Technology is the current state of humanity’s knowledge about how to combine resources to create desired products or services. It includes techniques, processes, tools and raw materials.
Some of the most commonly used technologies include hand tools, mechanical devices like gears and cogwheels, electrical systems such as your laptop and TV, communication devices such as phones and satellite networks, and information-processing devices like computers and tablets. You probably also use a variety of software and online platforms to help with tasks such as writing, research and collaboration.
Using technology in the classroom can be beneficial, but it’s important to remember that learning is a personal process and not everyone learns the same way. Some students thrive in a highly interactive, hands-on environment while others need more time to process and research topics on their own. The right blend of learning methods can lead to success for all students.
The development of technology involves a step-by-step process that validates underlying ideas, gains a deeper understanding and tests the product against reality. This is why many seemingly promising early technologies stall midway through their development – a phenomenon known as the ‘death valley’.
The development of technology requires skilled design, construction and maintenance professionals as well as sophisticated education in order to keep up with its pace of advancement. It is also critical to consider the positive and negative impacts of new technologies on our society and our world, as they can have significant consequences for future generations.