Humans will never run as fast as a cheetah, swim like a fish, or fly like a eagle.
With technology humans can extend their abilities. This allows them to travel great
distances quickly, lift heavy objects, communicate with people across the globe,
and become more productive workers.
Technology is the use of knowledge, tools, materials, and processes to alter the
natural world in order to satisfy human needs and wants. Humans use technology to
design, problem solve, invent, and innovate solutions to everyday problems. Conquering
and controlling nature continues to be a central purpose of technology.
Science and Technology are different content areas that work together to improve
the way we live. Science is the study of the natural world. This includes plants,
animals, and everything else that was not created by humans. Technology is the study
of the human made world. This includes buildings, cars, and all the many other objects
invented by or produced by humans.
Imagine a world without technology. What would that world be like? How would our
lives be different? Would completing jobs be easier or more difficult?
Almost every
part of our daily lives is affected by technology. The homes we live in, the vehicles
that take us from place to place, and the devices we use everyday are just a few
examples of the products of technology.
Technology is a difficult concept to define. Many misconceptions exist about what technology is and what the word really means. Most individuals believe technology is computers or the latest electronic devices. These devices are the products of technology, but these devices only make up a small part of the concept of technology
Technology is like air. It can not be seen or touched, but it is all around us everyday.
We know technology exist because we can see the products or results of technology.
These products are our homes, buildings, highways, vehicles, electronics, clothing,
communication method, and all the many other human made devices or systems we use
everyday.
The job of a scientist and the job of a technologists are similar, but the jobs are also unique. Scientist deal primary with the why and how things occur in nature. Scientist ask questions like, why do volcano erupt? Technologists deal primary with designing and problem solving. Technologists ask questions like, how can we design and develop safe housing near a volcano?
How does science and technology work together? Scientific discoveries lead to technological inventions and innovations. Technological inventions and innovations lead to scientific discoveries.
