Chapter 5: AI and Contemporary Technologies
Learn how AI, robots, connected devices and online services work. Study simple definitions, everyday examples, comparisons and practice questions.
📌 How to study this chapter: Read one topic at a time, then click Mark as Read. Focus on the meaning, examples and key points. Try the questions before revealing the answers.
1 Introduction to AI
When YouTube suggests a video or your phone recognises your face, it may use Artificial Intelligence. AI helps computers recognise patterns and carry out useful tasks.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is the branch of computer science that develops machines and software able to perform tasks that normally need human intelligence, such as recognising images, understanding language, learning and solving problems.
In simple words: AI helps computers do tasks that usually need human intelligence. Some AI uses written rules, while other AI learns patterns from data. AI does not necessarily think or understand as a person does.
John McCarthy introduced the term "Artificial Intelligence" in a 1955 proposal for the Dartmouth workshop held in 1956. He is often called the Father of AI. The workshop was an important starting point for AI research.
Ordinary programs and AI programs
| Ordinary program | AI program |
|---|---|
| Follows fixed rules written by a programmer | Uses rules, learned patterns or both |
| A calculator follows set steps to calculate an answer | A trained AI model may need retraining to improve |
| Example: a calculator app | Example: Google Lens recognising a flower |
Real example: A voice assistant can recognise spoken words and respond. Speech recognition and language processing help it do this.
Extra for exams: Turing Test: Proposed by Alan Turing in 1950. A person chats with a hidden human and a hidden machine. The test asks whether the machine can give replies that the person cannot reliably distinguish from human replies. It does not prove that the machine has feelings or human understanding.
2 Goals of AI
Scientists build AI with these main goals:
Reasoning
Help machines think logically and solve problems step by step.
Learning
Let machines learn from data and past experience, and improve.
Understanding Language
Read, listen and reply in human languages like Nepali and English.
Perception
See and recognise images, faces, objects and sounds.
Problem Solving
Compare possible choices and find a useful solution.
Helping Humans
Do difficult, boring, repetitive or dangerous work for us.
Exam tip: Remember four goals as R, L, U, P: Reasoning, Learning, Understanding language, Perception.
3 Branches of AI
AI includes several connected areas. These areas often work together in one application.
Machine Learning
Computers learn patterns from training data. Example: an email spam filter.
Neural Network & Deep Learning
Neural networks use connected processing units. Deep learning uses networks with many layers. Example: face recognition.
Natural Language Processing (NLP)
Understanding and generating human language. Example: Google Translate, chatbots.
Computer Vision
Understanding images and videos. Example: face unlock, number-plate reading.
Expert System
Software that uses stored expert knowledge and rules to give advice. Example: a fault-diagnosis system.
Robotics
Designing and controlling robots. AI can help robots recognise objects and plan actions, but not every robot uses AI.
Fuzzy Logic
Handles "in-between" answers, not just yes/no. Example: smart AC and washing machines.
Exam tip: If a question asks "Which branch of AI understands human language?" the answer is NLP. "Which branch understands pictures?": Computer Vision.
4 Applications / Use of AI
Here are some common uses of AI:
| Field | Use of AI | Real example |
|---|---|---|
| Healthcare | Helping trained health professionals analyse medical images and reports | AI cancer-screening tools |
| Education | Personalised learning and AI tutors | Duolingo, Khan Academy |
| Transport | Traffic prediction, route planning and driving assistance | Navigation and driver-assistance systems |
| Banking | Fraud detection and customer chatbots | An AI system that flags unusual transactions |
| Entertainment | Recommending what you may like next | YouTube, Netflix |
| Smartphones | Face unlock, voice typing, smart camera | Voice typing and face recognition |
| Agriculture | Detecting crop disease from a photo of a leaf | Plantix-type apps used by farmers |
| Business | Sales prediction and customer support | Website chatbots |
| Security | CCTV face recognition, cyber-attack detection | Airport security systems |
In Nepal: Students in Nepal can see AI in video recommendations, voice typing and Nepali-English translation. An automatic alert alone does not prove that a system uses AI.
5 Advantages & Limitations of AI
| ✅ Advantages | ❌ Limitations |
|---|---|
| Can run for long periods when power and systems are available | Some AI systems are expensive to develop and maintain |
| Can complete suitable tasks quickly and reduce some errors | Can give wrong answers and lacks reliable human judgement |
| Does dangerous and boring jobs for us | Can replace some tasks and change the skills needed for jobs |
| Helps take better decisions using large data | Poor data or badly designed rules can produce wrong results |
| Can support users through apps and websites | Can be misused for deepfakes, cheating and scams |
| Can handle huge amounts of information at once | Needs suitable hardware, power and skilled support; some AI works offline |
Exam tip: Practise writing four advantages and four limitations in your own words. Give an example for each point.
6 Machine Learning
Machine Learning (ML) is a branch of AI in which computers learn from data and improve their performance with experience, without a programmer writing a separate rule for every possible example.
In simple words: We give the computer many examples. A learning algorithm finds patterns in them and builds a model that can make predictions.
For example, we can train a model with photos labelled "cat" and "not cat". We then test whether it can recognise cats in photos it has not seen before.
Real example: An email spam filter can learn from messages labelled "spam" and "not spam". It uses those patterns to classify new messages, but it can still make mistakes.
7 Types of Machine Learning
Three common types of machine learning are:
1. Supervised Learning
Learns from labelled data, where the correct answers are already given. This is similar to practising with worked examples.
2. Unsupervised Learning
Finds groups or patterns in unlabelled data. The examples do not include the answers the model should produce.
3. Reinforcement Learning
Learns by trial and error. A reward score gives feedback on its actions, and the system learns to increase its total reward.
| Type | Data used | How it learns | Real-life example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Supervised | Labelled (answers given) | Compares its answer with the correct answer | Email spam filter, house-price prediction |
| Unsupervised | Unlabelled (no answers) | Groups similar things together | Grouping customers by shopping habits |
| Reinforcement | Experience and feedback from actions | Learns actions that increase total reward | A game-playing AI learning to earn a higher score |
Exam tip: Supervised: labelled examples. Unsupervised: patterns without labels. Reinforcement: actions and rewards.
8 How Machine Learning Works
Machine learning follows five simple steps:
Collect Data
Gather many examples: photos, numbers, text or sound.
Prepare Data
Fix errors, handle missing values and separate training data from test data.
Train the Model
Use a learning algorithm to find patterns in the training data.
Test the Model
Check performance using test data that was not used for training.
Predict & Improve
Use the model for predictions. Review errors and retrain it when needed.
House-price example: collect old sale records → clean the data → train the model → test it on separate records with known prices → then predict the price of a new house.
9 Applications of Machine Learning
Machine learning is used in many everyday products:
| Application | What it does |
|---|---|
| Spam Detection | Moves junk emails into the Spam folder |
| Speech Recognition | Converts your voice into text (Google voice typing) |
| Self-Driving Cars | Helps automated driving systems recognise lanes, vehicles and obstacles |
| Language Translation | Google Translate between Nepali and English |
| Chatbots | Automatic replies in customer support |
| Virtual Assistants | Siri, Alexa, Google Assistant |
| Fraud Detection | Flags unusual transactions for review or further checks |
| Social Media Feeds | Facebook and TikTok decide which post you see next |
| Healthcare Diagnosis | Helping doctors identify signs of disease in medical images |
| Personalised Learning | Apps that adjust to each student's level |
| Predictive Maintenance | Predicting when a machine will break down |
| Recommendation System | Daraz and Netflix "you may also like" |
| Cybersecurity | Detecting viruses, hacking and phishing attacks |
| Weather Forecasting | Supporting forecasts using past and current weather data |
10 AI vs Machine Learning vs Deep Learning
Students often mix these three up. They are not the same thing: one sits inside the other, like boxes inside boxes.
Picture it like this: AI is the biggest box. Machine Learning is a smaller box inside AI. Deep Learning is an even smaller box inside Machine Learning.
| Artificial Intelligence (AI) | Machine Learning (ML) |
|---|---|
| The whole field of making smart machines | A part (subset) of AI |
| Aim is to perform tasks that usually need human intelligence | Aim is to learn from data |
| May or may not learn from data | Always learns from data |
| Example: an expert system, a rule-based chess program | Example: spam filter, recommendation system |
Deep Learning is a special type of machine learning that uses artificial neural networks with many layers. Training large deep learning models often needs a lot of data and computing power. These models are useful for tasks such as image and speech recognition.
Easy way to remember: All Deep Learning is Machine Learning, and all Machine Learning is AI, but not all AI is Machine Learning. See IBM's AI overview.
11 Robotics
Robotics is the branch of technology that deals with the design, construction, operation and use of robots. A robot is a programmable machine that carries out physical tasks. It may work automatically or under human control.
In simple words: A robot uses a program to control its actions. Many robots sense their surroundings, process information and then act.
Characteristics of a robot
- Sensing: it collects information using sensors and cameras.
- Movement: it can move its body, arms or wheels.
- Energy: it runs on a power source such as a battery.
- Control: a program controls its actions. Some robots use AI to adapt to changes.
Real example: A robot vacuum cleaner uses sensors to detect obstacles and clean the floor. Some models also create a map of the room.
12 Parts of a Robot
Common robot parts are listed below. The parts needed depend on the task; for example, a robot vacuum does not need an arm.
Sensors
The robot's "senses": cameras, touch, distance, temperature and sound sensors.
Controller (Brain)
A small computer that runs the program and takes decisions.
Actuators & Motors
Parts that create movement: they turn decisions into action.
Manipulator (Arm)
An arm or gripper for holding and moving objects, if the robot needs one.
Power Supply
Battery or electricity that keeps the robot running.
Program / Software
The instructions that tell the robot what to do.
Exam tip: Remember the robot's working cycle as SENSE → THINK → ACT (sensors → controller → actuators).
13 Uses, Advantages & Limitations of Robots
Where robots are used
| Field | Use of robots |
|---|---|
| Industry | Welding, painting and assembling cars |
| Medicine | Robot-assisted surgery and hospital delivery robots |
| Agriculture | Planting, spraying and harvesting crops, drones |
| Space & Defence | Mars rovers, bomb-disposal robots |
| Homes and restaurants | Robot vacuum cleaners and robots that carry food |
| Disaster rescue | Searching in earthquake rubble where humans cannot go |
| ✅ Advantages | ❌ Limitations |
|---|---|
| Repeat tasks for long periods, with charging and maintenance breaks | Very costly to buy and repair |
| Repeat suitable tasks with consistent precision | May struggle with unexpected situations outside their design |
| Can work in dangerous places (fire, mines, space) | Can replace some tasks and require workers to learn new skills |
| Increase production speed | Need electricity, maintenance and trained operators |
14 Simulating Robotics Tasks with Scratch
Scratch (scratch.mit.edu) is a free, block-based programming tool first developed at the MIT Media Lab. We can use it to simulate simple robot actions. A sprite is an on-screen character that can move and respond to instructions.
Simulation means copying the behaviour of a real thing on a computer, so we can learn and test safely without the real machine.
Example task: make a robot sprite move and avoid the edge
Procedure:
- Open scratch.mit.edu and click Create.
- Choose any sprite, or draw a robot using the Paint option.
- From the Events blocks, drag
when green flag clicked. - From Control, add a
foreverloop under it. - Inside the loop, put
move 10 stepsfrom Motion. - Still inside the loop, add
if on edge, bounceso the sprite changes direction when it touches the stage edge. - Click the green flag: the sprite moves and bounces when it touches an edge.
Extend it: Use an Events
when right arrow key pressed block with Motion point in direction 90, and a left-arrow event with direction -90. To detect an obstacle, place Sensing touching color ? inside a Control if then block. Add a turn or stop instruction inside it.
15 Generative AI
Generative AI is a type of AI that can create new content, such as text, images, music, video and computer code, based on the patterns it has learned from huge amounts of data.
In simple words: Generative AI produces content in response to a request. For example, you give it a prompt asking for a short story, and it generates a draft.
Uses of Generative AI
- Writing essays, emails, stories, poems and computer code.
- Creating images, posters and art from a text description.
- Summarising long documents into short notes.
- Answering questions and tutoring students.
- Translating and improving writing.
- Making presentations, quizzes and lesson plans for teachers.
Important warning: Generative AI can sometimes present invented or unsupported information as fact (called an AI hallucination). Always check important facts from a book or trusted website.
16 Popular Generative AI Tools
ChatGPT
Made by OpenAI. A popular AI chatbot for text, answers, images and code.
Claude
Made by Anthropic. An AI assistant for writing, analysis and coding.
Gemini
Made by Google. An AI assistant for questions, writing and other tasks. Some Google apps also include Gemini features.
Microsoft Copilot
Made by Microsoft. An AI assistant. Microsoft also offers Copilot features in supported work apps.
DeepSeek
An AI assistant and family of models from DeepSeek, used for tasks such as answering questions and coding.
Midjourney / DALL·E
Tools that create pictures and artwork from a text description.
| Tool | Company | Mainly used for |
|---|---|---|
| ChatGPT | OpenAI | Text, answers, code, images |
| Claude | Anthropic | Writing, long documents, coding |
| Gemini | Questions, writing and supported Google app features | |
| Copilot | Microsoft | Questions, writing and supported Microsoft app features |
| DALL·E / Midjourney | OpenAI / Midjourney | Image generation |
17 Writing a Good Prompt
A prompt is the instruction, question or other input that we give an AI tool to guide its response. It can include text, an image or audio.
A clear prompt helps AI give a more useful response. Even a clear prompt can produce an incorrect answer, so check the result.
| ❌ Weak prompt | ✅ Good prompt |
|---|---|
| "Write about AI." | "Write a 100-word paragraph on Artificial Intelligence for a Class 10 student in simple English, with two Nepali examples." |
| "Nepal essay." | "Write a 150-word essay on tourism in Nepal with an introduction, three points and a conclusion." |
Four rules for a good prompt
- Be clear: say exactly what you want.
- Give context: who is it for, and why.
- Set the format: length, points, table, paragraph.
- Give an example: show the style you expect.
Honest use: Use AI to understand a topic and then write in your own words. Follow your teacher's rules and acknowledge AI help when required. Do not submit AI-generated work as if you did it entirely yourself.
18 Integrated AI Tools
Integrated AI tools are AI features built directly inside the apps we already use, so we can use AI while doing our usual work. Features may depend on the account, plan, device and region.
| App | AI feature inside it |
|---|---|
| Google Docs | Helps write, fixes grammar and summarises text |
| Gmail | Smart Reply, sentence auto-complete, spam filtering |
| Google Search | AI-written answer summary at the top of results |
| Canva | AI image generation, Magic Write, background remover |
| MS Office | Copilot writes documents and analyses Excel data |
| Google Photos | Face grouping, search by object, Magic Eraser |
| Smartphone camera | Scene detection, night mode, portrait blur |
| Facebook / TikTok | Decides which posts and videos appear in your feed |
19 Ethics in AI
AI ethics means using and building AI in a fair, honest, safe and responsible way that does not harm people.
Main ethical concerns:
- Bias: unfair data or design choices can lead to unfair results. Example: a hiring AI that rejects women because it learned from old records.
- Honesty and fake content: deepfake videos and AI-written fake news can mislead people.
- Jobs: AI may replace human workers in some fields.
- Responsibility: if a self-driving car causes an accident, who is to blame: the owner, the company or the programmer?
- Transparency: people should be told when they are talking to an AI, not a human.
- Academic honesty: students should use AI to learn, not to copy.
Golden rule: AI should help humans, never harm, cheat or deceive them.
20 Privacy in AI
Privacy is your right to keep your personal information under your own control and to decide who may see it.
AI tools may process information you provide, such as messages, photos or voice recordings. What they collect and store depends on the tool and its settings. Misuse or leaks can expose private information.
How to protect your privacy
- Do not share passwords, citizenship numbers, bank details or private photos with a general-purpose AI chatbot.
- Read app permissions carefully before tapping "Allow".
- Turn off location and microphone access for apps that do not need them.
- Use strong passwords and two-step verification.
- Think before posting: anything online can stay forever (your digital footprint).
21 Security in AI
Security means protecting AI systems, and the data inside them, from hackers, viruses and misuse. AI can both strengthen security and threaten it.
| ✅ AI helps security | ❌ AI threatens security |
|---|---|
| Detects viruses and cyber-attacks very fast | Creates realistic fake voices and deepfake videos |
| Spots fraud in banking transactions | Writes convincing phishing messages automatically |
| Monitors networks 24 hours a day | Can guess weak passwords quickly |
| Blocks spam and harmful websites | Can spread misinformation at large scale |
Stay safe: If you get a call or video that "looks like" a relative asking for money urgently, verify it by calling them back on their known number. A familiar-looking face or voice is not proof of identity.
22 Internet of Things (IoT)
Internet of Things (IoT) is a network of physical objects with software and network connections that collect or exchange data. Devices may connect to the internet directly or through another device, such as a phone or hub.
In simple words: IoT connects everyday devices, such as lights and watches, so they can share data or receive commands. Sensors collect information, while actuators carry out actions.
The term "Internet of Things" was first used by Kevin Ashton in 1999.
Real example: A connected smartwatch can count steps, measure heart rate and send readings through a phone to an online service. A smart bulb at home can be switched on from an app while you are still at school.
23 How IoT Works
A simple IoT system can be explained using four main parts:
1. Sensors / Devices
Collect data from the real world: temperature, motion, light, heartbeat.
2. Connectivity
Connect devices using Wi-Fi, Bluetooth or mobile networks. A phone or hub may provide internet access.
3. Data Processing
A device, local computer or cloud server processes data and decides what action to take.
4. User Interface
You see the result on an app and can give a command back to the device.
Smart-farming example: a soil sensor measures moisture (1) → sends it over the mobile network (2) → the server sees the soil is dry (3) → the farmer gets an alert on their phone and turns on the water pump (4).
24 Advantages of IoT
Remote Control
Control supported devices remotely when the required connections are available.
Saves Time
Automates daily tasks like lights, watering and alarms.
Saves Energy
Smart devices switch themselves off when not needed.
Useful Data
Collects real-time data that helps in better decisions.
Better Safety
Smart cameras, smoke alarms and door locks improve security.
Lower Cost
Less waste of electricity, water and manpower.
25 Limitations of IoT
- Security risk: connected devices can be hacked and misused.
- Privacy risk: some devices collect sensitive data, such as location or camera footage.
- Cost: buying, installing and maintaining connected devices can be costly.
- Internet dependent: remote access and online features may stop during an outage, although local functions may continue.
- Complexity: managing many devices of different brands is difficult.
- Power dependent: a power cut or empty battery can stop a device unless it has backup power.
Exam tip: Explain the difference: security protects devices and data from attacks; privacy concerns how personal information is collected and used.
26 Applications of IoT
| Area | IoT application |
|---|---|
| Smart Home | Smart lights, fans, CCTV, door locks, smart TV |
| Health | Smartwatches, fitness bands, patient monitors |
| Agriculture | Soil moisture and weather sensors for smart farming |
| Transport | GPS vehicle tracking, smart traffic lights |
| Industry | Machine sensors, automatic production lines |
| Smart City | Smart parking, street lights, waste management |
| Environment | Air-quality monitoring, flood and landslide warning |
| Retail | Smart shelves and automatic stock counting |
In Nepal: Possible uses include connected air-quality sensors, bus trackers and river-level sensors that send flood alerts.
27 Virtual Reality (VR)
Virtual Reality (VR) is a computer-generated three-dimensional environment that feels real. Using a VR headset, the user feels present inside that digital world.
In simple words: In immersive VR, a headset fills your view with a virtual world. You can look around and interact with that world.
What a VR system needs
- Headset (HMD): shows a slightly different image to each eye to create a sense of depth. HMD means head-mounted display.
- Sensors / trackers: follow your head and hand movements.
- Controllers or gloves: let you touch and pick up virtual objects.
- Processing hardware: creates the virtual scene. It may be built into the headset or provided by a connected computer or phone.
Real example: VR can let learners practise a flight or explore a model of the human heart without using a real aircraft or patient.
28 Advantages & Limitations of VR
| ✅ Advantages | ❌ Limitations |
|---|---|
| Safe practice and training (pilots, doctors, drivers) | Headsets and computers are expensive |
| Makes learning interesting and easy to remember | Can cause dizziness, headache and eye strain |
| Virtual tours of places you cannot visit | Long use cuts a person off from real life |
| Simulate dangerous experiments with less physical risk | Needs suitable hardware; online experiences also need internet |
| Fun and highly immersive gaming | Suitable learning content and repair services may be hard to find |
29 Augmented Reality (AR)
Augmented Reality (AR) adds computer-generated images, sounds or information on top of the real world, which you still see around you.
In simple words: VR takes you into a new world. AR brings the digital world into your world, usually through a phone camera or smart glasses.
Examples: Instagram and Snapchat face filters, Pokémon GO, Google Maps Live View arrows on the street, and apps that let you place a virtual sofa in your own room before buying it.
Exam tip: AR = real world + digital objects. VR = fully digital world.
30 Extended Reality (XR) & Types
Extended Reality (XR) is a general term for technologies that create virtual environments or combine digital content with the real world. It includes VR, AR and MR.
VR: Virtual Reality
An immersive digital environment that fills the user's view.
AR: Augmented Reality
Digital objects are added on top of the real world.
MR: Mixed Reality
Digital objects are placed in the real environment and respond to its surfaces or the user's actions.
| Point | VR | AR | MR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Real world visible? | No | Yes | Yes |
| How digital content is shown | Surrounds the user in a virtual scene | Adds content to a real-world view | Places content that responds to the real environment |
| Device needed | VR headset | Phone or AR glasses | MR headset |
| Example | VR games, VR flight training | Pokémon GO, Instagram filters | A virtual model anchored to a real desk |
Exam tip: Remember XR = VR + AR + MR.
31 Applications of XR
| Field | XR application |
|---|---|
| Education | Virtual science labs and 3D models of the human body |
| Gaming | Immersive VR and AR games |
| Medicine | Surgery training, phobia and pain therapy |
| Shopping | Trying clothes, spectacles or furniture virtually |
| Tourism | Virtual visits to heritage sites and mountain landscapes |
| Engineering | Walking through a 3D building design before construction |
| Military | Safe combat and flight training simulations |
| Real estate | Virtual house tours for buyers living abroad |
32 Cloud Computing
Cloud computing is the delivery of shared computing resources, such as storage, software and processing power, over a network, usually the internet, when needed.
In simple words: The "cloud" lets you use resources on remote servers. Depending on the service, access may be free, subscription-based or charged by usage.
When you save photos to Google Drive, write in Google Docs or watch YouTube, remote servers handle storage or part of the processing. Your own device still displays the content and does some processing.
Main characteristics
- On-demand: take the service whenever you need it.
- Network access: use a compatible device and an available network connection.
- Scalable: increase or decrease storage and power easily.
- Measured use and resource sharing: the service tracks usage for each customer. Shared computing resources serve multiple customers with separate access controls.
Real example: If backup is enabled and completed in Google Photos, you can access the backed-up photos after losing your phone by signing in on another device. Keep your account secure. For cloud definitions, see NIST's cloud computing guide.
33 Advantages & Limitations of Cloud Computing
Access Anywhere
Open online files on a compatible device with internet access and the right permissions.
Saves Money
No need to buy expensive servers and hardware.
Scalable
Get more storage or power the moment you need it.
Backup & Safety
Backup features can reduce data loss when enabled and checked. Important files still need a backup plan.
Collaboration
Many people can work on one file at the same time.
Auto Updates
Providers update hosted software. Apps installed on your device may still need updates.
Limitations
| Limitation | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Needs the internet | Online features need a connection; downloaded or offline-enabled files may still work |
| Security and privacy | Your data is stored on someone else's server |
| Less control | You depend on the service provider's rules |
| Ongoing cost | Paid plans may charge by subscription or usage |
| Downtime | Provider outages can make some or all services unavailable |
34 Types of Cloud Computing
Cloud is classified in two ways: by who can use it (deployment) and by what it provides (service).
A. By deployment (who can use it)
| Type | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Public Cloud | Services offered to many customers; each customer's data can remain private | Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure |
| Private Cloud | Cloud resources reserved for one organisation; security still depends on how they are managed | A bank's own internal cloud |
| Hybrid Cloud | Connected cloud environments, often public and private, that share data or workloads | Sensitive data private, website public |
| Community Cloud | Shared by several organisations with a common purpose | A cloud shared by government hospitals |
B. By service (what it provides)
| Service | Full form | What you get | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| IaaS | Infrastructure as a Service | Servers, storage and network | Amazon EC2, Google Compute Engine |
| PaaS | Platform as a Service | A ready platform to build and run your own apps | Google App Engine, Heroku |
| SaaS | Software as a Service | Ready-made software accessed through a browser or app | Gmail, Google Docs, Canva |
Pizza trick to remember: IaaS = you get the kitchen and cook yourself. PaaS = you get the base and add toppings. SaaS = the pizza arrives ready to eat.
35 Applications of Cloud Computing
| Application | Example |
|---|---|
| Data storage | Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive |
| Ready-made software (SaaS) | Gmail, Google Docs, Canva |
| Backup | Automatic photo and contact backup |
| Collaboration | Many students editing one document together |
| Streaming services | YouTube, Netflix, Spotify |
| Game streaming | Playing heavy games without a costly computer |
| Business software | Online billing, accounting and school software |
| Website hosting | Websites and apps running on cloud servers |
| AI services | ChatGPT and other AI tools run on cloud servers |
36 E-commerce
E-commerce (electronic commerce) is the buying and selling of goods and services, and the transfer of money and data, over the internet.
In simple words: You buy or sell through a website or app. Physical goods may be delivered, while digital goods, such as an e-book, may be downloaded.
Features of e-commerce
- Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
- Can reach customers beyond the local area, depending on delivery and service coverage.
- Payment can be online (eSewa, Khalti, card) or cash on delivery.
- Products are shown with photos, description, price and reviews.
Real example: A seller offering a phone through Daraz is an example of e-commerce in Nepal.
37 How E-commerce Works (Technology)
An e-commerce system is built from five main parts:
Website / App
The online shop where products are displayed.
Shopping Cart
Holds the items a customer has selected before paying.
Payment Gateway
Securely sends payment information for processing. Shops may offer wallets, bank payments or cards.
Database
Stores products, prices, stock, customers and orders.
Delivery / Logistics
Packs and delivers the product to the customer's address.
Steps of an online order
- Customer searches and selects a product.
- Product is added to the shopping cart.
- Customer enters the delivery address.
- Payment is made online, or cash on delivery is chosen.
- The seller receives and confirms the order.
- The product is packed and delivered, and the customer may leave a review.
38 Traditional Commerce vs E-commerce
| Traditional Commerce | E-commerce |
|---|---|
| Buying from a physical shop | Buying online from anywhere |
| Open only during shop hours | Open 24 hours, 7 days a week |
| Limited to the local area | Can reach customers worldwide |
| Payment may use cash, cards or QR codes | Online payment or cash on delivery |
| You can see and touch the product first | You see only photos and descriptions |
| In-stock goods can often be taken home immediately | Physical goods usually need delivery; digital goods may arrive instantly |
| Costs may include shop rent, stock and staff | May save shop rent, but still has website, marketing and delivery costs |
| Face-to-face relationship with the seller | Contact through chat, email or phone |
39 Benefits & Limitations of E-commerce
| ✅ Benefits | ❌ Limitations |
|---|---|
| Shop from home at any time | You cannot touch or try the product first |
| More choice and easy price comparison | Risk of online fraud and fake products |
| Sellers reach customers worldwide | Needs internet and digital literacy |
| May reduce the need for a physical shop | Delivery delays and difficult returns |
| Easy and fast digital payment | Privacy and data-security concerns |
| Saves travel time and cost | Weak delivery service in remote villages |
40 Types of E-commerce
| Type | Full form | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| B2C | Business to Consumer | A business sells directly to a customer | A business selling you a phone through Daraz |
| B2B | Business to Business | One business sells to another business | A wholesaler supplying a shop through an online order |
| C2C | Consumer to Consumer | One person sells to another person | Selling a used bike on Hamrobazar |
| C2B | Consumer to Business | A person sells a service to a company | An individual offering logo design to a company online |
| B2G | Business to Government | A business supplies goods to government | A company bidding on an e-bidding portal |
| G2C | Government to Citizen | Online government services, usually studied under e-governance | Paying tax or licence fees online |
Exam tip: For commercial transactions, read who provides and who receives the product or service. B2C means business to consumer. G2C services are usually classified as e-governance, even when fees are paid online.
41 E-commerce and E-payment in Nepal
People in Nepal use websites and apps to order goods and services. E-payment means paying electronically, such as through a wallet, bank app or card.
Popular e-commerce platforms
| Platform | What it offers |
|---|---|
| Daraz | Online marketplace for electronics, clothing and other goods |
| Retailer websites | Online orders from individual shops and brands |
| Food-ordering apps | Online food ordering and delivery |
| Hamrobazar | Buying and selling used items between people (C2C) |
| Grocery and gift websites | Groceries and general shopping |
Digital payment (e-payment) in Nepal
| Service | Type | Used for |
|---|---|---|
| eSewa, Khalti by IME | Digital wallet | Recharge, bills, online shopping |
| connectIPS | Bank transfer system | Sending money between bank accounts |
| Fonepay QR | QR payment | Paying at shops by scanning a code |
| Debit / Credit card | Card payment | Online and in-shop payment |
Challenges in Nepal: checking whether sellers are trustworthy, reaching remote delivery addresses, learning digital skills and understanding refund policies. Check the total price, seller details and return conditions before ordering. Official service examples: Khalti by IME and connectIPS.
42 E-Governance and its Types
E-Governance is the use of information and communication technology (ICT) by the government to deliver its services and information to citizens, businesses and its own offices electronically.
In simple words: Using a phone or computer to access government information and services. Some services still require an office visit for documents, identity checks or other steps.
Types of e-governance
| Type | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| G2C: Government to Citizen | Services given to ordinary people | Online passport form, SEE results |
| G2B: Government to Business | Services given to companies | Online company registration, e-bidding |
| G2G: Government to Government | One government office serving another | Data sharing between ministries |
| G2E: Government to Employee | Services for government staff | Online salary, leave and pension records |
43 E-Governance in Nepal
Nepal has been moving many government services online to make them faster and more transparent.
Examples in Nepal
- Nagarik App: many government services in one mobile app.
- Passport pre-enrolment and PAN application services. Some steps require verification or a visit.
- Online driving licence applications and appointment information.
- Electronic payment of taxes, electricity and water bills.
- Online results and notices (SEE, NEB, Loksewa).
- Online company registration and public procurement portals.
| ✅ Advantages | ❌ Limitations |
|---|---|
| Can reduce office visits and waiting time | Needs internet access and digital skills |
| Makes records and procedures easier to track | Risk of hacking and data leaks |
| Many forms and information pages can be accessed outside office hours | Many rural areas still lack internet |
| Reduces paperwork and cost | Server downtime stops the service |
| Can improve access when services are inclusive and reliable | Older citizens may need help to use it |
44 E-Education
E-Education (e-learning) is teaching and learning through electronic and internet technologies instead of only inside a physical classroom.
Students can learn through live classes, recorded videos, digital books and learning apps. E-education can support classroom teaching as well as learning from home.
| Tool | Use |
|---|---|
| Zoom / Google Meet / MS Teams | Live online classes |
| YouTube | Free video lessons in Nepali and English |
| Google Classroom / Moodle | Assignments, notes and quizzes |
| E-Pustakalaya | Free Nepali digital library |
| Khan Academy, Coursera | Lessons and courses; some courses or certificates require payment |
| ✅ Advantages | ❌ Limitations |
|---|---|
| Study saved lessons at a convenient time; live classes have fixed times | Needs a device and power; online activities also need internet |
| Cheaper and more flexible | Less face-to-face interaction with teachers |
| Recorded lessons can be watched again | Distraction, screen fatigue and eye strain |
| One teacher can reach thousands of students | Practical and lab work is difficult online |
45 E-Medicine and Telemedicine
E-Medicine uses digital technology to support healthcare, such as electronic reports and appointments. Telemedicine is the part that provides clinical care from a distance, for example a doctor consultation by video call.
This is very useful in Nepal, where many villages are far from a hospital. A health worker in a remote district can show reports to a specialist doctor in Kathmandu through a video call.
| Service | What it does |
|---|---|
| Online consultation | Video call with a doctor from home |
| E-prescription | Digital prescription sent to your phone |
| Online reports | Lab reports viewed on a website or app |
| Health apps | Track steps, heart rate, medicine reminders |
| Online appointment | Book a doctor's time without visiting |
| ✅ Advantages | ❌ Limitations |
|---|---|
| Health service reaches remote villages | Some examinations, tests and treatments require an in-person visit |
| Saves travel time and money | Needs good internet and devices |
| Can connect patients or local health workers with distant specialists | Patient data privacy is a concern |
Together they are called e-services: e-commerce, e-governance, e-education, e-medicine and e-banking use digital technology to provide services. Telemedicine supports care but cannot replace every hospital visit.
📝 Exercises & Quiz
Test what you've learned! Click Show Answer to check yourself.
⚡ Quick Revision: One Line Each
| Term | One-line definition to memorise |
|---|---|
| Artificial Intelligence | The field of making computers perform tasks that usually need human intelligence. |
| Machine Learning | Part of AI in which machines learn from data without being programmed for every step. |
| Deep Learning | Machine learning that uses multi-layer artificial neural networks. |
| Generative AI | AI that creates new content such as text, images, audio and code. |
| Prompt | An instruction, question or other input that guides an AI response. |
| Robotics | Branch of technology that designs, builds and uses robots. |
| IoT | Network of everyday physical devices connected to the internet that share data. |
| Virtual Reality | A computer-created 3D environment that users can explore; immersive VR fills their view. |
| Augmented Reality | Digital objects added on top of the real world. |
| Extended Reality | Umbrella term covering VR, AR and MR. |
| Cloud Computing | Accessing shared storage, software or processing power over a network when needed. |
| E-commerce | Buying and selling of goods and services over the internet. |
| E-Governance | Delivering government services to citizens electronically using ICT. |
| E-Education | Teaching and learning through electronic and internet technologies. |
| E-Medicine | Using digital technology to support healthcare, including remote care. |
📚 Short Terms / Glossary
AI
Computer systems that perform tasks usually needing human intelligence.
Machine Learning
A part of AI that learns patterns from training data.
Deep Learning
ML using many-layered neural networks.
Neural Network
Connected processing units, loosely inspired by the brain, that learn patterns.
NLP
AI branch that understands human language.
Computer Vision
AI branch that understands images and video.
Expert System
Software that advises like a human expert.
Generative AI
AI that creates new text, images and code.
Prompt
The instruction given to a generative AI tool.
Hallucination
An AI response that presents invented or unsupported information as fact.
Deepfake
AI-generated or altered images, video or audio that convincingly imitate a person.
Robot
A programmable machine that carries out physical tasks.
Sensor
Part that collects data from the real world.
Actuator
Part that creates movement in a robot.
Simulation
Copying real behaviour on a computer.
IoT
Everyday devices connected to the internet.
VR
A fully computer-created 3D world.
AR
Digital objects added onto the real world.
MR
Real and virtual objects interacting together.
XR
Umbrella term for VR, AR and MR.
Cloud Computing
Using computing services over the internet.
SaaS
Ready-made software used over the internet.
Payment Gateway
A system that securely sends online payment details for processing.
E-commerce
Buying and selling online.
E-Governance
Government services given electronically.
E-Education
Teaching and learning with electronic tools, online or offline.
E-Medicine
Healthcare supported by digital technology.
Digital Footprint
The trail of data you leave online.
🔤 Full Forms (Click "Reveal" to check)
AI Artificial Intelligence
ML Machine Learning
DL Deep Learning
NLP Natural Language Processing
ANN Artificial Neural Network
IoT Internet of Things
VR Virtual Reality
AR Augmented Reality
MR Mixed Reality
XR Extended Reality
HMD Head-Mounted Display
SaaS Software as a Service
IaaS Infrastructure as a Service
PaaS Platform as a Service
B2C Business to Consumer
B2B Business to Business
C2C Consumer to Consumer
C2B Consumer to Business
G2C Government to Citizen
G2B Government to Business
ICT Information and Communication Technology
QR Quick Response (code)
✅ Choose the Correct Answer (MCQ)
1. Who is known as the Father of Artificial Intelligence?
2. Machine Learning is a part of:
3. Which learning approach is defined by training on examples with known answers?
4. Which type of learning uses actions and reward feedback?
5. Which branch of AI helps a computer understand human language?
6. ChatGPT, Claude and Gemini are examples of:
7. The instruction we give to a generative AI tool is called a:
8. Which part of a robot works as its brain?
9. Which free block-based tool can be used to simulate robotics tasks?
10. A smartwatch sending readings through your phone to an online service is an example of:
11. Which one is NOT a part of an IoT system?
12. Which technology adds digital objects on top of the real world?
13. XR is an umbrella term that includes:
14. Gmail and Google Docs are examples of which cloud service model?
15. A cloud used by only one organisation is called:
16. A business selling you a mobile phone through Daraz is which type of e-commerce?
17. Selling your used bicycle to another person on Hamrobazar is an example of:
18. Which of the following is a digital wallet used in Nepal?
19. The Nagarik App of Nepal is an example of:
20. Consulting a doctor through a video call is an example of:
✍️ Short Answer Questions
1 What is Artificial Intelligence? Write any two applications.
Answer: AI is the branch of computer science that develops systems to perform tasks usually needing human intelligence, such as recognising images, understanding language and solving problems. Two applications are voice assistants and video recommendation systems.
2 Write any four goals of AI.
Answer: Four goals are: (1) reasoning and solving problems logically; (2) learning from data; (3) understanding human language; and (4) recognising images, objects and sounds.
3 Name any four branches of AI.
Answer: Four areas are Machine Learning, Natural Language Processing (NLP), Computer Vision and Expert Systems. Other related areas include neural networks, fuzzy logic and AI in robotics.
4 What is Machine Learning? Explain three common types with one example each.
Answer: Machine Learning is a branch of AI that learns patterns from data instead of using a separate written rule for every example. Three common types are: (1) supervised learning, such as classifying labelled spam emails; (2) unsupervised learning, such as grouping customers by shopping habits; and (3) reinforcement learning, such as a game-playing system learning from reward scores.
5 Explain how machine learning works.
Answer: The main steps are: (1) collect data; (2) clean and prepare it, keeping test data separate; (3) train a model; (4) test it on data not used for training; and (5) use it for predictions, review errors and retrain when needed.
6 Differentiate between AI and Machine Learning.
Answer: AI is the broad field of performing tasks that usually need human intelligence. Machine Learning is a part of AI that learns patterns from data. AI may use written rules, learned patterns or both. A rule-based expert system is AI; a trained spam classifier uses Machine Learning.
7 What is Generative AI? Name any three generative AI tools.
Answer: Generative AI creates content, such as text, images, audio or code, using patterns learned during training. Three examples are ChatGPT, Claude and Gemini.
8 What is a prompt? Write any two rules for writing a good prompt.
Answer: A prompt is an instruction, question or other input that guides an AI response. Two useful rules are: state the task clearly and specify the audience and output format. A clear prompt does not guarantee a correct answer.
9 Write any four ethical concerns of using AI.
Answer: Four concerns are: (1) biased or unfair results; (2) fake content that misleads people; (3) misuse of personal data; and (4) responsibility for mistakes. Other concerns include changes to jobs and academic dishonesty.
10 What is a robot? Write its main parts.
Answer: A robot is a programmable machine that carries out physical tasks, automatically or under human control. Common parts include a controller, actuators or motors, a power supply, software and sensors. Some robots also have an arm or gripper.
11 Write the procedure to make a robot sprite move and bounce in Scratch.
Answer: Open scratch.mit.edu and click Create. Choose or draw a sprite. Add "when green flag clicked", followed by a "forever" loop. Inside the loop, add "move 10 steps" and "if on edge, bounce". Click the green flag to run the program.
12 What is IoT? Write four main parts of a simple IoT system and any two applications.
Answer: IoT connects physical devices so they can collect or exchange data, directly through the internet or through a phone or hub. Four main parts are devices or sensors, connectivity, data processing and a user interface. Two applications are remote light control and soil-moisture monitoring.
13 Differentiate between VR and AR.
Answer: Immersive VR fills the user's view with a computer-generated world, usually through a headset. AR adds digital content to a view of the real world. Examples are a VR training game and a phone app that shows virtual furniture in a room.
14 What is cloud computing? Write any two advantages and any two limitations.
Answer: Cloud computing provides shared storage, software or processing power over a network when needed. Two advantages are easy collaboration and flexible storage capacity. Two limitations are dependence on network or provider availability and security or privacy risks. Backups must be enabled and checked.
15 Explain IaaS, PaaS and SaaS with one example each.
Answer: IaaS means Infrastructure as a Service: computing resources such as virtual servers, for example Amazon EC2. PaaS means Platform as a Service: a managed platform for building and running apps, for example Google App Engine. SaaS means Software as a Service: ready-to-use online software, for example Google Docs.
16 What is e-commerce? Write any two benefits and any two limitations.
Answer: E-commerce is buying and selling goods or services over the internet. Two benefits are convenient ordering and easy price comparison. Two limitations are the risk of fraud and delivery delays for physical goods.
17 Differentiate between traditional commerce and e-commerce (any four points).
Answer: (1) Traditional commerce usually takes place in a physical shop; e-commerce takes place online. (2) A shop has opening hours; online orders can often be placed at any time. (3) A shop mainly serves nearby customers; online sellers may reach wider areas. (4) Shoppers can inspect goods in person; online buyers usually rely on photos, descriptions and reviews.
18 What is e-governance? Write its four types and any two examples from Nepal.
Answer: E-governance uses ICT to provide government services and information and support public administration. Its four types are Government to Citizen (G2C), Government to Business (G2B), Government to Government (G2G) and Government to Employee (G2E). Examples in Nepal include the Nagarik App and passport pre-enrolment services.
19 What is e-education? Write any two tools used for it.
Answer: E-education is teaching and learning with electronic tools, online or offline. Google Meet supports live online classes, and Google Classroom helps teachers share assignments and learning materials.
20 What is e-medicine? Why is it useful in Nepal?
Answer: E-medicine uses digital technology to support healthcare. Telemedicine provides clinical care from a distance, such as a doctor consultation by video call. It can help people in remote parts of Nepal reach specialists and reduce travel, although some care still requires an in-person visit.
🛠️ Practical Ideas (Try it yourself)
- Try a generative AI tool: ask ChatGPT or Gemini to explain photosynthesis to a Class 10 student, then check the answer against your textbook and note any mistake.
- Prompt practice: write one weak prompt and one good prompt for the same task, and compare the two answers you get.
- Build a Scratch robot that moves forward, bounces off the edges, and can be steered with the arrow keys.
- Spot the AI: list five AI features found in phones or apps and write which branch of AI each one belongs to.
- Cloud in action: upload a sample document to Google Drive, then open it on another device using your account.
- Collaborate: create one Google Doc and edit it with three friends at the same time. Note what happens.
- Explore e-governance: visit an official government website and list the online services you find. Note which steps still need an office visit.
- Compare prices: compare one product on Daraz and in a local shop. Include delivery charges and return conditions; you do not need to buy it.
- Design an IoT idea: draw a simple smart-home plan for your house showing which devices you would connect and why.
- Class debate: "AI will create more jobs than it destroys." Prepare three points for and three points against.