Introduction to Technology

What is Technology?

Technology is human innovation that involves the application or generation of knowledge or processes to develop systems that solve problems or extend human capability.

What are the 6 sub-systems of technology?

Communication, Construction, Manufacturing, Energy & Power, Transportation, and Biotechnology.

Where does the word Technology come from?

The Greek word TECHNE means art or craft. Therefore, technology literally means the act or study of making or crafting, but more generally it refers to the diverse collection of processes and knowledge that people use to extend human abilities and to satisfy human needs and wants.

What are the 6 areas that are impacted by Technology?

Society
Culture
Economy
Environment
Politics
Ethical considerations.

At what rate does technology increase?

Technology increases at an exponential rate.

Technology results in both positive and negative outcomes, and these can be intended or unintended.

Why do we use a method to solve problems?

By using a formal method to solve problems, we increase our likelihood that we will be successful.

Explain the steps to the DEAL problem solving method.

Define – the problem clearly.
Explore – all possible solutions.
Act – on the BEST solution.
Look back – and evaluate the results.

What is a Design Brief and what is its purpose?

A design brief is a written plan that identifies a problem to be solved, its criteria, and its constraints.

The design brief is used to encourage thinking of all aspects of a problem before attempting a solution.

Define: Brainstorming

Brainstorming is a method of shared problem solving in which all members of a group spontaneously and in a unrestrained discussion generate ideas.

A Closed – Loop System includes the Input, Process, Output and Feedback.

Input: The ideas and activities that helps us determine what we want to accomplish.
Process: The conversion of your ideas through the use of the 8 resources into useful products.
Output: The result of the system, the final product, or the solution to the problem. Outputs can be intended and unintended.
Feedback: Provides information about the quality of what is being produced

List and describe the 8 resources of technology.

Tools and Machines - Tools include hand tools, power tools, machines, and any other facilities.
Materials - Materials are the goods or raw materials that we develop into useful products.
Processes - Processes are the methods in which we produce products and have been developed and refined over time.
Energy - Energy is the source of power for all of our technology systems.
Information - Technology requires information. it is use of that information that helps us to meet our needs and wants.
Humans - People are the creators of technology and use the other resources that have been around billions of years, to create technology.
Capital - Any form of wealth is capital. Capital is barter, money, credit, or property.
Time - Since the industrial era, time has been measured in hours, minutes and seconds.

Describe what it means to be Technologically Literate.

The ability to use, manage, understand, and access technology.

What is a Design Proposal?

A written plan of action for solutions to a proposed problem.

Design techniques can be applied to Graphic Presentations and Product Development.

What are the 7 Principles of Graphic Design?

Balance
Unity
Proportion
Harmony
Emphasis
Rhythm
Variety

What are the 6 Elements of Design?

Line
Shape
Space
Form
Color
Texture

What are the 8 Design Factors of Product Design?

Safety
Reliability
Economic Considerations
Quality Control
Environmental Concerns
Manufacturability
Maintenance/repair
Ergonomics

What are the SAFE Design Factors?
Simple
Appropriate
Functional
Efficient

Product Evolution follows the following guidelines:

Brainstorming activities
Research information
Thumbnail sketches or ideas
Working Drawings (if applicable)
Mockups
Technical Reporting or Portfolio Development
Final product for evaluation

When designing new products and technology, it is important to weigh both the benefits and the consequences.

We must consider the benefits of the design against the potential hazards.

Remember our society is more environmentally conscious that ever before.

These considerations are most commonly known as TRADE-OFFS.

What is the purpose of a Technology Assessment?

Describes a variety of techniques for determining the effects of the interaction of technology and society.

A few of my favorite inventors include:
Johann Guttenberg
Robert Goddard
Orville and Wilbur Wright