NST2602
ASSIGNMENT 3 2025
DUE: 27 JULY 2025 (MEMO)
,NST2602 Assignment 3 2025
DUE 27 JULY 2025
Question 1
1.1 Explain the meaning of technology and provide examples of its uses in
society.
Technology originates from the Greek terms techné (meaning skill or craft) and
logos (meaning study), referring to the practical use of knowledge and ability to
create tools or systems that address human challenges (DBE, 2024). Essentially,
technology encompasses innovations developed by people to make life more
efficient and solve real-world problems.
The Department of Basic Education explains technology as the use of human
intellect, skills, values, and resources to satisfy human needs by creating effective
and responsible solutions. It blends tools, practices, and knowledge that shape how
individuals interact with each other and their surroundings.
In daily life, technology influences many aspects including:
Communication e.g., cell phones, internet platforms,
Health care e.g., diagnostic machines, telemedicine,
Education e.g., e-learning systems),
Transportation e.g., electric vehicles, fast trains),
Agriculture e.g., irrigation technologies, biotech crops), and
Industry e.g., robotics, automated systems).
Despite its benefits, technology can also have negative effects, including
environmental damage, reduced social interaction, unequal access, and concerns
around personal data (NST2602, 2024).
1.2 Role of Indigenous Knowledge Systems in Technological Advancement
, Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) refer to wisdom developed by communities
over generations, tailored to their specific environments and lived experiences
(Maluleke et al., 2006). Typically shared through stories, observation, rituals, and
hands-on practice, IKS represents a valuable foundation for sustainable technology.
IKS contributes to innovation by promoting
Eco-friendly solutions e.g., traditional farming and conservation),
Culturally relevant practices aligned with community values,
Knowledge that evolves over time through practical experience,
Responsible natural resource management, and
Alternative healthcare using natural remedies.
Although highly valuable, IKS is threatened by modern developments that often
ignore or replace it. Its loss could mean the disappearance of effective, low-cost
technologies and environmental stewardship traditions (NST2602, 2024).
To protect and promote IKS, South Africa's education system includes it in the
curriculum, encouraging learners to value traditional knowledge while tackling
contemporary technological problems (DBE, 2024).
1.3 Key Stages in the Technological Design Process
The design process in technology education involves a repeatable set of steps
aimed at solving problems efficiently. The steps are
Problem Identification: Recognise and define the challenge needing a solution.
Investigation: Conduct research to understand the issue and possible
limitations or available resources.
Designing: Create and develop possible solutions through sketches, diagrams,
and models.
Making: Construct prototypes using selected tools and materials.
ASSIGNMENT 3 2025
DUE: 27 JULY 2025 (MEMO)
,NST2602 Assignment 3 2025
DUE 27 JULY 2025
Question 1
1.1 Explain the meaning of technology and provide examples of its uses in
society.
Technology originates from the Greek terms techné (meaning skill or craft) and
logos (meaning study), referring to the practical use of knowledge and ability to
create tools or systems that address human challenges (DBE, 2024). Essentially,
technology encompasses innovations developed by people to make life more
efficient and solve real-world problems.
The Department of Basic Education explains technology as the use of human
intellect, skills, values, and resources to satisfy human needs by creating effective
and responsible solutions. It blends tools, practices, and knowledge that shape how
individuals interact with each other and their surroundings.
In daily life, technology influences many aspects including:
Communication e.g., cell phones, internet platforms,
Health care e.g., diagnostic machines, telemedicine,
Education e.g., e-learning systems),
Transportation e.g., electric vehicles, fast trains),
Agriculture e.g., irrigation technologies, biotech crops), and
Industry e.g., robotics, automated systems).
Despite its benefits, technology can also have negative effects, including
environmental damage, reduced social interaction, unequal access, and concerns
around personal data (NST2602, 2024).
1.2 Role of Indigenous Knowledge Systems in Technological Advancement
, Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) refer to wisdom developed by communities
over generations, tailored to their specific environments and lived experiences
(Maluleke et al., 2006). Typically shared through stories, observation, rituals, and
hands-on practice, IKS represents a valuable foundation for sustainable technology.
IKS contributes to innovation by promoting
Eco-friendly solutions e.g., traditional farming and conservation),
Culturally relevant practices aligned with community values,
Knowledge that evolves over time through practical experience,
Responsible natural resource management, and
Alternative healthcare using natural remedies.
Although highly valuable, IKS is threatened by modern developments that often
ignore or replace it. Its loss could mean the disappearance of effective, low-cost
technologies and environmental stewardship traditions (NST2602, 2024).
To protect and promote IKS, South Africa's education system includes it in the
curriculum, encouraging learners to value traditional knowledge while tackling
contemporary technological problems (DBE, 2024).
1.3 Key Stages in the Technological Design Process
The design process in technology education involves a repeatable set of steps
aimed at solving problems efficiently. The steps are
Problem Identification: Recognise and define the challenge needing a solution.
Investigation: Conduct research to understand the issue and possible
limitations or available resources.
Designing: Create and develop possible solutions through sketches, diagrams,
and models.
Making: Construct prototypes using selected tools and materials.
