Technology is the application of scientific knowledge to practical aims and to the changing or manipulation of the human environment. It may refer to material things, such as tools or machines, but also to immaterial things like computer software and business methods. It is often used in conjunction with the word science, though it does not require rigorous scientific pursuit of truth as its genesis. The Antikythera mechanism is sometimes called the first mechanical analog computer, for instance, but it did not necessarily depend on a precise theory of bacteria to work.
Technological change can alter the course of history and fundamentally change the nature of society. The great technological revolutions of agriculture, sanitation and medical science have improved the quality of life; bows and arrows and gunpowder changed the way war is waged; computers are revolutionizing how people write, bank, conduct research and communicate with each other. But there are dangers too: technology can undermine existing social hierarchies and make people resentful of each other; it can cause pollution, contaminate the environment, or harm individual human beings.
The development of technology is a complex process. It typically involves a series of steps, each of which validates a set of ideas, improves the design and testing of prototypes, and provides greater confidence that the finished product will actually do what it is intended to do. Because of this, it is rare for a scientific result or an engineer’s idea to be immediately transformed into a usable technology; even seemingly promising early technologies often stall midway through their development.
In addition to making it possible to develop devices that heal the sick, help the deaf to hear and the blind to see, and allow humans to travel to distant planets, technology has made it possible for many businesses to thrive. By keeping up with the latest technological developments, companies can ensure that their products are of the highest quality and can compete with the competition in the marketplace.
It is also important for teachers to use technology in their classrooms so that students can learn in an exciting and engaging way. For example, using interactive whiteboards and tablets makes lessons more interesting for students and helps keep their attention. In addition, it allows them to connect with the internet and other digital resources.
Another advantage of using technology in the classroom is that it enables teachers to provide feedback to their students quickly and easily. This can be especially useful for students with special needs. For example, students with learning disabilities can be helped by using assistive technology. In addition, it can help teachers keep track of student progress and understand how their teaching style can be improved. This information can then be shared with parents and students. Technology can also make it easier for students to understand curriculum materials. For example, some students are more able to visualize complex concepts when they are taught through virtual technology. This can lead to more successful learning and higher academic marks.
