Unit 2: What is Technology?

Question 1

Definition of Technology

Answer 1

“Technology” has its roots in the Greek language. “Techne” means skill and “logos” means “Words”

Technology is a process by which us humans manipulate different materials in an intelligent way so that we can improve the quality of life in general. They are created as a solution to existing problems; necessity is the mother of invention.

Question 2

List some Technological Achievements

Answer 2

1. Increasing Survival and Longevity
2. Constructing Infrastructure
3. Enabling the dissemination of information, and communication
4. Facilitating Transport
5. Providing Entertainment

Question 3

What are the aims of Technology?

Answer 3

The principal aim of technology is to satisfy human needs, using knowledge acquired from science to solve problems and improve quality of life.

Some of the values of Technology include:
Efficiency,
Durability,
Ecological Concerns,
Functionality,
Performance Quality,
Cost,
Aesthetics

Question 4

The Impact of Science on Technology

Answer 4

Science provides the knowledge and understanding of natural phenomena, while technology uses this knowledge to develop practical applications to improve our quality of life. Technology is an application of science.

Example: The study of biology has led us to develop Artificial Hips, Knees & other joints. This would help amputees enjoy a better quality of life when an artificial limb is tailor-made for their specific requirements.

Question 5

The Impact of Technology on Science

Answer 5

1. Experimental Tools And Instruments: Technology has provided scientists with more powerful tools and instruments.
2. Data Collection and Analysis: Advanced sensors, data logging, imaging techniques and computer algorithms allow scientists to collect and process vast amounts of data more efficiently.
3. Collaboration and Communication: Scientists can easily share research findings, collaborate remotely, and access online journals and research platforms.
4. Access to Information and Research: Online databases, scientific journals, preprint archives, and open-access initiatives have democratized access to knowledge, allowing researchers worldwide to access and contribute to scientific literature.

Question 6

The Development of Technology

Answer 6

• Stone tools in the Palaeolithic era
  10,000 B.C.
• Fire, clothing, wooden dwellings
• Agriculture, metal tools, the wheel, cultivating food
  4,000 B.C.
• Medieval technology
  5th – 14th Century A.D.
• Water mills, mechanical clocks, building techniques – Gothic Cathedrals 12-16th Century A.D.
• Renaissance technology (The Printing Press)
  14th – 17th Century A.D.
  1440 – Johannes GÜtenberg
• The Industrial Revolution (Steam engine, electricity)
  1760 – 1840 (approx. 100 year period)
  The time electricity was in function.
• Communication (Telephone, radio, television)
  1876 : Alexander Graham Bell Invented the Telephone
  1895 : First Radio (Italy)
  1927 : First Television (San Fransisco)
• Transport (Motor car, aeroplane)
  1886 : First Motor Car (Carl Benz: Business man not a scientist)
  1903 : First Aeroplane (the Wright Brothers – North Carolina)

Question 7

The Technological Design Process

Answer 7

1. Identify the Problem
2. Background Research
3. Specification of Requirements
4. Brainstorming and Analysis of Ideas
5. Choosing the Best Solution
6. Development of Solution
7. Building a Prototype
8. Testing and Re-Designing
9. Communication of Results