Technology is a term that encompasses all kinds of devices and processes that make our lives easier. We can use technology in our homes, at work and in education.
In the early times, technology grew out of personal experience with things and the techniques of manipulating them. Today, it also involves accumulated practical knowledge and scientific understanding.
Science, mathematicians and engineers contribute a lot to technology by looking as far ahead as is possible to estimate benefits and side effects of technological designs, and to determine how well they meet production, economic, technical and environmental criteria. Using graphics, statistics and mathematical modeling techniques they help in selecting the most appropriate technological solution to a problem.
The process of developing new technologies is a slow and methodical one that requires the completion of each step of development to validate underlying ideas, gain more understanding and to test against reality. In the absence of this process, promising early innovations often stall midway through their development.
It is also important to design for operational and maintenance costs, as these can be expensive. The need to train and maintain personnel is another factor that affects the design of many technologies.
The use of technology in classrooms can create an active learning environment where students solve real-world problems and learn through inquiry, discussion and collaboration with their peers. These activities provide a space for students to develop their independent and collaborative skills, as well as the opportunity to engage in meaningful projects and assignments that respect their individuality.
