Technology is the human application of knowledge for achieving practical goals in a reproducible way. It includes both tangible tools like utensils and machines, as well as intangible ones such as software. As a broad term, technology encompasses many different areas of study, including science, engineering, and the arts.
Technology has had a major impact on human society and civilization. It has changed the course of history, from farming to urbanization; has affected the development of medical and other scientific disciplines; has reshaped how people live, work, play, and communicate with each other; and has greatly increased global interdependence.
Modern technology is the result of continuous research and innovation. New technological developments can be found in every area of life, such as in medicine, computers, communication systems, transportation, manufacturing, agriculture, and more. The development of technology has allowed for the creation of more efficient methods of producing goods and services, improving health care, expanding education, and enhancing the quality of life in general.
It increases productivity: Using technology in business can increase production and help businesses stay competitive. For example, using computer programs to automate tasks allows for more accurate and speedier work. Also, using automation in areas that require a lot of manual labor or attention to detail helps reduce the need for humans and saves money.
It makes it easier to learn: Students can use popular applications such as Youtube, Instagram, and Facebook to learn new things and expand their knowledge. This helps them become more proficient in computers and other technologies, which can help them find jobs and be successful in the future.
It can make learning fun: Incorporating technology into a lesson plan can help teachers and students interact with each other in an exciting way. Using video-based platforms like Voxer, a group chat app, can allow students to share ideas and information in real time, making lessons more interactive. It can also provide students with a safe and fun place to discuss sensitive topics.
Incorporates creativity: Using technology in the classroom can teach students how to create and think creatively. For example, a student may create a video game that incorporates an aspect of the class topic they are studying. Then, they can share their creation with the rest of the class and get feedback on how to improve it.
While individual inventiveness is essential to technological innovation, social and economic forces strongly influence what technologies will spread and be adopted. These factors include consumer acceptance, patent laws, the availability of venture capital, and the relative merits of different technologies with respect to their cost, energy consumption, and environmental impact. Additionally, the design of a particular technology typically involves trade-offs between these factors, so that the final product will perform its intended functions. Consequently, the success of most technological innovations is ultimately determined by market forces. Some technologies, however, eventually become so important that their use is regulated by law. Examples of such technologies include contour plowing, vaccines, nuclear power plants, and genetically modified foods.