Communications
technology improves and enables interaction between
humans or other agents. An example of a communications technology
artifact is a radio where people tune in to hear live broadcasts by
another person. Two computers networked to one another is a good
example of two agents communicating. We live in the information
era. With the computer and the advent of the internet much
information is available in a matter of seconds. However,
communications technology is not limited to computers and the
internet. Technology simply refers to adapting the world to
better meet our needs and wants. Communications technology
stems back to the beginning (whenever that was!) Communications
technology artifacts include such things as tools used to make rock
etchings (former chisel and mallet), forming smoke signals, the
printing press, telegraph, and 8-track tape players. Yes, a
caveman tapping a
homemade wooden hammer into a sharpened stone to engraven an image on
his cave wall is technology! It was innovative! He
could chisel pictures for all of his friends to see, and they could
respond with a drawing of their own! Both the computer and
the caveman's hammer and chisel are technologically innovative.
The difference is that the computer is considered high tech or cutting
edge technology! But is the computer anymore amazing to us than
the hammer and chisel was to the caveman? I doubt it!
By completing the
assignment contained in this WebQuest you will
become
an expert on an artifact related to communications
technology!
Task
You are given the
opportunity to become an expert on a historical
innovation or invention related to communication technology. Exploring
alone, you will research and discover everything there is to know about
the particular artifact related to communications.
After thoroughly researching your chosen invention or innovation you
will complete the information sheet in the WebQuest.
After obtaining approval from the teacher you will design and develop
an information sheet and a PowerPoint presentation to present to the
class. By completing the informational assignment,
you will become an expert on the particular technology.
Remember...use the internet as your primary search tool because it is,
after all, one of the latest technological developments! The Resources below
will help you. However, you may use any valid and
reliable website or other resource to find your information.
Procedure
1. Inform yourself
on the technological possibilities
through
research.
2. Complete the informational assignment on the artifact.
3. Submit the
informational assignment for approval and evaluation.
4. Design an attractive information sheet.
5. Prepare PowerPoint presentation.
6. Present your PowerPoint and information sheet to the class.
