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

1. As an Idea: Theories and explanations about natural phenomena.

2. As an Intellectual Activity: Systematic study and experimentation.

3. As a Body of Knowledge: Organized discipline of scientific understanding.

4. 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.