The Nature of Technology Strand Explanatory Papers Updated May 2010
Characteristics of Technological Outcomes
Illustrative Examples from Technology
The malfunctioning of the O-rings in the Space Shuttle Challenger in 1986 provides a dramatic context to explore issues around the physical and functional nature of technological outcomes, and the way in which technological products make up an interconnected technological system. Understanding how products interact within a wider system, when designed to meet specific environmental parameters is crucial to successful function. In this case, while the O-rings were fit for purpose within specific environmental parameters, they malfunctioned when these were exceeded. The impact this accident had on the general public, scientists and technologists (at a personal career level and collective community level), NASA, and the American Government are easily accessible for exploration and would provide a rich source to encourage debate.
Sites such as the FAS Space Policy Project and the Challenger Disaster – a NASA tragedy are just two of many informative sources available.
The role of end-users in developing alternative functions and stimulating innovative redesigning is well captured in many New Zealand examples of technological outcomes. Finding new functions for existing materials and/or developing new materials to enhance performance are also strong features of successful technological industries in New Zealand. A range of examples (such as wind turbines, film technologies, car batteries, and electric fence technology) can be used as a focus to explore the dual nature (physical and functional) of technological outcomes. Sources such as IPENZ's e.nz magazine, numerous internet sites, and current items in news media can all be used to provide New Zealand-based resources with varying depths of information.