Technological Literacy :: Technology Technological Papers

Technological Literacy Definitions and principleWhat is engineering? A definition of applied science literacy might well put down with a definition of technology. Technology consists of all the modifications humans have make in the natural environment for their own purposes (Dugger 2001)inventions, innovations, and changes intended to meet our wants and needs, to tarry longer, more(prenominal) productive lives. Such a broad definition of technology entangles a broad spectrum of artifacts, ranging from the age-old (flint tools, wheels, levers) to the high-tech (computers, multimedia, biotechnologies). In short, if humans ruling of it and made it, its technology. Two important points need to made somewhat such a broad definition of technology. First, although some writers address however computer and communications technology (e.g., Selfe 1999), technology is usually defined to imply far more than instructional or communications technology (Custer 1999). Computers, e-mail, an d meshing TV argon only one part of the array of devices and procedures we realize in day-to-day lifeeverything from digitized kitchen appliances to transportation systems and integrated manufacturing. Second, science and technology, although near related, are opposite (Sanders 1999). Science generates knowledge for its own sake, proposing and testing explanations. Technology, on the former(a) hand, develops human-made solutions to real-world problems. Of course, science usances technology to generate knowledge and technology affairs scientific knowledge to generate solutions, so the two are integrally affiliated but they are different fields driven by different concepts and processes (Bybee 2000). What is technological literacy? Just as technology involves more than computers and the Internet, technological literacy involves more than hands-on skill in using technology (Bugliarello 2000). Certainly, knowing how to use information technology is increasingly important in our k nowledge society, whether we are looking for a job, marketing a service, or shopping for a product. We must also be able to use other devices, standardized microwaves, copying machines, and self-service gas pumps, that have become part of habitual life at home, at work, or in the community. However, the ability to use technology is only one part of technological literacy. What are the other parts? Interpreting a large body of work on technological literacy from a variety of fields, Gagel (1997) suggested common elements of an enduring, inherent technological literacy that bum last through the fast, continuous changes in technology. This type of technological literacy would include knowledge about the details of individual technologies and about the process of technology development. It would also include a holistic understanding of the historical and ethnic context of technology and adaptability based on initiative and resourceful thinking.