1. Introduction to Informatics
The Ideas, Evolution, and Importance of Informatics
Lecture(6)
Dr. Abdelhamid R. Khattab
Sinai University (SU)
E-Mail:
Abdelhamid.khattab@su.edu.eg
2. What is Informatics?
Informatics is the science of processing, managing, and using information.
It integrates computer science, data science, and domain-specific knowledge.
The goal is to turn raw data into meaningful insights for decision-making.
Informatics combines multiple disciplines to transform data into
actionable insights.
3. Historical Development
• Origins in library science and early computing.
• Growth through development of databases and networks.
• Now integral to healthcare, education, business, and scientific
research.
4. Core Ideas in Informatics
• Data acquisition, storage, processing, and retrieval.
• Information modeling and system integration.
• Human-computer interaction and decision support.
5. Importance of Informatics
• Improves efficiency and accuracy.
• Enables evidence-based decision making.
• Supports innovation and interdisciplinary work.
6. Informatics as a Multidisciplinary Field
• Computer Science: Algorithms, databases, networking.
• Statistics: Data analysis, pattern recognition.
• Domain knowledge: Medicine, business, education, etc.
It draws from various fields to solve complex, real-world problems.
7. Branches of Informatics
• Bioinformatics
• Health Informatics
• Business Informatics
• Educational Informatics
• Social Informatics
8. Applied vs. Theoretical Informatics
• Theoretical: Focuses on algorithms, models, and system theory.
• Applied: Solves real-world problems using informatics tools.
Theoretical informatics underpins the practical tools used in applied
settings.
9. Key Components of Informatics Systems
• Hardware (computers, servers, devices).
• Software (information systems, analysis tools).
• Databases and user interfaces.
These components work together to collect, process, and present information.
10. The Informatics Process
1. Data Collection
2. Storage and Organization
3. Processing and Analysis
4. Retrieval and Visualization
5. Decision-making Support
This process illustrates how data becomes useful for decision-making.
11. Informatics vs. Computer Science
• Informatics focuses on data and information use in context.
• Computer Science focuses on computing principles and
system design.
• Overlap exists in software, algorithms, and databases.
12. Role of Informatics in Modern Life
• Smartphones and apps collect and process data.
• Banking and finance systems rely on informatics.
• Healthcare systems use informatics for patient care.
13. Ethical Considerations
• Data privacy and protection.
• Bias in data and algorithms.
• Transparency in decision-making systems.
Ethical use of data is essential to maintain trust and fairness.
14. Global Impact of Informatics
• Bridges digital divide.
• Enables global collaboration.
• Supports sustainable development goals (SDGs).
Informatics supports global initiatives and reduces information inequality
15. Challenges in Informatics
• Data overload and noise.
• System interoperability.
• User training and adaptation.
Challenges must be addressed to ensure effective informatics
implementation.
16. Trends in Informatics
• Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning.
• Cloud computing and data integration.
• Mobile and wearable health technologies.
Emerging technologies are shaping the future of informatics.
17. Case Study: COVID-19 and Informatics
• Data dashboards for real-time updates.
• Genomic tracking of virus mutations.
• Telemedicine and remote patient monitoring.
18. Future of Informatics
• More personalized systems and services.
• Integration of AI for decision-making.
• Expansion into new fields like environmental informatics.
Future systems will be more intelligent, personalized, and
integrated.
19. Summary and Key Takeaways
• Informatics transforms data into actionable knowledge.
• Multidisciplinary and rapidly evolving.
• Essential in today’s information-driven society.
