STS-GROUP-1-DISCOVERY
Historical and Antecedent of Science & Technology
Groups studying the evolution of science and technology.
Evolution of Science and Technology
Examination of key discoveries and innovations over time.
Example: The Wheel (Ancient Mesopotamia, 3500 BCE)
Demonstrates the synergy between science (understanding physics) and technology (creation of the wheel).
History of science and technology reveals how they shaped human civilization.
Definition of Science and Technology
Science
Origin of the word from Latin "scientia," meaning knowledge.
A systematic method involving observation, experimentation, and reasoning.
Technology
Derived from the Greek "techne" (art/skill) and "logia" (study).
Application of scientific knowledge to create tools, systems, and solutions.
Example: The Lycurgus Cup (Roman Empire, 4th Century CE)
Changes color based on light angles, an early example of nanotechnology.
Ways Science is Viewed
As an Idea: Theories and explanations about natural phenomena.
As an Intellectual Activity: Systematic study and experimentation.
As a Body of Knowledge: Organized discipline of scientific understanding.
As a Personal/Social Activity: Tools for real-world problem-solving and improving life.
Antecendents
comes from the latin word “antecedens” meaning going before or precedinging.
refers to earlier discoveries
Example: The Atomic Theory
Key Scientific Concepts
Hypothesis
An educated guess formulated as an "if-then" statement.
Tested with data to be accepted or rejected.
Theory
A well-substantiated explanation from repeated observations.
Example: The Theory of Evolution explains species changes through natural selection.
Paradigm & Paradigm Shifts
Paradigm: A widely accepted scientific framework.
Paradigm Shift: New evidence causing drastic changes in beliefs.
Historical Context: Ancient Civilizations
Discoveries driven by survival needs, trade, warfare, and curiosity.
Ancient civilization contributions laid the groundwork for advancements in science and technology.
Science & Technology in Mesopotamia
Cuneiform Writing
Earliest known writing system using clay tablets for record-keeping.
Facilitated economic transactions, literature, and trade.
Mathematics
Developed a base-60 numeral system influencing time (60 seconds/minute, etc.).
was also used in geometry creating 360 degree circles.
Astronomy
Created lunar calendars and recorded celestial movements aiding eclipse predictions.
Engineering and Architecture
Ziggurats
Pyramid-like structures for religious purposes, built from sun-dried bricks.
Ancient Wheel
Sumerians credited for the wheel, revolutionizing transportation.
Chariots
Sumerians invented chariots, changing military tactics.
Science & Technology in Egypt
Hieroglyphic Writing
Writing on papyrus began around 3000 BCE.
Allowed for more efficient record-keeping than stone tablets.
pith of a plant called cyperus papyrus
Mathematics
Knowledge of geometry for architectural engineering, algebra for solving equations.
Engineering and Architecture
Pyramids
Great Pyramid of Giza showcases engineering precision using ramps and levers.
Shadoof
Ancient irrigation tool used for lifting water, promoting agricultural efficiency.
hand-operated device
Science & Technology in India
Metallurgy
Study of metallic elements and their behaviors; process of extracting metals.
Ayurveda
Ancient health care system emphasizing balance for maintaining health.
“science of life”
Science & Technology in Greece
Antikythera Mechanism
World’s oldest known mechanical computer, predicting astronomical positions.
similar to a clock for it has circular face
Alarm Clock of Plato
Hydraulic device for waking people, a precursor to modern alarm clocks.
First awakening device for people
Archimedes Screw
Device for raising water used in irrigation and hydroelectric power applications.
Medicine
Hippocrates and others advanced clinical observation and surgical techniques.
Greek doctors: Herophilos, Erasistratus
Historical Context: Medieval Times
Often considered the "Dark Ages" with a deterioration of culture and science, yet advancements occurred.
Influences in Medieval Innovations
Military Technologies: Counterweight trebuchet and longbows for warfare.
Agricultural Innovations: Horse harnessing and three-field crop rotation to improve farming.
Medical Advancements: Innovations in ophthalmology and hygiene practices.
Modern Times (1590-1929)
Rapid industrialization requiring greater efficiency in every sector of society.
Innovations in Modern Science & Technology
Compound Microscope
Major advancement in biology and medicine.
Telescope
Critical for astronomy, first invented by Galileo.
Jacquard Loom
Pioneering technology that influenced modern computing.
Engine-Powered Airplane
Credit to the Wright Brothers for demonstrating flight principles.
Television
Invention attributed to John Logie Baird.
Science, Technology, and Nation Building
Historical evolution crucial to shaping economic and social fabric of nations.
Pre-Colonial Philippines
Indigenous knowledge impacted agriculture, architecture, and everyday life.
Colonial Impact
Spanish introduced new crops and technologies.
Establishment of schools and hospitals during colonization.
American Influence
Infrastructure and public health improvements from the American occupation.
Post-Colonial Expansion
Establishment of research institutions and advancements in education and industry.
Conclusion
Science and technology's historical and antecedent developments significantly influenced society's growth and innovation, enhancing education, healthcare, and overall progress.