Introduction to Technology Mr S. Crisp 2013

What is Technology? Definitions of “Technology” often include words such as: Science Engineering Information The word “Technology” often invokes images of computers, laboratories and sophisticated mechanical equipment, but it may be much simpler than that.

Definition of Technology (1) “Technology is the making, modification, usage, and knowledge of tools, machines, techniques, crafts, systems, methods of organization, in order to solve a problem, improve a pre-existing solution to a problem, achieve a goal, handle an applied input/output relation or perform a specific function. It can also refer to the collection of such tools, machinery, modifications, arrangements and procedures.” http://en.wikipedia.org, 2013

Definition of Technology (2) “Technology is the branch of knowledge that deals with the creation and use of technical means and their interrelation with life, society, and the environment, drawing upon such subjects as industrial arts, engineering, applied science, and pure science.” http://dictionary.reference.com, 2013

Definition of Technology (3) “Technology is (a) the application of science, especially to industrial or commercial objectives; (b) the scientific method and material used to achieve a commercial or industrial objective.” http://www.thefreedictionary.com, 2013

Definition of Technology (4) “Technology is the purposeful application of information in the design, production, and utilisation of goods and services, and in the organization of human activities.” http://www.businessdictionary.com, 2013

Definition of Technology (5) “Technology is the modification of the natural world to meet human wants and needs .” International Technology Education Association (ITEA/ITEEA), 2000/2002/2007

http://www.businessdictionary.com, 2013 Types of Technology Tangible Drawings, manuals, models, physical equipment etc. Intangible Information and knowledge, training methods etc. http://www.businessdictionary.com, 2013

Types of Technology High Intermediate: Low Entirely, or almost entirely, automated and intelligent technology that manipulates ever finer matter and ever powerful forces Intermediate: Semi-automated, partially intelligent technology that manipulates refined matter and medium level forces. Low Labour-intensive technology that manipulates only coarse or gross matter and weaker forces. http://www.businessdictionary.com, 2013

Examples of Technology Tangible Intangible High Medium Low The Internet / The Cloud Mobile Phone School Level Education Electric Motor Hammer The Alphabet

Technology Requires The ability to use, manage, assess and understand it This is often referred to as “Technological Literacy”

A Technologically Literate Person Is someone who “understands, in increasing ways that evolve over time, what technology is, how it is created and how it shapes society, and in turn is shaped by society.” International Technology Education Association (ITEA/ITEEA), 2007

Technological Literacy Technologically illiterate people will become increasingly dependent on other people who are technologically literate

Consequences of Technology The application of technology has consequences, both intended and unintended Some consequences may be “good” while some may be “bad” The definition of “good” or “bad” is subjective – it depends on each individual’s opinion and point-of-view.

Technology and the Environment Technology impacts, affects and changes the environment The environment impacts, affects and changes technology. Examples?

Technology and Society Technology impacts, affects and changes society Society impacts, affects and changes technology. Examples?

Technological Progress Twenty years later and all of these things fit into your pocket!