Available courses

Computer Science

An Operating system forms the core of any computer device. The functioning and processing of a computer system can come to hold without an operating system.

In this class, we shall discuss in detail the Operating System, along with its various types and functions. The different features and history of the development of OS have also been discussed.

To comprehend Computer Knowledge and its key features, understanding this concept becomes a key factor. Thus, one must carefully go through the various aspects related to this topic to understand it well.

Table of Contents:

History of the Operating System

Types of Operating System

Functions of Operating System

List of Common Operating Systems

Sample Questions on Operating System

Before moving forward, let us first know What is an Operating System?

An Operating System is the interface between the computer hardware and the end-user. Processing of data, running applications, file management and handling the memory is all managed by the computer OS. Windows, Mac, Android etc. Are examples of Operating systems which are generally used nowadays.

All modern computing devices including Laptops, Tablet, mobile phones, etc. comprise an Operating System which helps in the smooth working of the device.

To strengthen your command over Computer Awareness, refer to the links below and learn more about the various terms, programs and applications:

Microsoft Office

Computer Networks

Components of Computer

Types of Computer

High-Level Computer Languages

Hardware and Software

History of the Operating System

It took years to evolve the Operating Systems and make them as modernised and advanced as they are today. Given below are the details about the evolution and history of Operating systems.

Initially, the computers made did not have an Operating system and to run each program a different code was used. This had made the processing of data more complex and time taking

In 1956, the first operating systems were developed by General Motors to run a single IBM computer

It was in the 1960s that IBM had started installing OS in the devices they launched

The first version of the UNIX operating system was launched in the 1960s and was written in the programming language C

Later on, Microsoft came up with their OS on the request of IBM

Today, all major computer devices have an operating system, each performing the same functions but with slightly different features

To read more about MS Windows, the Operating system released by Microsoft, visit the linked article. 

Related Links

Computer Shortcut Keys Computer Abbreviations

Computer Virus Web Browsers

Components of Computer Storage Devices

Types of Operating System

Given below are the different types of Operating System along with brief information about each of them:

1. Batch Operating System

There is no direct communication between the computer and the OS

There is an intermediate, the Operator, which needs to distribute the work into batches and sort similar jobs

Multiple users can use it

Can easily manager a large amount of work

2. Real-Time Operating System

It has a data processing system

The processing time is very small between the user’s command and the output

Used in fields where the response needs to be quick and rapid

3. Time-Sharing Operating System

Multiple people at various terminals can use a program at the same time 

The main motive is to minimize the response time

4. Distributed Operating System

When two or more systems are connected to each other and one can open files which are not present in their system but in other devices connected in the network

Its usage has now increased over the years

They use multiple central processors to serve real-time applications

Failure of one system does not affect the other systems connected in the network

5. Embedded Operating System

These special Operating systems are built into larger systems

They generally are limited to single specific functions like an ATM

6. Network Operating System

They have one main server which is connected to other client servers

All the management of files, processing of data, access to sharing files, etc. are performed over this small network

It is also a secure operating system for working with multiple users

7. Mobile Operating System

With the advancement in the field of technology, smartphones now are released with an Operating system. 

They are designed in a manner that they can help a small device work efficiently

To read in detail about the Fundamentals of Computer, visit the linked article.

Difference Between Computer-related Articles

Difference Between Search Engine and Web Browser Difference Between Hardware and Software

Difference Between WWW and Internet Difference Between RAM and ROM

Difference Between Notepad and WordPad Difference Between Firewall and Antivirus

Functions of Operating System

Given below are the various functions of an Operating System:

It helps with memory management. It keeps a track of the files being saved in the Main memory and the primary memory of the computer device

Whenever a computer is turned on, the Operating system automatically starts to work. Thus, the booting and rebooting process of a computer device is also an important function of the OS

It provides a user interface

Managing of basic peripheral devices is done by the operating system

Using the password protection option of an operating system, the data in the device can be kept secure

It coordinates with the software and the user

Easy navigation and organisation of files and programs are managed by the OS

Any kind of program which needs to be run through the system is done by the operating system

If any kind of error or bug is found during the program is detected using the operating system

Other Related Links

Input and Output Devices Important Computer-related Terms

Basics of Cloud Computing Difference Between IPV4 and IPV 6

Difference Between MS Excel and MS Word MS PowerPoint

List of Common Operating Systems

Given below is a list of commonly used Operating systems along with their year of release. 

List of Operating Systems

Name of the OS Release Date

Android 2008

iOS 2007

Windows 1985

Mac OS 2001

MS-DOS 1981

Chrome OS 2011

Windows Phone 2010

Blackberry OS 1999

Firefox OS 2013

UNIX 1969

Introduction to Econometrics 2024/2025

Introduction to Econometrics

Course Description: This course provides an introduction to econometric methods and their application in educational research and policy analysis. Econometrics involves the use of statistical techniques to analyze economic and social data, allowing researchers to test theories, evaluate policies, and make informed decisions.

In this course, students will learn the fundamental concepts and techniques of econometrics, including regression analysis, hypothesis testing, and model specification. The course will cover both basic linear regression models and more advanced topics such as instrumental variables, panel data analysis, and limited dependent variable models.

Throughout the course, students will gain hands-on experience using statistical software to estimate and interpret econometric models. Emphasis will be placed on the practical application of econometric methods in educational research, including topics such as the determinants of student achievement, the evaluation of educational interventions, and the analysis of educational policies.

By the end of the course, students will be able to:

  1. Understand the theoretical foundations of econometric modeling
  2. Formulate econometric models to address research questions in education
  3. Estimate and interpret regression models using statistical software
  4. Critically evaluate the assumptions and limitations of econometric models
  5. Communicate econometric findings effectively to diverse audiences

This course is designed for graduate students in education, educational policy, and related fields who are interested in developing quantitative research skills and applying econometric methods to address real-world educational challenges.

Prerequisites: Introductory courses in statistics and microeconomics (or equivalent background knowledge).

Introduction to Solar Electricity-SE101

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to solar electricity, covering the fundamental principles, technologies, and applications of solar energy conversion into electrical power. Students will gain a strong understanding of the physics behind solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, including the properties of solar radiation, semiconductor materials, and the operation of solar cells.

The course will cover the following key topics:

  1. Solar Energy Fundamentals:
    • Solar radiation and its characteristics
    • Solar spectrum and irradiance
    • Earth-sun geometry and solar angles
  2. Photovoltaic (PV) Cell Principles:
    • Semiconductor materials and properties
    • PN junction and the photovoltaic effect
    • Solar cell structure and operation
  3. Solar Cell Technologies:
    • Crystalline silicon solar cells (mono and polycrystalline)
    • Thin-film solar cells (amorphous silicon, CdTe, CIGS)
    • Emerging technologies (perovskite, organic, and dye-sensitized solar cells)
  4. Solar PV Module Design and Manufacture:
    • Module construction and encapsulation
    • Module electrical characteristics and performance
    • Module rating and certification
  5. Solar PV System Components:
    • Inverters (grid-tied and off-grid)
    • Charge controllers
    • Batteries and energy storage
    • Mounting structures and trackers
  6. Solar PV System Design and Installation:
    • Site evaluation and solar resource assessment
    • System sizing and component selection
    • Electrical and mechanical integration
    • Safety considerations and codes
  7. Solar PV System Performance and Economics:
    • Energy yield and performance analysis
    • Financial analysis and cost considerations
    • Environmental impacts and sustainability
  8. Solar PV Applications and Market Trends:
    • Residential, commercial, and utility-scale systems
    • Off-grid and hybrid systems
    • Current market trends and future outlook

The course will include hands-on laboratory sessions, allowing students to gain practical experience in solar cell characterization, module testing, and small-scale system design and installation. Additionally, case studies and real-world examples will be explored to reinforce the theoretical concepts and provide insights into the solar industry.

Upon completion of this course, students will have a solid foundation in solar electricity and be prepared for further study or entry-level positions in the solar energy industry.

Introduction to Engneering Mathematics

This course is about the mathematics that is most widely used in the mechanical engineering core subjects: An introduction to linear algebra and ordinary differential equations (ODEs), including general numerical approaches to solving systems of equations. Topics covered include linear systems of equations, existence and uniqueness of solutions, Gaussian elimination. Initial value problems, 1st and 2nd order systems, forward and backward Euler, and the Runge-Kutta method (RK4). The course also covers eigen problems: eigen values and eigenvectors, including complex numbers, functions, vectors and matrices. MATLAB® is used in this course.

  • Basic Algebraic Manipulations (1.0 weeks)
  • Trigonometry (1.0 weeks)
  • 2-D Vectors (1.0 weeks)
  • Complex Numbers (1.0 weeks)
  • Sinusoids & Harmonic Signals (1.0 weeks)
  • Matrices & Systems of Equations (1.0 weeks)
  • Basics of Differentiation (3.0 weeks)
  • Basics of Integration (3.0 weeks)
  • Differential Equations (3.0 weeks)