NST2602 Assignment
3 (COMPLETE
ANSWERS) 2025 - DUE
27 July 2025
NO PLAGIARISM
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,Exam (elaborations)
NST2602 Assignment 3 (COMPLETE
ANSWERS) 2025 - DUE 27 July 2025
Course
Natural Science and Technology for Classroom IV (NST2602)
Institution
University Of South Africa (Unisa)
Book
New Natural Science and Technology
NST2602 Assignment 3 (COMPLETE ANSWERS) 2025 - DUE 27 July 2025;
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Question 1 [30 marks] 1.1 Define innovation in the context of technological
advancement and provide two modern-day examples that demonstrate its
impact on society. (2) 1.2 How can Indigenous Knowledge Systems
contribute to solving contemporary environmental problems? (3) 1.3 Outline
the phases of problem-solving in technology education and explain how each
supports creative thinking. (5) 1.4 What is procedural knowledge, and how
does it differ from conceptual knowledge in the context of learning
technology? (3) 1.5 Discuss how integrating Indigenous practices into design
thinking can influence the outcome of engineering projects. (2) 1.6 Highlight
two significant milestones in the evolution of African iron-smelting
technologies and their role in technological heritage. (4) 1.7 Why is it
essential to develop analytical thinking skills in the design process? Support
your answer with one example. (3) 1.8 Compare the influence of Chinese and
Egyptian ancient technologies on modern innovations. (4) 1.9 Explain how
traditional customs can shape the adoption of new technologies in diverse
societies. (4)
1.1 Define innovation in the context of technological advancement and provide
two modern-day examples that demonstrate its impact on society.
(2 marks)
Innovation refers to the process of creating new or improved technologies, products, or methods
that solve problems or enhance life. In the context of technological advancement, it drives
societal progress by introducing practical solutions.
Examples:
, 1. Electric vehicles (EVs): Reduce carbon emissions and reliance on fossil fuels.
2. Smartphones: Revolutionised communication, education, and access to information
globally.
1.2 How can Indigenous Knowledge Systems contribute to solving contemporary
environmental problems?
(3 marks)
Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) promote sustainable and holistic approaches to
environmental management. IKS includes centuries-old practices that align with nature, such as
crop rotation, rainwater harvesting, and natural pest control.
For example, agroforestry practiced by indigenous communities helps preserve biodiversity,
maintain soil fertility, and combat climate change through reforestation.
1.3 Outline the phases of problem-solving in technology education and explain
how each supports creative thinking.
(5 marks)
1. Identify the problem: Recognising a need encourages learners to observe and question
the world around them.
2. Investigate: Researching existing solutions promotes curiosity and critical comparison.
3. Design: Creating sketches and plans allows for the expression of original ideas.
4. Make: Constructing prototypes encourages hands-on experimentation and adaptation.
5. Evaluate and communicate: Reflecting on outcomes builds analytical and
communication skills.
Each phase encourages divergent thinking and allows learners to creatively approach
and refine their solutions.
1.4 What is procedural knowledge, and how does it differ from conceptual
knowledge in the context of learning technology?
(3 marks)
Procedural knowledge is knowing how to do something—e.g., using tools, following steps in a
design process.
Conceptual knowledge is understanding why something works—e.g., knowing the principles of
force or material properties.
In technology learning, procedural knowledge enables action, while conceptual knowledge
enhances reasoning and innovation.
, 1.5 Discuss how integrating Indigenous practices into design thinking can
influence the outcome of engineering projects.
(2 marks)
Integrating Indigenous practices encourages sustainability, community involvement, and
respect for local ecosystems. For example, using biodegradable materials inspired by
traditional housing can lead to environmentally friendly engineering solutions. This improves
both cultural relevance and ecological impact.
1.6 Highlight two significant milestones in the evolution of African iron-smelting
technologies and their role in technological heritage.
(4 marks)
1. Nok civilisation (Nigeria, ~1000 BCE): Developed some of the earliest iron-smelting
furnaces, showing advanced metallurgical skills.
2. Great Zimbabwe (11th–15th centuries): Used iron tools for construction and
agriculture, boosting trade and infrastructure.
These milestones reflect Africa’s innovative past and contribute to a rich technological
heritage rooted in self-reliance and craftsmanship.
1.7 Why is it essential to develop analytical thinking skills in the design process?
Support your answer with one example.
(3 marks)
Analytical thinking enables learners to break down complex problems, assess materials, predict
outcomes, and make informed decisions.
Example: When designing a water filter, students must analyse contaminants, materials (like
charcoal or sand), and cost-effectiveness to create a working solution.
1.8 Compare the influence of Chinese and Egyptian ancient technologies on
modern innovations.
(4 marks)
Chinese influence: Inventions like paper, the compass, and gunpowder are foundational to
global communication, navigation, and engineering.
Egyptian influence: Known for pyramidal architecture, irrigation systems, and early