HSC CAFS – Social Impact of Technology

What is Technology?

Methods, systems, and devices developed through scientific knowledge to solve problems and improve human life.

Primitive Technology

Simple, traditional tools without electricity, such as stone tools and smoke signals.

Complex Technology

Advanced tools requiring power or digital systems, such as smartphones, AI, and medical devices.

Hardware

Physical tools and devices like appliances and gadgets.

Software

Applications and digital programs like social media and operating systems.

RESTIC

An acronym for reasons behind technological advancements: Response to Social Problems, Economic Benefit, Social Betterment, Transport & Travel, Improve Upon Existing Technology, Consumer Demand.

R – Response to Social Problems

Technology develops to address societal issues, improving health and education.

E – Economic Benefit

Technology increases efficiency and profits, supporting economic wellbeing but can create job insecurity.

S – Social Betterment

Technology enhances quality of life, improving physical and emotional wellbeing.

T – Transport & Travel

Innovations in mobility and logistics that improve wellbeing but may contribute to pollution.

I – Improve Upon Existing Technology

Constant upgrading leads to enhanced social and economic wellbeing but increases e-waste.

C – Consumer Demand

Technology meets changing expectations of consumers, improving convenience but may increase dependency.

EGGRACED

An acronym explaining factors affecting access to and acceptance of technology: Education, Geographic Location, Gender, Religion, Age, Culture, Economic Status, Disability.

E – Education (EGGRACED)

Higher education allows for better access to technology, impacting social and economic opportunities.

G – Geographic Location (EGGRACED)

Access to technology varies; rural areas often have less access, affecting economic opportunities.

G – Gender (EGGRACED)

Gender influences access and acceptance of technology, with stereotypes impacting engagement.

R – Religion (EGGRACED)

Some religions restrict technology use, while faith-based apps can increase acceptance.

A – Age (EGGRACED)

Younger generations access technology more easily, while older individuals may resist complex tech.

C – Culture (EGGRACED)

Cultural attitudes influence acceptance of technology, impacting its perceived benefits.

E – Economic Status (EGGRACED)

Wealthier individuals have more access to technology, while cost barriers limit benefits for lower-income groups.

D – Disability (EGGRACED)

Assistive technology improves access, with acceptance depending on perceived usefulness.

HIE

Household Technology acronym: Household Appliances, ICT, Entertainment Technologies.

Food & Nutrition (FELTH)

Technology improves access to food but can lead to unhealthy choices.

Education (FELTH)

Technology expands learning opportunities but can increase screen time.

Leisure and entertainment (FELTH)

enhances social connectivity, accessibility, and wellbeing through digital media, gaming, fitness apps, and virtual experiences, but requires balance to prevent negative effects.

Transport & Mobility (FELTH)

Technology improves accessibility but can be costly.

Health & Wellbeing (FELTH)

Technology improves medical care but may reduce in-person interactions.

HEEFE

A framework for workplace technology's impact: Health & Safety, Equipment, Efficiency, Flexibility, Education & Training.

Safety Technology (SIIS)

Refers to advancements such as AI-powered surveillance and drones for enhancing safety.