STS Lesson 1: Introduction to STS

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Questions and Answers

What has been a significant impact of human activity on the nitrogen cycle?

The progress of the nitrogen cycle is unaffected by human intervention.

Human activity has remained constant over 2.5 billion years.

Human activity had the biggest impact on the nitrogen cycle for 2.5 billion years. (correct)

Nitrogen levels in soils have decreased due to fertilizer use.

What is primarily responsible for the rapid increase in Earth's average surface temperature over the past century?

Greenhouse gases released by burning fossil fuels. (correct)

Natural climatic variations.

The introduction of renewable energy sources.

Improved agricultural practices.

What indicates the widespread effects of human activities on sedimentary processes?

Building of natural habitats.

Preservation of coastal ecosystems.

Mining and dam-building activities. (correct)

Reduction in landfill usage.

What term is used to describe the point at which a species is considered extinct?

The last remaining member of a species dies. Signup and view all the answers

What is projected to happen due to the rise in average global sea levels?

Decrease in living standards in coastal regions. Signup and view all the answers

What does STS primarily investigate regarding science and technology?

Global perspectives of cultural engagement Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following values is NOT part of the Thomasian core values?

Integrity Signup and view all the answers

What is the main call to action in Pope Francis's encyclical 'Laudato Si'?

To address ecological crises and environmental care Signup and view all the answers

What is referred to as the Human Revolution in terms of human history?

The emergence of language, consciousness, and culture in Homo sapiens Signup and view all the answers

Which statement about the early period of human history is accurate?

The Stone Age marks the early period called by historians. Signup and view all the answers

What significant feature contributed to the tool-making capabilities of early humans?

Large complex brains for tool creation and usage Signup and view all the answers

What does the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) action campaign represent?

A global agenda to address urgent challenges Signup and view all the answers

Where did the first humans emerge according to historical findings?

Africa Signup and view all the answers

What was one of the main uses of animal hides by Paleolithic women?

For sewing clothing and constructing shelters Signup and view all the answers

What type of shelters were commonly built by Paleolithic people in cold climates?

Shelters made of ice and snow Signup and view all the answers

What was a significant technological advancement during the Paleolithic era?

Flint technology for making sharp tools Signup and view all the answers

What role did Paleolithic women primarily serve in their communities?

Gatherers and caretakers of children Signup and view all the answers

What does STS primarily explore?

The interplay between science, technology, and society. Signup and view all the answers

How did early humans benefit from the use of fire?

It allowed them to smoke and store meat Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes the nature of work between Paleolithic men and women?

They worked together to provide for themselves and their families. Signup and view all the answers

When did STS gain prominence and why?

In the 1970s focusing on social impacts of technology. Signup and view all the answers

Which method was used by Paleolithic people to create sparks for starting fires?

Using flint against another hard stone Signup and view all the answers

Which disciplines contribute to the study of STS?

Sociology, history, and anthropology. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best describes the historical perspective of STS?

It was developed in response to fears about nuclear power and environmentalism. Signup and view all the answers

What was a characteristic of the spoken language of early humans?

It was constantly growing and changing. Signup and view all the answers

How does STS influence the understanding of scientific research?

It shapes understanding through societal values and beliefs. Signup and view all the answers

What role does technology play in STS?

It provides a framework for creating communication systems. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a focus of STS?

Studying the emotional responses to scientific reports. Signup and view all the answers

What is a central aim of science as discussed in STS?

To understand the societal impact of science and technology. Signup and view all the answers

What does the Social Construction of Technology (SCOT) theory emphasize?

Technology is shaped by social factors. Signup and view all the answers

Which theory argues that technology drives societal change?

Technological Determinism Signup and view all the answers

How does STS promote public engagement in scientific decision-making?

By ensuring democratic and informed societal choices Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the relationship between science and society as discussed in STS?

Societal values directly affect scientific research and communication. Signup and view all the answers

What role does media play in the context of STS?

Media shapes public understanding of science and technology. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main goal of effective science communication in STS?

To increase public understanding of science and technology. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately reflects the dynamic between technological features and social practices?

There is an interplay between technological features and social practices. Signup and view all the answers

What does STS call for in the decision-making processes regarding new technologies?

Inclusion of diverse perspectives and values. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Introduction to STS

STS examines the dynamic relationships between science, technology, and society, reflecting their interdependence.
Encompasses a wide range of disciplines, including natural, formal, and social sciences that influence daily life.
Emerged in the late 1960s, addressing concerns over the societal implications of scientific advancements.
Became a recognized academic field in the 1980s and 1990s, integrating insights from sociology, history, philosophy, and anthropology.
Key concepts include the Social Construction of Technology (SCOT) theory, which posits that technology is shaped by social contexts and norms.
Technological Determinism theory suggests technology drives societal change and structures.
Emphasizes the need for diverse perspectives in technology adoption and decision-making processes.
Highlights the importance of effective science communication to bridge gaps between scientists and the public for informed engagement.

Global Perspectives in STS

Acknowledges the interconnectedness of science, technology, and society on a global scale.
Investigates how cultural differences affect perceptions and engagements with scientific and technological advances.
The SEAL of Thomasian Education emphasizes values formation and community engagement in student development.
Promotes the Thomasian values of Competence, Commitment, and Compassion in leadership initiatives.

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Represents a global agenda to tackle pressing social, economic, and environmental challenges.

Scientific Revolution and Human Origins

Toolmaking predates the Homo genus, indicating early human innovation and interaction with the environment.
The Human Revolution marks the emergence of language, culture, and consciousness in Homo sapiens sapiens.
Early humans existed alongside other hominids, utilizing tools shaped by their large brains for survival.
Development of sharper and smaller tools during the Paleolithic Age enhanced hunting and gathering efficiency.
Equity between genders likely existed, as both men and women contributed to food gathering and shelter-making.
Fire was first harnessed by Paleolithic humans for warmth and cooking, revolutionizing food preservation.

The Dark Side of Technology

Advances in technology can lead to negative outcomes, termed "wildcards," which can derail positive societal progress.
Human activities significantly affect natural processes, leaving lasting impacts on geological layers.
Rapid increase in the use of fertilizers over the last century has dramatically altered nutrient levels in soils.

Global Warming and Environmental Impact

The last century has seen an unprecedented rise in Earth's average surface temperature, largely due to greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuel combustion.
Rising global sea levels have reached unprecedented heights, impacting ecosystems in ways that will be documented for future generations.
The current epoch, known as the Anthropocene, is characterized by mass extinctions precipitated by human-driven changes to the planet.

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Description

Explore the intricate relationships between science, technology, and society in this introductory lesson. Understand how social, cultural, political, and economic contexts shape, and are shaped by, these elements. Engage with the interdisciplinary study of these interactions to gain a broader perspective on STS.