Theme 5 - Technology for development and welfare

Topic 5.1 - What is technology?

1. Explain the meaning of technology in the modern world

The invention of tools and machines to make work easier

Examples of technology in our everyday life: cell phones, washing machines, electric stove, a smart
TV, a torch
2. The advantages and disadvantages of technology for humans and the environment.

Advantages of technology Disadvantages of technology

 It makes work and life easier.
 It makes mass production possible e.g. a
vehicle factory.
 It improves international communication
e.g. the use of satellites in outer space.
 It has improved farming methods. The
use of farming tools and machines.
 Loss of jobs e.g. manual work is replaced
by machines.
 It can be dangerous e.g. electric irons
and gas stoves can cause fire.
 It can cause pollution e.g. factories using
technology can pollute the soil and air.
 It can be misused by people to kill others
or make war e.g. building weapons and
bombs to make war.

3. Professions in technology

Define Profession - A profession is a job or work which requires special training and education.

Examples of professions in technology

1. Engineers: design and supervise the constructions of machines, devices, buildings. They
draw plans and build scale models.
2. Motor mechanic: repair and service vehicles. They work with a variety of tools and
specialised equipment and machinery.
3. Plumber: install and maintain water pipes in homes, building and streets.
4. Electrician: install and repairs all kinds of electrical systems for example street lights.
5. Aircraft mechanic: ensure that the equipment on the aircraft operates well.
6. Computer Programmer: designs software for computers so that different problems can be
solved.
7. Sonographer: examine and diagnoses medical conditions in the human body.

Activities

1. Collect pictures from magazines and newspapers on the latest technological inventions for
example computers, CDs, digital cameras, fax machines, cell phones etc., and many other such
inventions as you can find.

2. Investigate three professions in technology and report back to the class

3. Give the name of the profession.

4. Name of the institution where one can receive training and education in this profession.3
5. List 3 things these people do daily in their profession?(9)