The Relationship between Science and Technology Essay Example

termA technologyoriginates from theA GreekA technologiaA ( I„IµI‡I?I?I»I?I?I?I± ) -A technA“A ( I„I­I‡I?I· ) , meaning an "art," "skill," or "trade," andA -logiaA ( -I»I?I?I?I± ) , which denotes the study or branch of knowledge of a subject. [1] This term can have a general application or be specific to certain areas, such asA construction technology, medical technology, A information technology, orA high technology. Technologies significantly impact the ability of humans and other animals to control and adapt to their natural environments.

The human species first utilized engineering by converting natural resources into basic tools. The discovery of fire in ancient times improved the accessibility of food resources, while the invention of the wheel facilitated human travel and control over their environment. Modern technological advancements like the printing press, telephone, and Internet have diminished communication barriers and enabled global interactions. Nevertheless, not all technology has been harnessed for peaceful intentions; the progression of weapons development has led to increasingly destructive armaments throughout history, from clubs to atomic weapons.

Technology has impacted society and its environments in multiple ways. In many societies, technology has contributed to the growth of more sophisticated economies (including the current global economy) and has facilitated the emergence of a leisure class. However, numerous technological processes generate undesirable byproducts, called pollution, and deplete natural resources, causing harm to the Earth and its environment. The adoption of various technologies also affects the values of a society, and new technology often raises fresh ethical concerns.

The impact of technology on society is evident in various aspects. One aspect is the perception of increased efficiency in human productivity, which was initially associated with machines. Additionally, technology poses a

challenge to traditional norms. The use of technology in society sparks philosophical debates about its current and future implications. There are disagreements regarding whether it enhances or worsens the human condition. Movements like Neo-Luddism and anarcho-primitivism criticize the widespread presence of technology, claiming that it harms the environment and alienates people. Conversely, advocates of ideologies such as transhumanism and techno-progressivism argue that ongoing technological advancement benefits society and improves the human condition. Recent scientific studies have revealed that tools and knowledge transmission are not exclusive to humans but also observed among other primates and certain dolphin communities.

Introduction

Contemporary society recognizes the strong relationship between science, technology, art, and social sciences due to their crucial roles in human achievements and expressions.

Essential to recognizing the strength of the relationship between scientific discipline and engineering is understanding that they are not subservient to each other. Scientific discipline and engineering work together for mutual benefit and growth in both planned and unexpected ways. To comprehend the complexity of their relationship, it is important to first establish the differences between the two spheres. These differences are what make their current alliance strong. The distinction can be characterized by three key factors which include the purpose, the perspective on what exists in the world, and how knowledge is defined and validated. The following overview explains how these factors are expressed in current understandings of scientific discipline and engineering.

• The purpose of science is to explain the natural world through iterative rational and investigative practices that involve observations and controlled experiments. Currently, science is most commonly argued from a 'critical realist' perspective.

According to Lopez and Potter

(2001), the belief is that 'things' exist in the universe and 'are as they are'. Scientists, therefore, analyze the 'real things' in order to create explanations about them. These explanations are influenced by the sociocultural context and are human-mediated representations of the 'real things' themselves. Scientific knowledge, then, is based on these 'real things'. In order for new knowledge to be considered valid in the realm of science, it must be logically sound and consistent with the prevailing paradigm. Alternatively, it must provide evidence that challenges the existing paradigm while still operating within acceptable boundaries.

The definition of "truth" in science does not require absolute certainty, but rather depends on consensus among experts. This challenges traditional ideas about a single scientific approach, as contemporary perspectives recognize the variety and adaptability of methods for specific tasks.

Scientific disciplines can differ greatly in their approaches, both within and across subsets.

An Overview of Technology

The aim of engineering is to modify the world and produce something different from its current state. This is achieved through iterative thinking and design processes that include various input sources, such as natural, material, simulated, conceptual, emotional, and imaginative elements.

Engineers utilize knowledge from the past, present, and future to guide their work. One way to understand engineering is by viewing it as a 'process ontology', which challenges the idea that objects have fixed states and instead highlights the existence of processes. These processes allow us to categorize and depict objects. From a technological standpoint, engineers play two roles: creators of the physical realm of engineering and creators of symbolic representations of the natural world. Technological knowledge focuses on functional processes rather than seeking absolute truth like

scientific knowledge.

Technological cognition is assessed primarily on the basis of "success" rather than "truth". However, similar to scientific discipline, experts in engineering establish the definition of "success" in technological cognition. Technological patterns vary depending on the context and individuals involved.

What is their connection?

Scientific cognition and methodologies have a substantial impact on shaping technological patterns and outcomes.

Scientific discipline and technology play crucial roles in understanding the success or failure of technological interventions. Science offers explanations for why certain interventions work or do not work. However, science alone can only provide limited justification for technological practices and outcomes because they rely on more than just an understanding of the natural world. Technological practices, knowledge, and outcomes can challenge the way science defines the world. For example, technologies like telescopes and microscopes have expanded the observation capabilities of humans, revealing new worlds for science to explore and explain.

The Relationship Between Science and Technology

Science, technology, and innovation are interconnected yet distinguishable activities.

Science has a crucial role in engineering by providing new ideas and concepts for technological advancements, developing efficient design tools and techniques, and evaluating design feasibility. Scientific research methods and analytical techniques used in laboratories contribute to the development of engineering practices. Science also forms the basis for acquiring skills and capabilities that benefit engineering, establishing essential knowledge for assessing broader societal and environmental impacts. Additionally, science enables more effective strategies for applied research, development, and improvement of new technologies.

However, middle school students often struggle to differentiate between science and engineering. Engineers, designers, and other professionals in design and technology utilize scientific knowledge to solve practical problems while considering human values and limitations. This understanding is

influenced by Benchmarks—a publication by the American Association for the Advancement of Science—which has shaped the National Science Education Standards (NSES).

The NSES Science and Technology standard is divided into two parts: technological design abilities and concerns about science and technology. The available resources will assist students in comprehending the connection between science and technology, as well as the distinctions between them.

Technology and the Environment

Instructors can utilize this publication to develop or enhance a unit centered on the environment. Units focused on technology and the environment offer great opportunities for collaboration among teachers of technology, science, and mathematics.

Students must evaluate the risks and advantages of both individual and industrial uses of technology. The reciprocal impact of technology on science is equally significant, demonstrated in two ways. Firstly, it provides new scientific inquiries and contributes to efficiently addressing these inquiries by allocating necessary resources. Secondly, it offers instrumentalities and techniques that aid in effectively tackling new and challenging scientific inquiries. Numerous examples of these interactions are discussed. The research portfolio for potential societal benefit extends beyond the direct connections between science and technology due to various indirect connections as well. Science and technology are invaluable assets for society, with progress being made since the 18th-century industrial revolution. Sectors like energy, physical sciences, information, and communication have greatly benefited from science and technology.

The society has greatly benefited from the innovation of engineering, as infrastructure has grown with the aid of science and technology. The introduction of electronic railroad lines has provided improved means of transportation. In the past, most things were analog, but now, thanks to science and technology, we are becoming increasingly digitalized. The invention of

the telephone and wireless services has expanded human communication. Without society, there would be no science and technology, which is why the creation of certain tools and equipment has enabled significant achievements.

Society relies heavily on present-day industries as they are crucial for its functioning. Advancements in scientific knowledge and technology are imperative for societal advancement. The emergence of computers, a noteworthy accomplishment stemming from individual creativity, has greatly contributed to the betterment of society. Computers play a vital role in enhancing our lives by providing valuable information. The undeniable significance of science and technology is profound.

Colleges and universities worldwide have numerous scholars who are at the forefront of studying the relationship between science and technology. This connection is a crucial research area referred to as Science, Technology, and Society (STS), which is acknowledged by public interest groups and academic organizations around the world. The recognition stems from recognizing that science and technology have an impact on people's lives. Consequently, discussions regarding topics such as genetically modified food and stem cell research have prompted policymakers and scientists to collaborate in order to strategize for future advancements in these areas.

The fields of science and engineering have significantly influenced the way humans perceive themselves and their origins. Scientific discoveries have shaped our comprehension of behavior and the source of our existence. In modern times, scientific experiments can have a direct or indirect impact on society. A notable example is the controversial experiment involving human cloning, which ignited widespread discussion and doubt.

The connection between science and engineering with society is a matter that necessitates government intervention. Throughout history, the changing world has witnessed numerous instances of collaborative research, education,

and community organizations working together to tackle scientific and technological matters that have an impact on society. Discussions about science and technology-related subjects are currently happening worldwide due to advancements in this field. These advancements have made it possible to create diverse materials and products. All of this serves to address how science and engineering are closely linked with society.

Deductions for Education in New Zealand

From the above, it is evident that science and technology have distinct purposes and different approaches to understanding the world. While science and technology play a complementary role in broader scientific and technological endeavors, exploring their relationship within education can enhance learning in both domains. Scientific knowledge and methodologies are valuable, and often essential, for students to successfully engage in technological practice and develop technological knowledge. Similarly, technological practices and outcomes can offer useful tools, both conceptually and materially, for scientific practice and the development of scientific knowledge. Furthermore, technological practices and outcomes provide meaningful contexts that enable students to develop deeper understandings of scientific knowledge and methodologies.

However, possibly even more significantly, exploration of the nature of both science and engineering can provide valuable insights for developing deeper understandings of both through reflecting on the differences between these key areas of being 'human'. The meeting boundaries between what is perceived as the created and the natural world, the real and simulated, the currently impossible and future possible, all require students to develop this relational cross-domain knowledge, along with in-depth understandings within both science and engineering. This in turn enables the creation of a critical framework essential to the development of scientific and technological literacy that empowers students towards informed citizenship.