Introduction to STS: Science, Technology, Society
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What is the primary focus of studying science, technology, and society?

  • To understand historical scientific discoveries only.
  • To analyze the impact of technology on the environment.
  • To understand and shape the complex relationships between science, technology, and society. (correct)
  • To develop new scientific theories.
  • What should always be the main goal of science and technology?

  • To advance personal wealth and power.
  • To serve the greater good of society. (correct)
  • To serve political goals.
  • To maximize technological advancements.
  • What anthropological term refers to the region where the Mayan civilization developed?

  • Mesoamerica (correct)
  • Mesopotamia
  • Andes
  • Indus Valley
  • What period is considered the peak of Mayan civilization, marked by the rise of great cities?

    <p>The Classic Period (250-900 CE) (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of these was a major contribution of the Mayan civilization to mathematics?

    <p>The use of zero in their base-20 numerical system. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the name of the 260-day calendar developed by the Mayans?

    <p>Tzolkin (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the significance of the fact that millions of Mayans still speak more than 30 Mayan languages?

    <p>It reflects their enduring cultural legacy despite some cities being abandoned. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What did the Mayan civilization evolve from?

    <p>Nomadic farmers. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes the origin of the term 'science'?

    <p>A Latin term meaning 'knowledge'. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary focus of technology, as described in the presentation?

    <p>The application of scientific knowledge to solve practical problems. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do cultural values interact with technological advancement, according to the presentation?

    <p>Cultural values play a role in shaping technological developments. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one way technology has impacted communication?

    <p>It has transformed how people connect, share information and collaborate. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Based on the presentation, how do science and technology contribute to economic growth?

    <p>They create new industries and opportunities. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a key aspect of studying the interdisciplinary field of STS?

    <p>Understanding the ethical and social implications of new technologies. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How has technology influenced the field of healthcare?

    <p>By introducing new life-saving medical treatments and devices. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the context of STS, what is meant by 'society'?

    <p>Groups of people sharing cultural, social, and political systems that are influenced by science and technology. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What method did the Mayans use for recording history and myths?

    <p>Hieroglyphic writing system (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which civilization is known for creating a 40,000 km road network?

    <p>Incans (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What agricultural innovation did the Aztecs develop to ensure a steady food supply?

    <p>Chinampas (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the original purpose of gunpowder in ancient China?

    <p>Fireworks (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following was a key advancement in Incan medicine?

    <p>Surgical techniques (C), Herbal remedies (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the purpose of the seismograph invented by the Chinese?

    <p>To predict natural disasters (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which civilization is credited with the invention of the compass for navigation?

    <p>Chinese (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was one of the primary uses of quipu in the Incan civilization?

    <p>Census data recording (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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    Flashcards

    Science

    A systematic and methodical activity of building and organizing knowledge about how the universe behaves through observation, experimentation, or both.

    Technology

    The application of scientific knowledge, laws, and principles to produce services, materials, tools, and machines aimed at solving real-world problems.

    Society

    Groups of people sharing cultural, social, and political systems that influence and are influenced by science and technology.

    Why study STS?

    Examining the relationship between science, technology, and society helps us understand how cultural values, political systems, and social structures shape technological advancements.

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    Why study STS? (cont.)

    This field allows us to evaluate the ethical and social implications of new technologies and find ways to use them to address global challenges.

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    Why study STS? (cont.)

    Studying STS provides the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about the role of science and technology in creating a sustainable and equitable future.

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    Impact of STS on Healthcare

    Technological advancements have revolutionized healthcare by introducing new medical treatments, life-saving devices, and improved diagnostic tools.

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    Impact of STS on Communication

    The development of the Internet and mobile devices has transformed the way people connect, share information, and collaborate across the globe.

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    The Mayan Civilization

    The Mayans, inhabiting Mesoamerica since 2000 BCE, transitioned from nomadic farmers to a stratified society governed by nobles and kings. Their peak, the Classic Period (250-900 CE), witnessed the rise of prominent cities like Chichen Itza and Uxmal. However, by 900 CE, many cities were abandoned for reasons that remain unclear. Today, millions of Mayans still speak over 30 Mayan languages, highlighting their enduring cultural impact.

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    Mayan Calendars

    The Mayans developed two calendars: the Tzolkin (260-day) and Haab (365-day), based on meticulous celestial observations. These calendars served as a crucial part of their social structure, guiding agricultural practices and religious ceremonies.

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    Mayan Concept of Zero

    The Mayans innovated the use of zero in their base-20 numerical system. This was a groundbreaking discovery that significantly influenced the development of modern mathematics.

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    Science, Technology, and Society (STS)

    The study of Science, Technology, and Society explores the interconnectedness between these domains. It investigates how scientific knowledge and technological advancements influence society and vice versa.

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    Scientific Revolutions

    In the context of science and technology history, advancements across time are often referred to as 'revolutions'. These periods represent significant changes in scientific understanding and technological progress.

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    Mesoamerica

    Mesoamerica encompasses a region spanning modern-day Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, and parts of Central America. These cultures shared many traditions and advancements, making it a fascinating study area for understanding the development of early civilizations.

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    Antecedents of Science and Technology

    The term 'antecedents' refers to the origins or precursors of something. In the context of science and technology, it refers to the early developments and influences that led to later advancements.

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    Cradles of Early Science

    The term 'cradles of early science' refers to civilizations that played a pivotal role in the development of early scientific knowledge and technological innovations. These civilizations laid the foundation for later scientific advancements.

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    Mayan Astronomy

    Mayan astronomers made precise predictions of eclipses and planetary movements by meticulously studying the skies and developing detailed celestial charts.

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    Mayan Writing System

    The Mayan writing system was a complex set of hieroglyphs used to record history, myths, and laws. It was essential for preserving their culture and knowledge for future generations.

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    Incan Road System

    The Incan Road System stretched across 40,000 km, connecting the vast empire. It featured impressive hanging bridges and paved roads, allowing for efficient communication, trade, and military movement.

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    Quipu (Knotted Records)

    Quipus were knotted strings used by Incan administrators to record information like census data, accounting, and taxes. Each knot represented a specific number or value, making it a unique accounting system.

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    Incan Terrace Farming

    Terraces carved into hillsides allowed the Incas to cultivate food in high-altitude regions. They provided flat platforms for planting, improved irrigation, and prevented erosion.

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    Chinampas (Floating Gardens)

    Chinampas were man-made islands built in lakes using mud and reeds. This ingenious technique provided fertile land for growing crops and ensured a stable food supply for the Aztecs.

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    Aztec Chocolate Production

    The Aztecs developed delicious cacao-based beverages that were essential in religious ceremonies and trade. Chocolate was a symbol of wealth and power in their culture.

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    Chinese Compass

    The compass, originally used for Feng Shui, later revolutionized navigation. Sailors used it to find directions at sea, enabling exploration and trade routes.

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    Study Notes

    Introduction to Science, Technology, and Society (STS)

    • STS explores the interconnectedness of science, technology, and society
    • Students will define these concepts and understand their interrelationships
    • The presentation aims to explain the scope of the interdisciplinary field of STS

    Key Concepts

    • Science: A systematic and methodical pursuit of knowledge about the universe, encompassing observation and experimentation.
    • Technology: The application of scientific knowledge to create tools, processes, and systems for solving problems and improving life. Derived from the Greek word "techne," meaning art, skill, or cunning.
    • Society: Groups of people sharing cultural, social, and political systems. These systems influence, and are influenced by, science and technology.

    Why Study STS?

    • Understanding the relationship between science, technology, and society is crucial to comprehend how cultural values, political systems, and social structures shape technological advancements.
    • Evaluating ethical and social implications of new technologies assists in addressing global challenges.
    • Studying STS equips individuals with the knowledge for informed decisions about the role of science and technology in creating sustainable and equitable futures.

    Impact of STS

    • Healthcare: Advances in treatments, life-saving devices, and diagnostic tools have revolutionized healthcare.
    • Communication: The Internet and mobile technologies have transformed information sharing and global interactions.
    • Economy: Science and technology are key drivers of economic growth through innovation, industries, and job opportunities.
    • Education: Technology has increased access to education with online courses and digital resources.
    • Environment: Renewable energy and green technology offer solutions to mitigate climate change.

    Conclusion

    • The study of STS provides tools to understand intricate relationships between science, technology, and society.
    • By exploring how scientific knowledge and technological innovations impact society, informed decisions can foster a sustainable and positive future.
    • Science and technology should always serve the greater good of society.

    Lesson 2: Cradels of Early Science

    • This lesson summarizes the development of science and technology in early civilizations.
    • Key learning objectives include identifying antecedents of science/technology, tracing scientific revolutions, and understanding how societies shaped and were shaped by technological innovations.

    Introduction to Early Science and Technology

    • Science and technology have been crucial in shaping civilizations.
    • Early societies developed innovative solutions to enhance daily life.

    Development of Science and Technology in Mesoamerica

    • Mesoamerica encompasses Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, and parts of Central America.
    • Shared cultural traditions and advancements characterize the region.

    Mayan Civilization

    • The Mayans, originating in Mesoamerica around 2000 BCE, transitioned from nomadic farmers to a hierarchical society ruled by nobles and kings.
    • The Classic Period (250-900 CE) marked the height of their civilization, featuring urban centers like Chichen Itza and Uxmal.
    • Evidence shows that the Mayans were sophisticated mathematically and astronomically, as evidenced by calendars, zero concept, and predictions of eclipses.
    • Their influence on the development of writing systems and methods of weaving are also shown.

    Mayan Discoveries/Technologies

    • Developed the Tzolkin (260-day) and Haab (365-day) calendars based on astronomy
    • Pioneered the concept of zero and the base-20 numerical system.
    • Created a hieroglyphic writing system for recording history, myths, and laws.
    • Accurately predicted eclipses and planetary movements through detailed celestial studies.
    • Developed looms for weaving cloth.

    Incan Discoveries/Technologies

    • Constructed a vast 40,000 km road network across their empire, using bridges.
    • Utilized knotted strings (Quipus) for communication, record-keeping, and accounting.
    • Created advanced agricultural systems, such as terrace farming, with sophisticated irrigation.
    • Developed medicinal practices, including surgical and herbal treatments.

    Aztec Discoveries/Technologies

    • Created artificial islands (chinampas) for farming, ensuring consistent food supply.
    • Developed cacao-based beverages for use in rituals and trade.

    Chinese Discoveries/Technologies

    • Invented the compass for Feng Shui and navigation.
    • Developed gunpowder initially for fireworks and later warfare.
    • Created a seismograph for detecting and predicting earthquakes.
    • Revolutionized communication with paper production and movable-type printing.

    Conclusion (Early Science and Technology)

    • Discoveries and innovations of Mesoamerican, Incan, Aztec, and Chinese civilizations demonstrate ingenuity and understanding of the world.
    • They laid foundations for modern science, engineering, and culture, inspiring advancements today.

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    Description

    This quiz delves into the interdisciplinary field of Science, Technology, and Society (STS). Students will explore key concepts such as the definitions of science, technology, and society, along with their interrelationships. Understanding STS is essential for grasping how these elements influence and shape each other.

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