Technology is the current state of humanity’s knowledge on how to combine raw materials, tools and resources to create a desired product or service. It also includes the processes and methods used to produce this product or service, such as engineering, science and mathematical techniques, physics, chemistry, biology and history.
For example, mechanical technology uses gears, cogwheels and other moving parts to make machines like bicycles and ships work more efficiently. Communication technology involves the use of symbols and systems to send messages to people, such as cave paintings and petroglyphs, pictograms and ideograms. Technology enables us to stay connected with friends, family and strangers across the globe in real-time.
While there are many benefits of technology, some disadvantages exist as well. For instance, improved task efficiency can lead to fewer human worker hours which may lead to job shortages in some sectors. Additionally, some technologies can be expensive and out of reach for less affluent individuals, contributing to the digital divide.
Students should be familiar with a wide variety of technology because it will play a large role in their lives moving forward. Teachers can help their students develop an understanding of technology by teaching them the basic skills they will need and by using it in the classroom to make learning more meaningful. For example, if students learn about the lack of clean water in an area, they can access programs on their smartphones to find ways that they can help.
