Research Questions
TED226- Dr. Larry Horath
I. Bio-technology
A. Select a bio-related technology and discuss the ethics associated with its development.
B. In the area of bio-medical research, discuss how technology has improved the quality of life.
C. Discuss the future applications of cloning and the reasons for pursuing or NOT pursuing them.
D. Discuss how technology has been used to enhance peoples' abilities.
II. Communication
A. Discuss the uses and abuses of the Internet.
B. Select an application of virtual reality and its possible future developments.
C. How has technology affected language and its use in communications?
D. Discuss how technology has and will be used to assist the visual, hearing, and speech-impaired.
E. Describe the impacts that communication technology has had on global economics.
III. Construction
A. Describe how and what you would use to construct a future space station to hold a colony of 500 people.
B. Given the limitations of aboveground construction, describe how you would develop underground cities.
C. Discuss how technology can be used to make structures less susceptible to earthquake damage.
D. Describe the applications of advanced technical materials, such as polymers, composites, and engineered lumber, in construction.
E. Discuss how technology is used to help ensure the safety of the worker.
IV. Manufacturing
A. Define the terms quality and value as they relate to manufactured goods and services.
B. Define manufacturing. Give three examples of the use of technology in manufacturing.
C. Does technology replace employees? Defend your answer.
D. Is the United States the world's manufacturing leader? Why or why not?
E. How has technology affected manufacturing in terms of quality, cost, production, and labor?
2 V. Transportation
A. Describe the pros and cons of current transportation systems under development, which use renewable energy sources.
B. Technology has increased the speed and reliability of personal transportation. What have been the effects of these advancements on society?
C. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of public mass transportation systems.
D. Describe three methods of transportation and the effects technology has had on each.
E. What do you feel is currently the safest mode of transportation? Why?