Technology and Society

What this page covers

Most of what you will find here is mind maps. They look at technology as a way of solving problems, and at how it affects everyday life. Some maps follow the history of engineering in society, from early years through the Egyptians, Greeks and Romans. Others look at risk, new and emerging technologies, household appliances and 3D printers.

Where to start

Begin with the definition. The maps called WHAT IS TECHNOLOGY and Technology solves problems set out the basic idea: technology applies knowledge and skills to meet a need or solve a problem.

Then move to the technological process. Many maps here break it into stages, from need or problem, through idea, development and construction, to verification and marketing. Several versions exist, so compare two or three. Each one words the steps a little differently, and that helps you remember them.

A suggested order

1. Read a map on what technology is.
2. Work through a map on the technological process.
3. Look at Technology and Risk and Core 1.1 Impact of Technology for the wider effects.
4. Try New and Emerging Technologies and the maps on 3D printers.
5. Use the notes, such as Development of Technology and Nature of technology, to fill in detail.

Using quizzes and maps together

There is one quiz here, Technology Practice Quiz. Read a map first, then take the quiz to see which stages or ideas you missed. Go back to the matching map and look again. A small set of flashcard decks, including Notes on Technology, works well for quick checks. Teachers can use the slide sets and flowcharts as ready-made classroom material.

Where this unit sits

This unit belongs to the strand Engineering, Technology and Society, within the subject Engineering and technology (general or other). Its resources are made by GoConqr users, and they are free to open.

Choose one map today and try to redraw it from memory.