network used for communication
- Things – Physical objects such as appliances, vehicles, machines, and wearable devices
Thus, IoT means connecting physical objects to the internet so that they can communicate with each other and with users without continuous human intervention.
Why Internet of Things Is Needed
NCERT highlights the need for IoT due to the following reasons:
- Automation of routine tasks
- Remote monitoring and control of devices
- Efficient use of resources
- Real-time data collection and analysis
- Improved comfort, safety, and productivity
IoT helps in making systems smart, efficient, and responsive.
Components of an IoT System
An Internet of Things system consists of the following main components:
1. Devices (Things)
These are physical objects equipped with:
- Sensors
- Actuators
- Embedded systems
Examples include:
- Smart lights
- Wearable fitness bands
- Smart thermostats
- Connected vehicles
2. Sensors
Sensors collect data from the environment, such as:
- Temperature
- Humidity
- Motion
- Light
- Pressure
The collected data is sent to other components for processing.
3. Connectivity
Devices communicate using the internet or other communication technologies such as:
- Wi-Fi
- Bluetooth
- Mobile networks
Connectivity enables data transfer between devices and servers.
4. Data Processing
The collected data is processed using software systems to:
- Analyse conditions
- Make decisions
- Trigger actions
This processing may take place on cloud platforms or local servers.
5. User Interface
The processed data is presented to users through:
- Mobile apps
- Web dashboards
- Alerts and notifications
Users can also send commands back to devices through the interface.
📌 NCERT Exam Point IoT integrates sensors, connectivity, data processing, and user interaction.
Working of Internet of Things (Conceptual)
The basic working of IoT follows these steps:
- Sensors collect data from devices
- Data is transmitted over the internet
- Data is processed and analysed
- Appropriate action is taken or information is displayed to users
This process occurs continuously and automatically.
Applications of Internet of Things
NCERT explains that IoT has a wide range of applications:
1. Smart Homes
- Smart lighting
- Smart appliances
- Remote control of devices
2. Healthcare
- Remote patient monitoring
- Wearable health devices
- Emergency alert systems
3. Smart Cities
- Traffic management
- Smart waste management
- Energy-efficient street lighting
4. Agriculture
- Smart irrigation systems
- Soil moisture monitoring
- Crop health analysis
5. Industry
- Industrial automation
- Predictive maintenance
- Supply chain monitoring
Advantages of Internet of Things
IoT offers several benefits:
- Automation of tasks
- Improved efficiency
- Real-time monitoring
- Reduced human effort
- Better resource utilisation
Limitations and Challenges of IoT
NCERT also highlights some challenges of IoT:
- Data privacy and security concerns
- High implementation cost
- Dependence on internet connectivity
- Complexity of managing large networks
- Interoperability issues between devices
IoT and Other Emerging Trends
IoT works closely with:
- Big Data – for analysing massive sensor data
- Artificial Intelligence – for intelligent decision-making
- Cloud Computing – for scalable storage and processing
Together, these technologies enhance the effectiveness of IoT systems.
Key Points to Remember (NCERT-Oriented)
- IoT connects physical devices to the internet
- Sensors play a key role in data collection
- IoT systems operate automatically
- IoT has applications in homes, cities, healthcare, and industry
- Security and privacy are major concerns
3.5 Cloud Computing
With the rapid growth of data and internet usage, storing and processing data on individual computers has become inefficient and costly. To overcome these limitations, a new computing model known as Cloud Computing has emerged.
According to the NCERT textbook, Cloud Computing refers to the delivery of computing services such as storage, processing power, software, and networking over the internet on a pay-as-you-use basis, instead of owning and maintaining physical infrastructure.
Meaning of Cloud Computing
The term cloud refers to the internet, and computing refers to the processing and storage of data. Thus, Cloud Computing means:
Using remote servers on the internet to store, manage, and process data instead of using local computers or servers.
In cloud computing, users access resources on demand, without worrying about hardware installation or maintenance.
Why Cloud Computing Is Needed
NCERT highlights the need for cloud computing due to the following reasons:
- Large data storage requirements
- Increasing cost of hardware and maintenance
- Need for remote access to data
- Scalability and flexibility
- Efficient sharing of resources
Cloud computing enables users to focus on using services rather than managing infrastructure.
Characteristics of Cloud Computing
Cloud computing has the following key characteristics:
1. On-Demand Self-Service
Users can access computing resources automatically whenever required.
2. Broad Network Access
Services are accessible through standard devices such as computers, tablets, and smartphones via the internet.
3. Resource Pooling
Computing resources are shared among multiple users to optimise utilisation.
4. Rapid Scalability
Resources can be increased or decreased easily according to demand.
5. Measured Service
Users pay only for the resources they use.
📌 NCERT Exam Point Cloud computing provides scalable and on-demand computing resources over the internet.
Cloud Service Models
NCERT introduces three main service models of cloud computing:
1. Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)
- Provides virtualised hardware resources
- Includes storage, servers, and networking
- Users manage operating systems and applications
Example (conceptual): Virtual machines, online storage
2. Platform as a Service (PaaS)
- Provides a platform for application development
- Users focus on developing applications
- Infrastructure and operating system are managed by the service provider
Example (conceptual): Online development platforms
3. Software as a Service (SaaS)
- Provides ready-to-use software over the internet
- No installation required
- Accessible through web browsers
Examples: Email services, online office tools
📌 NCERT Observation In SaaS, users only use the software; everything else is managed by the provider.
Types of Cloud Deployment Models
Clouds can be deployed in different ways:
1. Public Cloud
- Services provided over the public internet
- Shared among multiple users
- Cost-effective
2. Private Cloud
- Dedicated cloud for a single organisation
- Higher security and control
3. Hybrid Cloud
- Combination of public and private clouds
- Offers flexibility and security
Advantages of Cloud Computing
Cloud computing offers several benefits:
- Cost reduction
- Easy scalability
- Data accessibility from anywhere
- Automatic software updates
- Reduced hardware dependency
Limitations of Cloud Computing
NCERT also highlights certain limitations:
- Data security and privacy concerns
- Dependence on internet connectivity
- Limited control over infrastructure
- Risk of service downtime
Understanding these limitations is important for responsible cloud usage.
Cloud Computing and Other Emerging Trends
Cloud computing supports:
- Big Data by providing scalable storage
- Artificial Intelligence by offering processing power
- IoT by managing and analysing device data
Thus, cloud computing acts as a backbone technology for many emerging trends.
Key Points to Remember (NCERT-Oriented)
- Cloud computing delivers services over the internet
- Users pay only for what they use
- Cloud services are scalable and flexible
- Three service models: IaaS, PaaS, SaaS
- Cloud computing has advantages and limitations
3.6 Grid Computing
As computing problems became more complex, a single computer often proved insufficient to handle very large calculations within a reasonable time. To address this limitation, a computing approach known as Grid Computing was developed.
According to the NCERT textbook, Grid Computing is a form of distributed computing in which a group of geographically dispersed computers are connected together to work on a single large task by sharing their processing power, memory, and storage resources.
Meaning of Grid Computing
The term grid refers to a network or framework. Thus, Grid Computing means:
Using a network of computers to collectively solve large computational problems by dividing the work among multiple machines.
Each computer in the grid contributes a portion of its unused resources, making the entire system powerful and efficient.
Why Grid Computing Is Needed
NCERT highlights the need for grid computing because:
- Some problems require very high computational power
- Single systems are expensive and limited in capability
- Many computers remain underutilised most of the time
- Resource sharing reduces overall cost
Grid computing makes use of idle resources to solve complex problems efficiently.
Working of Grid Computing (Conceptual)
The basic working of grid computing involves the following steps:
- A large task is divided into smaller sub-tasks
- These sub-tasks are distributed among different computers in the grid
- Each computer processes its assigned sub-task independently
- The results are sent back and combined to form the final output
This approach significantly reduces processing time.
Key Components of Grid Computing
An NCERT-level grid computing system consists of:
- Grid Nodes – Individual computers participating in the grid
- Network – Connects the computers
- Middleware – Software that manages task distribution and coordination
- Applications – Programs that use grid resources
Characteristics of Grid Computing
Grid computing has the following important characteristics:
Resource Sharing Multiple computers share their resources such as CPU, memory, and storage.
Geographical Distribution Computers in a grid may be located at different places.
Heterogeneity Different types of computers and operating systems can be part of a grid.
Scalability More computers can be added easily to increase computing power.
Cost Effectiveness Makes use of existing hardware instead of investing in supercomputers.
📌 NCERT Exam Point Grid computing combines the power of multiple computers to perform large computations.
Applications of Grid Computing
NCERT explains that grid computing is used in areas that require massive computational power, such as:
1. Scientific Research
- Climate modelling
- Space research
- Physics simulations
2. Medical Research
- Drug discovery
- Genetic analysis
- Disease modelling
3. Engineering
- Structural analysis
- Complex simulations
4. Data Analysis
- Processing large datasets
- Pattern analysis
Advantages of Grid Computing
Grid computing offers several benefits:
- High processing power
- Efficient resource utilisation
- Reduced execution time
- Cost savings
- Flexibility and scalability
Limitations of Grid Computing
NCERT also highlights some limitations:
- Complex management
- Dependence on network connectivity
- Security concerns
- Data transfer overhead
- Not suitable for all types of applications
Difference Between Grid Computing and Cloud Computing (Conceptual)
| Grid Computing | Cloud Computing |
|---|---|
| Focuses on computation | Focuses on services |
| Uses distributed computers | Uses centralised data centres |
| Resource sharing | Resource provisioning |
| Mainly for scientific tasks | Used by general users |
Grid Computing and Other Emerging Trends
Grid computing often works alongside:
- Big Data for large-scale data processing
- Cloud Computing for storage and service delivery
- Artificial Intelligence for complex computations
Key Points to Remember (NCERT-Oriented)
- Grid computing is a type of distributed computing
- It combines resources of multiple computers
- Tasks are divided and processed in parallel
- Grid computing is cost-effective
- Used mainly in scientific and research fields
3.7 Blockchains
With the rapid growth of digital transactions and online data exchange, ensuring data security, transparency, and trust has become a major challenge. Traditional systems usually rely on a central authority to manage and verify data, which may lead to issues such as data tampering, fraud, and lack of transparency. To overcome these limitations, a new technology called Blockchain has emerged.
According to the NCERT textbook, Blockchain is a technology that enables the secure and transparent recording of data and transactions across a distributed network of computers, without the need for a central authority.
Meaning of Blockchain
The term blockchain can be understood as:
- Block – A unit that stores data or transaction records
- Chain – A sequence of blocks linked together
Thus, a blockchain is a chain of blocks, where each block contains data and is securely connected to the previous block using cryptographic techniques.
Why Blockchain Is Needed
NCERT highlights the need for blockchain technology due to the following reasons:
- Increasing number of digital transactions
- Need for secure and tamper-proof data storage
- Requirement of trust without intermediaries
- Demand for transparency and traceability
Blockchain helps create a system where data integrity and trust are built into the technology itself.
How Blockchain Works (Conceptual Explanation)
The basic working of blockchain can be explained as follows:
- A transaction is initiated
- The transaction is verified by multiple computers (nodes) in the network
- Verified transactions are grouped into a block
- The block is added to the existing chain of blocks
- Once added, the data becomes permanent and cannot be altered
Each block contains:
- Transaction data
- A timestamp
- A reference to the previous block
This structure ensures security and continuity.
📌 NCERT Exam Point Once data is recorded in a blockchain, it cannot be easily modified or deleted.
Key Features of Blockchain Technology
Blockchain has several important features:
1. Decentralisation
- No single central authority controls the data
- Data is distributed across multiple computers
2. Transparency
- All participants can view transactions
- Increases trust among users
3. Immutability
- Data once recorded cannot be changed
- Prevents data tampering
4. Security
- Uses cryptographic techniques
- Reduces risk of fraud and hacking
5. Consensus Mechanism
- Network participants agree before adding new data
- Ensures validity of transactions
Applications of Blockchain
NCERT explains that blockchain technology has applications in various fields:
1. Cryptocurrencies
- Digital currencies such as Bitcoin
- Secure peer-to-peer transactions
2. Banking and Finance
- Secure money transfers
- Reduction of intermediaries
3. Supply Chain Management
- Tracking movement of goods
- Ensuring authenticity and transparency
4. Healthcare
- Secure storage of medical records
- Controlled data sharing
5. Governance
- Secure voting systems
- Transparent public records
Advantages of Blockchain
Blockchain offers several benefits:
- High data security
- Transparency and trust
- Reduced need for intermediaries
- Tamper-proof records
- Improved efficiency
Limitations of Blockchain
NCERT also highlights some limitations of blockchain technology:
- High energy consumption
- Scalability issues
- Complexity of implementation
- Legal and regulatory challenges
- Limited awareness and adoption
Understanding these limitations is important for balanced learning.
Blockchain and Other Emerging Trends
Blockchain works closely with:
- Cloud Computing for storage
- IoT for secure device data
- Big Data for reliable data records
Together, these technologies enhance digital trust and security.
Difference Between Traditional Database and Blockchain (Conceptual)
| Traditional Database | Blockchain |
|---|---|
| Centralised control | Decentralised control |
| Data can be modified | Data is immutable |
| Requires trust in authority | Trust built into system |
| Faster updates | More secure transactions |
Key Points to Remember (NCERT-Oriented)
- Blockchain is a distributed ledger technology
- Data is stored in blocks linked together
- Blockchain ensures transparency and security
- No central authority is required
- Blockchain has advantages and limitations