What - Use of Technology

1/5/2020 What Is Technology - Meaning of Technology and Its Use - Use of Technology
WHAT IS TECHNOLOGY – MEANING OF

TECHNOLOGY AND ITS USE
By Karehka Ramey - December 12, 2013
De nition Of Technology
What Is Technology? Technology is a body of knowledge devoted to creating tools, processing
actions and the extracting of materials. The term ‘Technology” is wide, and everyone has their way of
understanding its meaning. We use technology to accomplish various tasks in our daily lives, in brief;
we can describe technology as products and processes used to simplify our daily lives. We use
technology to extend our abilities, making people the most crucial part of any technological system.
Technology is also an application of science used to solve problems. But it is vital to know that
technology and science are di erent subjects which work hand-in-hand to accomplish speci c tasks
or solve problems.
We apply technology in almost everything we do in our daily lives; we use technology at work, we
use technology for communication, transportation, learning, manufacturing, securing data, scaling
businesses and so much more. Technology is human knowledge which involves tools, materials, and
systems. The application of technology typically results in products. If technology is well applied, it
bene ts humans, but the opposite is true, if used for malicious reasons.
Many businesses are using technology to stay competitive, they create new products and services
using technology, and they also use technology to deliver those products and services to their
customers on time and within budget. A good example is mobile phones companies like Apple &
Samsung, these mobile empires, use high-end technology to create new smartphones and other
electronic devices to stay competitive. This competitive edge is gained through employing advanced
technology.
Let’s look at a simple example of how people use technology on a daily basis.
https://www.useoftechnology.com/what-is-technology/ 1/23
Advancing Technology
Technology is dynamic; it keeps on improving because our needs and demands for technology keep
on changing. We have moved from the industrial age (industrial revolution) to an information age.
During the industrial age, companies with large sums of capital had the potential of employing
expensive technological tools to gain the competitive advantage; small businesses had less
potential because they could not a ord expensive manufacturing or processing technology tools.
However, advancement in technology has created a new economic environment which depends on
information, and that is what we call the ‘’INFORMATION AGE’’. The information age provides a
di erent work environment, and this has helped small businesses gain position in highly competitive
markets.
Let’s take a simple example and see how technology has advanced:
TYPES AND EXAMPLES OF TECHNOLOGY
We use technology to accomplish various tasks, so technology comes in di erent forms. Below I have
listed some of the di erent types of technology we use on a daily basis and in each kind of technology
I have included an example of that particular technology.
Communication Technology
This is a system that uses technical means to transmit information or data from one place to another
or from one person to another. Communication is a daily essential for all; it is used to convey ideas,
exchange information, and express emotions. Humans use communication technology tools like
phones, computers, emails, fax or messaging tools to stay in touch with friends and family.
Businesses use communication technology tools to facilitate the ow of information in a workplace, to
help in decision making, to serve customers needs and requests, to promote new products or
services to targeted consumers and so much more.
Example Of Communication Technology
Plantronics M165 Marque 2 Ultralight Wireless Bluetooth Headset
This simple elegant device allows for a hands-free conversation on any mobile device, it is completely
compatible with Android or IOS. It features dual microphones to reduce noise and wind interference
for crystal clear call quality. Also, it boasts over 7 hours talk time.
Plantronics 88120-41 M165 Marque 2...
HIGH QUALITY BLUETOOTH HEADSET: Dual microphones reduce noise and wind for clear,
crisp call quality while in the o ce or at the gym
VOICE RECOGNITION: Manage calls hands free without pressing buttons through Plantronics
voice recognition technology, just say Answer or Ignore
Check Price
BESTSELLER NO. 1
New Bee Bluetooth Earpiece V5.0 Wireless...
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Plantronics Voyager Legend Wireless...
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Plantronics Voyager 5200 - Bluetooth...
$119.99
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Construction Technology
This is the study of advanced methods and equipment used to build basic and advanced structures.
One type includes buildings and heavy engineering structures like bridges. Construction methods use
various technological products to erect a structure. The use of construction technology tools like
heavy tractors to prepare the land, computer-aided design software to create digital designs for
structures in 2D and3D format. These tools along with many others help builders to e ciently
complete a project on time, within budget and with minimum accidents.
Example Of Construction Technology
Milwaukee M18 Fuel 2-Tool Combo Kit
Equipped with the best of Milwaukee’s technology these tools are prepared for any job you can
through at it. Supported by the best brushless motors available and a powerful M18 Battery Pack.
Plantronics 88120-41 M165 Marque 2...
HIGH QUALITY BLUETOOTH HEADSET: Dual microphones reduce noise and wind for clear,
crisp call quality while in the o ce or at the gym
VOICE RECOGNITION: Manage calls hands free without pressing buttons through Plantronics
voice recognition technology, just say Answer or Ignore
Check Price
DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill Combo Kit,...
$829.00
Check Price
DEWALT 20V (DCK940D2) Max Cordless Drill...
$799.00
Check Price
Ryobi P884 18-Volt ONE+ Lithium-Ion...
$359.99
Check Price

Assistive Technology
Assistive technology is used by people with disabilities to accomplish speci c tasks that are di cult
or impossible to perform. The term ”Assistive” means helping or providing an extra hand. Assistive
technology is being used in many ways, in schools it is used to help students with Autism to learn
better, it is used to help people with disabled bodies move, additionally, with the use of speech
recognition applications those who are unable to type are able to use a computer and so much more.
Due to advancement in technology, we have a variety of assistive technologies that assist many to
accomplish tasks that may otherwise be considered impossible.
Example Of Assistive Technology
O -road Wheelchair
Image from: www.wheelchairdriver.com
This o -road wheelchair can assist people with disabilities to move comfortably.
BESTSELLER NO. 1
Vive Stand Assist - Mobility Standing...
Check Price
BESTSELLER NO. 2
RMS 7-Piece Hip Knee Replacement Kit...
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BESTSELLER NO. 3
Bottom Buddy Toilet Tissue Wiping Aid ::...
Check Price
Medical Technology
This is the type of technology which is used to extend and improve human life. Medical technology
reduces patient’s pain and cares for an injury. Developed countries have bene ted from the use of
medical technology in their healthcare systems, and this explains the reason why people in developed
countries leave longer than people in developing countries. Medical technology is used to diagnose
infections, treat diseases and to research diseases a ecting humans, etc..
Example Of Medical Technology
TAP 20™ for Point-of-Care Testing – SeventhSense
This Point-of-Care Testing can help doctors obtain patient’s blood without a diagnosis. It comes with
so many advantages which include:
– It’s painless for the patient.

-It keeps the blood sample until used for testing
Learn more about Point-of-Care testing here.
Information Technology
Information Technology is a set of hardware and software tools used to store, transfer and process
information. Information technology tools help in providing the right people with the right
information at the right time. Knowledge workers in an organization use information technology to
complete various tasks, and these can include; transferring of information which facilitates decision
making within an organization, improve customer service, and so much more. In this information
age, it is imperative to manage information systems to ensure accuracy and e ciency. Management
information systems (MIS) involves planning for, development, management, and use of information
technology tools to help knowledge workers and people perform all tasks related to information
processing and management. Big nancial institutions like banks use information technology to
operate their entire businesses as well as serve their customers.
Examples Of Information Technology
NETGEAR Nighthawk Pro WiFi Router
This complete router features ultra Fast AC technology allowing for Up to 2.6Gbps of wireless speed.
It houses a powerful Dual-core 1.7Ghz processor, a 4 port switch and 2 USB 3.0 slots. All you would
ever need for information transfer at home.
BESTSELLER NO. 1
NETGEAR Nighthawk Smart WiFi Router...
Check Price
TP-Link AC1750 Smart WiFi Router - Dual...
$79.99
Check Price
BESTSELLER NO. 3
TP-Link AC1200 WiFi Router - Dual Band...
Check Price

Entertainment Technology
This use of technology to create an entertainment experience. Since entertainment is too broad,
everyone gets entertained in their way. Technology is used to create video games, to develop musical
systems and so much more. Entertainment technology includes things like video, sound, animations,
scenery fabrication, computer simulations, interactive environments and so much more.
Example Of Entertainment Technology
Numark Mixtrack 3
A DJ Console with all the bells and whistles. Everything you need to entertain!
Hercules DJControl Inpulse 200 |...
$99.99
Check Price
BESTSELLER NO. 2
Numark DJ2GO2 | Ultra Portable Two...
Check Price
BESTSELLER NO. 3
Magma DJ Controller Workstation NV -...
Check Price
Business Technology
This is technology used to run a business and enhance various business operations, it normally
consists of a combination of software and hardware. Many businesses are using technology to scale
its growth. Small businesses have used technology to create new ways of competing with well-
established companies. To some extent, some business technologies can make a small company look
like a big company, and this can help a small business gain position in a competitive market.
Example Of Business Technology
3D Printer – Created by formlabs
This is an a ordable 3D printer that allows designers to create advanced 3D objects. Its size and
design are a perfect t for every o ce desk space. With this 3D printer, you can create as many 3D
models as you want. Use its software to generate thin, breakable support structures. Learn more
about this FORM2 3D printer here.
Comgrow Creality Ender 3 Pro 3D Printer...
$339.00
Check Price
Comgrow Creality Ender 3 3D Printer...
$299.00
Check Price
JGMAKER Magic 3D Printer DIY Kit with...
$299.00
Check Price
Educational Technology
Education technology aims at improving a students performance by creating and managing various

technological processes and resources in or out the classroom. It is an academic discipline which
prepares individuals to acquire deeper understanding and knowledge. It helps them learn how to
devise solutions to problems through research, design, evaluation, and utilization. Educational
technology helps in improving the way we learn, some of the bene ts of educational technology
include:
– It motivates students and encourages individual learning.

– Easy access to educational material
– Helps students learn new subjects and languages through gami cation
Example Of Education Technology
Markup:
Teachers you can try this Paperless grading application for iPad. If you want to have a paperless
classroom and your students have access to iPads, then this technology will be of great use to you
and your students. Markup has completely changed the way teachers mark test and exam papers;
students can submit electronic papers to be marked by their teachers electronically, this saves time
and resources on both sides. Try out this Markup application for iPad from here (www.showme.com )
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ABC Kids - Tracing & Phonics
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Alphabet Aquarium Vol 1: Animated Puzzle...
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PBS KIDS Games
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WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN TECHNOLOGY AND SCIENCE?

Technology is not applied science, both technology and science are closely related, but they are
di erent in so many ways.
TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPS AND EXPLAINS THE HUMAN-MADE WORLD; IT

INVOLVES DEVELOPMENT, PROCESSING, AND MANAGEMENT;
While
SCIENCE EXPLAINS THE NATURAL WORLD; SCIENCE REFERS TO SYSTEMATIC

METHODOLOGY USED TO GATHER ACCURATE INFORMATION ABOUT SHARED
REALITY.
During the process of gathering this information, technological tools are used. For example,
microscopes are biological tools which can be used to study speci c facts about anything with life.
Scienti c knowledge is gathered from detached observations. Scientists can use this gathered
information using technological tools to explain why certain things happen and this all process can be
described as research.
As humans, we use both technology and science together, that is why we confuse these two to be the
same. Science is knowledge of the natural world while technology is human-made world determined
by processing, development, and management.
For you to understand the di erence between science and technology, see example in gure (3)
below:
Figure (3)
Look closely at the image (a), it shows you a volcanic mountain erupting, this is a natural state of our
world, and it is only science which explains how this volcanic activity happens based on extensive
research and data gathered by the scientist. In the image (b), we see a scientist using a microscope to
do research and gather data. A microscope is a human-made technology designed to help scientists
do research. So that means that both concepts work hand in hand, but they are completely di erent.
Humans have developed various technological tools to help us solve problems during our daily lives,
but also this technology can a ect the natural setup of our environment if misapplied.
ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF TECHNOLOGY?

Technology is good because it simpli es the way we do things in our daily lives, however, if the
technology is wrongly applied, it can be harmful in so many ways. Technology is developed by
humans, so we can use it to accomplish almost every task; it makes the impossible look possible.
However, for you to understand the advantage and disadvantage of technology today, we can use an
example in gure (4) below:
Figure (4)
As you can see in the photo above, if the technology is well implemented it can be of great use to
humanity, but it can also cause harm. Below I have detailed points on the advantage and
disadvantage of technology in business, classroom or education.
Advantages Of Technology In Business
Increases production: Technology helps businesses automate most tasks and this process results in increased
production and e ciency. Business can automate tasks in the accounting department by using accounting
software like QuickBooks. Bakeries can automate the temperature room by using temperature sensors to detect
a drop or an increase in temperature.
Technology Helps small business gain competitive advantage: If business technology is well implemented, it
can help a small business gain position in a competitive market. Some of the ways small businesses use
technology to scale out and gain a good position in the market are; improving customer care services through
internet technologies like social networks and electronic mail, creating new products and services tailored
basing on customers needs and wants
Saves time: Since most of the activities in the business are automated, time is saved during the process.
Computers can be used to perform various business tasks, for example, a computer can be used to record data,
it can be used in video conferencing, and much more.
Technology accelerates innovation: The only way small businesses can succeed in today’s competitive world is
by using technology to create new products or services. Small businesses can use internet technology to collect
information about targeted consumers so that they understand their needs and wants; this information can be
used when tailoring new products or services.
It improves sharing of information: Many businesses use internal networks to facilitate the ow of
information within the organization. This internal network can help in the transfer of information among
di erent departments at work. Also, employees can share di erent technologies like printers, fax machines, and
internet via an internal network. This easy ow of information also improves the speed at which decisions are
made in a business.
It improves on data storage: It is critical to keep business data secure because a disaster can strike your
business and you lose all important information. The use of databases and remote storage facilities helps in
keeping business information and data secure and accessible from anywhere.
Technology simpli es business communication: Every business survives on communication; you need to
communicate with your suppliers, business partners, and employees, so technology will make this all process
simple. Many businesses use communication technologies like mobile phones, video conferencing applications
like Skype, text messaging services and electronic mail to exchange important business information.
Disadvantages Of Technology In Business
It’s expensive: Technology comes at a price, not every small business can manage to use
technology. After buying and integrating technology in business, you will have to pay another cost
of maintaining that technology, monthly maintenance is recommended, and this can be expensive.
Not Safe: Technology is not safe; it is very easy to lose business data through internet technology.
Hackers can easily access your remote database and use your business data for their own needs.
Social/ Workplace Disconnection: Over-dependence on technology has killed workplace
relationships, employees and business managers communicate through email, phones, text
messages and video conferences, this kills face-face communication. Also, most tasks are being
automated, so you nd that employees have less involvement in the nal product which leads to
dissatisfaction and workplace boredom.
Advantages Of Technology In The Classroom
Technology Promotes individual learning: Students can use their iPads and internet to do
personal research online and educate themselves. When a student is in control of what they learn,
they will have no fear of making mistakes, and this will encourage them to explore more about a
speci c subject. Many teachers are allowing students to carry out personal research on particular
topics; the results can be shared with other students or the entire classroom via a smart
whiteboard.
It Promotes Students engagement in the classroom: Since educational technologies like digital
whiteboards are interactive, teachers can give students a chance to teach their fellow students
using this interactive whiteboard. Also, the integration of Gami cation technologies keeps students
entertained and attentive while in the classroom because games remove that dull atmosphere in
the classroom. Students can learn subjects like Math and English through playing games.
Technology Helps students learn how to write and spell: The use of computers to take notes in
the classroom has helped so many students learn how to write well-composed essays. Computers
have word applications and built-in dictionaries which will auto-correct grammar mistakes while
students are taking notes in the classroom. Also, teachers are encouraging students to create
personal blogs so that they can practice and improve their writing and spelling skills.
Technology Encourages group learning: The use of group sharing technologies like Piazza.com /
Snagit / NoodleTools.com has helped shy students join discussion groups in the classroom without
exposing their identities. Group discussions help students ask questions and learn more about a
speci c subject. Group discussions tend to create a strong relationship among students in the
classroom, and they also help shy students learn how to socialize with others in the classroom.
It prepares students for technical working environments: Students are taught how to use
computers and various technological tools which can be of great bene t when they complete
school and start applying for jobs. As the world keeps on advancing, all jobs of the future will
require applicants to have some technical skills. So the use of technology in the classroom
prepares students for tomorrow’s technical working conditions.
Technology encourages risk-taking due to the challenges it presents: Technology is
challenging to learn, and it presents students with puzzles to solve. During this process of solving
academic puzzles, student’s brains become sharp, and they tend to get interested in taking more
risks. Life is about taking risks, so if our students learn how to take risks while in the classroom,
then it will be easier for them to take more calculated risks after school.
Technology assists students with disabilities: Assistive educational technology like iPads,
Robots, Games can help students with diseases like Autism learn how to speak and write. Also,
deaf students can easily communicate using mobile text messaging in the classroom, and this can
increase their engagement in the classroom.
Technology bridges the gap between teachers and students: Teachers and students are using
advanced educational technologies to connect more than before. New mobile text messaging
technologies like www.remind101.com, can be used by teachers to remind their students about
research work, remind them to prepare for a test or exam.
Technology simpli es teachers work: Teachers have found creative ways of making their work
easier by using technology in the classroom. For example, a teacher does not need to go through
the hassle of marking thousands of exam/test papers, now we have a new iPad application
‘’Markup’’ which turns all students exams into electrical papers, and teachers can mark these exam
papers with an iPad. This creates a paperless classroom because most students can a ord
computers, so exams are assigned to students electronically.
Disadvantages Of Technology In The Classroom
Distraction in the classroom: Students love to use technology in the classroom, but it tends to
distract them, for example, the use of mobile phones to study in the classroom, distracts some
students. Most of these smartphones have social applications like twitter, facebook, Youtube and
Pinterest; students tend to use these social applications on their smartphones for entertainment
purposes while in the classroom.
It is expensive: Schools with small budgets can not a ord to integrate technology into their
classrooms. Also, parents with limited income can not a ord to buy laptops or iPads for their
children. So not every school or student will be in a position to use technology in the classroom.
Then for schools which have managed to integrate technology into their classrooms, nd trouble
when it comes to maintaining these educational technologies.
Requires Training: Both teachers and students need extra training on how to use various
educational technologies, this can cost both time and money.
HOW TO SOLVE PROBLEMS USING TECHNOLOGY?

Technology is designed with a purpose of solving problems; it has to meet human needs and wants.
We use technology in so many ways; at least everyone uses technology in one-way or another. A
problem exists when we encounter di culty; problem-solving is human behavior, though our
approach varies from person-to-person. During the process of solving a problem, the following is
taken into consideration;
Develop an understanding of the problem through observation.

Devise a plan for solving that problem.
Implementing the plan.
Evaluating the plan.
Technology will be used in all those four stages of problem-solving, however, for you to easily
understand how to solve problems using technology, see image example below.
Example
Look closely at the photo above, on the left we see the problem is the tra c jam in the city and on the
right; you can see that one of the solutions of solving this tra c jam is by using high-speed electronic
trains. The problem was identi ed, and technology was used to plan the solution and implement that
solution in the city. The use of high-speed electronic trains has reduced tra c jam in big cities like
Newyork. Below I have listed four basic phases you need to know about when solving problems with
technology.
Identifying A Technological Problem
During this stage, you will need to de ne the problem by explaining the situation that needs a
technological solution and establishing the criteria that technological system or device has to meet.
Then you have to gather information needed to begin developing solutions for the problem or
situation.
Developing A Solution
During this phase, you will need to develop possible solutions that can solve a given problem. You will
test more than one solution until you re ne the best solution to solve that problem permanently and
meet the opportunity.
Evaluating The Solution
At this stage, you will be modeling the best solution through testing and evaluating all proposed
solutions by use of graphics, statistics, and mathematical modeling techniques. For you to select the
best technological solution, you will need to compare the design solutions regarding economic,
market, technical, production, and environmental criteria to determine the best solution to that
particular problem.
Communicating The Solution
Now that you have evaluated all solutions, it is time to communicate the nal solution to your team
through graphical drawings, reports, and mathematical means. If you agree with your team, you can
now go ahead and present the solution for approval from the management or government.
In Conclusion
Judging from the four steps of solving a problem using technology, you will see that the technology we
are using started with an idea of solving a problem or meeting an opportunity. A person or a group of
people saw the problem or the opportunity, and they designed solutions for meeting that problem or
opportunity. Today we have various technologies which were designed to solve simple problems, for
example, social networks like Facebook.com, twitter.com have solved communication and social
interaction problem.
As I conclude this chapter of “WHAT IS TECHNOLOGY?” , I hope that you deeply understand the
meaning of technology, types of technology being used today, the advantages and
disadvantages of technology and how you can use technology to solve daily problems or meet
opportunities
A liate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Karehka Ramey
https://www.useoftechnology.com
Serious research has been undertaken to publish this content, so you're in the right place. I love technology, I believe
embracing its potential for personal, business or educational advancement will pave the way forward for us all. We've all
heard "knowledge is power", with this website I hope, to some degree, to empower you!
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1/5/2020 What Is Technology - Meaning of Technology and Its Use - Use of Technology

WHAT IS TECHNOLOGY – MEANING OF

TYPES AND EXAMPLES OF TECHNOLOGY

Example Of Communication Technology

Plantronics M165 Marque 2 Ultralight Wireless Bluetooth Headset

Plantronics 88120-41 M165 Marque 2...

New Bee Bluetooth Earpiece V5.0 Wireless...

BESTSELLER NO. 2 SALE

Plantronics Voyager Legend Wireless...

BESTSELLER NO. 3 SALE

Plantronics Voyager 5200 - Bluetooth...

Example Of Construction Technology

Milwaukee M18 Fuel 2-Tool Combo Kit

Plantronics 88120-41 M165 Marque 2...

BESTSELLER NO. 1 SALE

DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Drill Combo Kit,...

BESTSELLER NO. 2 SALE

DEWALT 20V (DCK940D2) Max Cordless Drill...

BESTSELLER NO. 3 SALE

Ryobi P884 18-Volt ONE+ Lithium-Ion...

Example Of Assistive Technology

Image from: www.wheelchairdriver.com

Vive Stand Assist - Mobility Standing...

RMS 7-Piece Hip Knee Replacement Kit...

Bottom Buddy Toilet Tissue Wiping Aid ::...

Example Of Medical Technology

TAP 20™ for Point-of-Care Testing – SeventhSense

– It’s painless for the patient.

Examples Of Information Technology

NETGEAR Nighthawk Pro WiFi Router

NETGEAR Nighthawk Smart WiFi Router...

BESTSELLER NO. 2 SALE

TP-Link AC1750 Smart WiFi Router - Dual...

TP-Link AC1200 WiFi Router - Dual Band...

Example Of Entertainment Technology

BESTSELLER NO. 1 SALE

Hercules DJControl Inpulse 200 |...

Numark DJ2GO2 | Ultra Portable Two...

Magma DJ Controller Workstation NV -...

Example Of Business Technology

3D Printer – Created by formlabs

BESTSELLER NO. 1 SALE

Comgrow Creality Ender 3 Pro 3D Printer...

BESTSELLER NO. 2 SALE

Comgrow Creality Ender 3 3D Printer...

JGMAKER Magic 3D Printer DIY Kit with...

Education technology aims at improving a students performance by creating and managing various

– It motivates students and encourages individual learning.

Example Of Education Technology

ABC Kids - Tracing & Phonics

Alphabet Aquarium Vol 1: Animated Puzzle...

PBS KIDS Games

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN TECHNOLOGY AND SCIENCE?

TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPS AND EXPLAINS THE HUMAN-MADE WORLD; IT

SCIENCE EXPLAINS THE NATURAL WORLD; SCIENCE REFERS TO SYSTEMATIC

ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF TECHNOLOGY?

Advantages Of Technology In Business

Disadvantages Of Technology In Business

Advantages Of Technology In The Classroom

Disadvantages Of Technology In The Classroom

HOW TO SOLVE PROBLEMS USING TECHNOLOGY?

Develop an understanding of the problem through observation.

Identifying A Technological Problem

Evaluating The Solution