Technology is the application of knowledge to create new products and services, solve problems, or improve existing ones. Technology encompasses a wide variety of fields, from mechanical engineering to information processing and communications. Examples of technology include computers, mobile phones, the Internet, and robots.
Technology provides the eyes and ears of science, as well as some of its muscle. It helps with measuring, data collection, sample transportation to remote research sites (such as Antarctica or the ocean floor), treatment of samples, and communication. It has also been a key driver of scientific research, including on weather systems, human genetics, and other complex issues.
Like any tool, technology has its advantages and disadvantages. Disadvantages include a high price tag and the need for skilled personnel to operate, maintain, and repair it. Another issue is that most technologies impose constraints on how they are used. As a result, they tend to prioritize certain routes and ends while neglecting others. This can be seen in the way digital cameras have replaced film cameras and darkrooms, for example.
Today, students are exposed to a wide range of technologies in the classroom. They use their laptops and mobile phones to access a large amount of learning materials, such as scientific articles, journals, books, tutorial videos, and informational websites. Moreover, they can communicate with other people from different countries through the Internet and stay in touch with their teachers through email and online chat applications.