Chapter 2 Technology as a System

Technological systems include the following 5 components. Goals, Inputs, Processes, Outputs, Feedback and Control Goals – Humans develop technology to meet certain human needs. This is basically anything we have today. Radar for example.

Inputs – are the resources that go into the system and are used by the system. These items are consumed by the system. There are 7 components that make up inputs People – Most important input. They provide know-how, management, labor and policies. Materials – are the substances from which artifacts (human made objects) are made. Tools and Machines – tools are the artifacts we use to expand what we are able to do. Ex. Hammers and screwdrivers. Machines amplify the speed, amount, or direction of a force. Energy – the ability to do work. It can be human muscle, nuclear power or heat energy to sound energy. Information – essential for operating all technology systems. It is organized data made up from facts and figures Finances – money and credit necessary for the economic system to operate. Time

Processes – A series of identifiable tasks that need to be completed. There are 3 types….. 1. Problem Solving – This requires creative action Identify the Problem Develop Solutions Isolating, refining and detailing best solutions Modeling and evaluating the solution Communicate the final solution 2. Production Processes – actions that are completed to perform the function of the technological system.

3. Management Processes – Actions people use to ensure that the production processes operate efficiently and appropriately. The following activities need to take place in the Management Process….. Planning – Setting goals and developing courses of action to reach the goal. Organizing – Divide the tasks into major segments and assigns resources to each task. Actuating – Starting the system to operate by assigning and supervising work Controlling – Comparing system output to the goal.

Outputs – Produced products or Manufactured products Outputs – Produced products or Manufactured products. This is the desired outcome of the process.

Feedback and Control – Use if information about the outputs of a process or system to regulate the system. Example……. What is DATA, INFORMATION and KNOWLEDGE? Data – is facts and figures Information – is organized data Knowledge - is the use of information to understand, interpret, or describe a specific situation or series of events. Test your knowledge page 41. Write the question and answer on a separate sheet for you to use on the quiz. Plus the crossword puzzle.