Technology is an umbrella term for a wide range of human-made tools, instruments, devices and machines. It also refers to the way in which these are used, as well as their design and development.
While technological developments often have significant benefits such as economic growth, improved living conditions, medical progress and social advancement, they can also harm people and the environment, disrupt established hierarchies or even cause wars. It is therefore crucial to understand the nature of technology and its impact on both our daily lives and the wider world.
A common misconception is that a ‘technological’ thing must be new. However, it is possible for technologies to be developed and used in a number of different ways over time, and many machines and techniques have been around for a long time. Indeed, it is the fact that many of these are still in use today that demonstrates how technology has an enduring and versatile effect on our societies and environments.
For example, it has become increasingly common for schools to use educational technology in their teaching. Students no longer have to go to libraries or technology labs to access valid information for their assignments, as it is now possible for them to search the internet and instantly get relevant results. This helps them to make informed decisions about their work and can improve productivity. However, it is important for students to remember that using technological resources can make them more reliant on these sources of information.