Technology is a broad term that encompasses the use of electric-powered devices and systems to process information. Everything from your laptop, tablet, and smart phone to the internet and television falls under this category. In the business world, it refers to a company’s processes and tools used in everyday operations. Keeping up with new technology allows professionals to stay ahead of the competition and make their businesses more efficient.
Technology also encompasses the application of electricity to living organisms or nonliving matter, such as soil or water. The invention of the electric power station in the 1800s brought electrical energy to homes and cities, allowing for the growth of many industries. The 1900s saw the creation of integrated circuits, which allowed for electronic products such as computers and cellular telephones to be made. Scientists also began using electricity to directly benefit human beings. Electricity-powered hearing aids and kidney dialysis machines are examples of this type of technology.
The technological advancements of the twentieth century have had a profound impact on human life. This expansion of technology has been both good and bad, depending on the specific use case. The development of the internet and its associated social networking technologies, for example, has made it easier to connect with other people around the world. This has led to an increase in globalization and a greater understanding of cultural differences across the globe. However, there are concerns about the increasing pace of technological change and its potential negative effects on society.
As a result, there are two sharply diverging traditions of thinking about the meaning and nature of technology. One view, popularized in the 1950s by Robert Bigelow, argues that technology is all about means and ends and essentially neutral in its value. This perspective is often contrasted with a second view that considers technology to be an agent of values and an expression of culture.
When choosing the right educational technology for a course, it is important to be clear on what you hope to accomplish. Thoughtful tech choices are not generic, but tightly wedded to a discipline and course or even an individual lesson. The best tech for a lesson is the one that will support your goals and objectives.
Aside from its practical benefits, educational technology can foster collaboration among students and teachers. Online lessons, learning games, and virtual classrooms allow students to work together on projects and share ideas. Likewise, it enables teachers to communicate with students at home, answer questions about class assignments, and provide feedback.
Besides improving efficiency, technology can also help organizations cut costs by automating certain tasks and making them more accurate. For example, utilizing automation software in communications can reduce the cost of sending emails, and employing robots to perform tasks that require human attention and speed can lower labor costs significantly. By adopting technology, companies can become more competitive and improve their sales. This is especially true in highly competitive markets where technology serves as a unique selling point.