Technology is the way in which a person, group or organization makes use of tools to accomplish goals. Often this involves the creation of complex systems with interlocking parts and an overall plan. Some of these technologies are designed to solve problems that humans have not been able to do themselves. Other technologies are used to increase efficiency or create new opportunities for human activity. These advances can lead to significant improvements in human life. However, technology can also cause problems. Some people think that technology can be harmful to the environment and alienate humans from each other. Others believe that progress in technology will improve the human condition.
A basic technology is a tool that is essential for the operation of a modern economy and society. Examples include electricity, telecommunications and transportation. These technologies are the foundation upon which more advanced and specialized technologies build. Many of these newer technologies require substantial investment in research and development.
Basic technologies can be made up of simple tools or machines, such as a wheelbarrow, or they may involve more complex inventions like a computer, an electric toothbrush or a smartwatch. A basic technology can make people more productive and free to pursue other activities by allowing them to automate some tasks.
The history of technology begins in the ancient world, with primitive stone tools used for hunting and making fires. In the medieval era, humans used wind and water power to create ships to explore other countries. In the industrial revolution, factories were powered by coal and steam. In the modern age, scientists have developed nuclear technology and space rockets.
In the late 1900s scientists discovered how to fit the parts that make technology products work onto chips, which became the basis for personal computers, digital cameras and cellular telephones. Scientists also began to attach electrical devices directly to living things, such as pacemakers and hearing aids.
As new technologies gain popularity, they tend to prioritize certain paths and neglect other ones. For example, digital cameras replaced film cameras and darkrooms as the main route to photographs. Analogue photography was deprioritized, along with its inefficient but gratifying workflows and painstaking culture of physically retouching images for hours at a time.
Using technology in the classroom can help students stay connected to each other and curriculum materials, and also allows teachers to create a safe place for social media discussion topics. However, a teacher should be explicit about which apps and websites are allowed in class and which are not. If students understand why some apps or websites are blocked, they are more likely to accept this policy and respect it. This is important because the use of technology can affect the health and wellbeing of children. This is particularly true when children are unable to control their technology habits, or when they become dependent on technology to meet their needs. This is why it is essential to monitor and educate children about the use of technology.