1
Justification for a New Course
in Emerging Technology
Potential Objectives, Content, and Activities
Tiffany A. Roberts
TED 502
Fall 2003
2
Introduction
It seems as though every day there is a new type of technology that we learn about. These emerging
technologies range from biotech to nanotech to miniature electronics, to NASA related items, to hydrogen fueled
cars and beyond. This paper will take a look at some emerging technologies and offer justification for a new course
entitled “Emerging Technology”. Progressive nations depend upon technology in order to complete daily activities
and thrive in today’s society.
The intended effect of a technology is rarely, if ever, the only impact it has on human life.
Unintended, unknown, and delayed consequences may prove even more important in the long run
than the direct and intended effects. At times, different technologies can have similar unintended
consequences that combine to have a serious impact undreamed of by the users of the technology.
(Lauda, 1975)
The purpose of this paper is to identify course objectives, course content, and activities for a course entitled
“Emerging Technologies”. It will take a glimpse into four proposed major content areas and activities that support
the learning objectives of the course.
Potential Course Objectives

Students will acquire knowledge about various emerging technologies within the present society.

Students will become more aware of positive and negative outcomes that arise from changing technological
cultures.

Students will utilize gained knowledge to research areas of emerging technology and develop hypotheses
regarding future developments.

Students will learn about new processes and materials and develop a decreasing dependency upon natural
materials and knowledge of uses for new materials.

Students will become aware of new career opportunities that are emerging as a result of emerging
technologies.

Students will utilize acquired knowledge to research and develop innovative ideas by putting knowledge
into practice.
3
Content
There are many possibilities in regard to content area for a course about emerging technologies. Four
major content areas for the course would be nanotechnology, biotechnology, miniature electronics, and NASA
developments. In the following section you will find a brief overview of each major area.
nanotechnology
Nanotechnology is the science and technology of building electronic circuits and devices from single atoms
and molecules. Nanotechnology “is used to describe many types of research where the characteristic dimensions are
less than about 1,000 nanometers” (Nanotechnology).
Nanotechnology deals with the molecular make-up and
organization of structures. Future applications will involve manufacturing using atomic structures.
biotechnology
Biotechnology is the use of microorganisms, such as bacteria or yeasts, or biological substances, such as
enzymes, to perform specific industrial or manufacturing processes. Applications include the production of certain
drugs, synthetic hormones, and bulk foodstuffs as well as the bioconversion of organic waste and the use of
genetically altered bacteria in the cleanup of oil spills.
An important area of biotechnology is the area of Biometrics. Biometrics are automated methods of
recognizing a person based on a physiological or behavioral characteristic. The characteristics measured include:
face, fingerprints, hand geometry, handwriting, iris, retinal, vein, and voice. Biometric technologies can be used in
order to identify, authenticate, or verify the identity of a person. Biometric technologies can be used as stand alone
technology or integrated with other technologies such as smart cards, encryption keys, and digital signatures.
Biometrics consists of “an industry that is transitioning from emerging technologies into the necessary tool, which is
part of our daily lives” (Bergman, 2003).
Another key area of growth in the biotech industry is pharmacogenomics. A specific area that is
increasingly growing is the Human Genome Project. It is analysis of DNA for function of discovered genes, it is
designed to sequence all 24 of the human chromosomes. Similarly bioinformatics deal with annotation of genomes.
The simplest tasks used in bioinformatics concern the creation and maintenance of databases of
biological information. Nucleic acid sequences (and the protein sequences derived from them)
comprise the majority of such databases. While the storage and organization of millions of
nucleotides is far from trivial, designing a database and developing an interface whereby
researchers can both access existing information and submit new entries is only the beginning.”
(BioTech: Bioinformatics)
4
miniature electronics
One development in miniature electronics is the RingCam. “The RingCam is an omnidirectional camera,
which captures 360-degrees of video” (RingCam). The RingCam offers a panoramic view of its surroundings.
There is also a RingCam that has an integrated microphone array. Either RingCam would allow distance learning
and conferencing. The RingCam would be an asset to education by allowing for distance learning. It would also be
an intriguing area of study within emerging technologies as it involves many integrated circuits working together to
create a panoramic view achieved through different camera views.
Also in the area of miniature electronics, the PIC Microcontroller is starting to catch on. It is a
programmable microchip that may some day replace the function of most computers. “PIC Microcontrollers are
quickly replacing computers when it comes to programming robotic devices. These microcontrollers are small and
can be programmed to carry out a number of tasks and are ideal for school and industrial projects. A simple program
is written using a computer, it is then downloaded to a microcontroller which in turn can control a robotic device”
(Microcontrollers/Smart Cards) The PIC Microcontroller allows students to put computer programming into
practice. It can be utilized in any electronics course, an engineering course, and the Project Lead the Way courses.
PIC Microcontrollers are small Integrated Circuits (ICs) that can be programmed to control
devices such as small robotic vehicles, alarm circuits and they can mimic almost any circuit
produced in a school workshop. Many devices in the home use programmable chips including;
alarm systems, central heating systems, microwaves and many more. The PIC Microcontroller is
reprogrammable using software called LOGICATOR and if a mistake is made while programming
it can simply be reprogrammed. Alternatively, a completely new program can replace an existing
program already in the PIC Microcontroller. (PIC Microcontrollers)
NASA developments
One of the hot topics associated with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is the
Hubble Space Telescope. The Hubble Telescope orbits the earth and collects data about the earth and space.
“Hubble gathers facts about things in space. Its computers turn the facts into long rows of numbers. The numbers
travel as radio signals to a satellite. It sends them to Goddard. Then it goes to the Space Telescope Science Institute.
The numbers are turned back into pictures and words” (NASA – Hubble Operations). It has many tools including
cameras and spectrographs. “Hubble’s cameras do not use film. They collect light. Spectrographs break up starlight
into a rainbow of colors. Astronomers study the colors. They learn something from each color. They can tell a star’s
temperature. They can find out how it moves. They can tell what it is made of and how old it is” (NASA – Hubble
Operations).
5
The Hubble Telescope has made leaps and bounds since it was launched in 1990. “From manufacturing to
medicine, the creative designs and innovative re-uses are some of the many Hubble improvements which translate
into benefits for us all” (The Hubble Project). The Hubble Telescope is constantly maintained and upgraded as
technology is improved. Easy maintenance allows for more data collection.
Since Hubble's modular design allows for these in-orbit instrument and equipment upgrades, the
astronauts are also able to bring back the equipment that is being replaced. The ability to refurbish
the returned science instruments has proven to be a cost-effective way to enhance the telescope
with the latest technology. By installing the new technology in recycled modules, NASA avoids
"reinventing the wheel" and reduces the overall cost of science data.”(The Hubble Project)
Activities
A course entitled “Emerging Technologies” would be of a nature that lends itself more naturally to research
and development activities and projects. Although the course would not be limited to this area, the focus of
potential activities that follow concentrate on improving knowledge and research skills. Such a course would be
more adequately taught within a communications laboratory with internet access, although a laboratory setting
would be equally appropriate.
activity #1
Computer Related Emerging Technologies
Research and develop a paper (with annotation and bibliography) that outlines one of the following topics as it
concerns the newest technologies that are in the field. Choose a topic from the following list:








Wireless capabilities (this is currently one of the greatest emerging technologies)
Database developments
Storage ability on computers (perhaps some type of external device that is under development)
New software (specific type of program, no gaming)
Processing chips
Operating systems
Altered hardware designs (how small computers are becoming)
Possible alternatives:
o Digital phones
o Nextel’s 2 way capabilities
o Fiber optic cable and wiring
activity #2
Innovation upon Existing Technologies
Take a traditional technology that is no older than four years. Determine how technologies from activity one are
altering the technology or how they could alter it. Sources may be no older than five years. Discuss positives and
6
negatives of the alteration along with design concepts. Choose an emerging technology that has to deal with an area
in the following list:








Food production
Food preservation
Sports safety
Architecture
Furniture
Textiles
Genome project
Cochlear implants
activity #3
Emerging Technology Development Presentation
Choose one of the four major content areas (nanotechnology, biotechnology, miniature electronics, NASA
developments) and research recent developments within the field. From your research select an emerging
technology and prepare a five to ten minute presentation that includes the following:




Why the emerging technology fits the chosen content area
What recent developments have been accomplished in regards to the emerging technology
Your views on what the next step of development will be
Presentation of model
o Description of parts
o Materials list
o Major working concepts
Students will have laboratory time to develop an adequate model for presentation.
Funding and Continued Education
A potential way to fund development of such a course would be through an Education Partnership. The
Information Directorate of the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) is a military division that offers local schools,
not-for-profit schools, and universities the opportunity to apply for funding. The school or university must apply for
the Education Partnership and meet the necessary criteria.
Under an EP arrangement, a government laboratory may loan equipment, transfer laboratory
equipment determined to be surplus, make laboratory personnel available to teach or assist in the
development of programs or courses, involve faculty and students in laboratory research projects,
help in developing a program under which students may be given academic credit for work on
laboratory research projects, and provide academic and career advice and assistance to students.
The goal of an EP is to encourage and enhance the study of the scientific disciplines at all levels of
education.” (AFRL/IF Educational Partnership (EP) Procedures)
7
Upon consideration from AFRL for the establishment of a partnership the school or university must
complete an Educational Partnership Preparation Template to outline responsibilities. Educational Partnerships
offer both faculty and students the opportunity to partake in research activities and project development.
NASA Opportunities for Visionary Academics (NOVA) is a program aimed at improving math, science,
and technological literacy for educators. The NOVA Vision is “To prepare highly literate preservice teachers in
science, mathematics, and technology by creating change in higher education” (NASA Opportunities for Visionary
Academics). NOVA conducts workshops, provides forums, has mentoring workshops, provides information, and
conducts research. A major objective for NOVA is to “Continue development of the NASA’s preservice education
model aligned with NASA’s strategic enterprises and the national standards and benchmarks for science,
mathematics, and technology” (NASA Opportunities for Visionary Academics). This will improve course content
to include recent developments in emerging technologies (i.e. Hubble Telescope) and offer insight into emerging
instructional technologies. The forums and workshops will allow for collaboration of educators about course
content and curricular ideas.
The National Workforce Center for Emerging Technologies (NWCET) is a division of Bellevue
Community College. It receives some funding through the National Science Foundation. “NWCET offers
implementation and design services for schools or districts wishing to adopt skill standards- based curriculum and
performance based assessment of students” (National Workforce for Emerging Technologies). NWCET assists
educators with the knowledge that is necessary for students to become successful workers in the future. The
program deals primarily with information technology.
Emerging Technologies for use Within the Classroom
Every educator is aware of instructional technologies. Most teachers have either an overhead projector or
an ELMO. Teachers that are within wealthier districts have the luxury of using projector systems and SMART
boards. Some technologies that are on the rise for use in the educational setting are: satellites, desktop
audio/graphics conferencing, and desktop videoconferencing. These three emerging technologies take the education
outside the classroom. They allow students and instructors to communicate from remote locations and also allow
the opportunity for students and educators to communicate more personally over long distances by exchanging
8
information, ideas, and experiences. Emerging technologies for instructional use will have a large impact on
education for both the students and educators. The important thing to remember is that
“The technology is really only serving as the intermediary between the learner and a human
instructor. Human beings are the ones who decide how to teach the material—what to present and
when, how to ask questions, what choices to give the learner, and so forth. The fact that these
choices are encapsulated in a computer program, for example, does not change the fact that
humans are real teachers.” (Ingram, 1996)
Conclusion
Without the emergence of technologies everything in our daily lives would take so much longer, for
example surgeries are much faster and recovery times are of remarkable speed. There are new drugs that are being
developed and produced all the time that may eventually lead to a cure for diseases that were once thought of as
incurable.
At the rate at which knowledge is growing, by the time the child born today graduates from
college, the amount of knowledge in the world will be four times as great. By the time that same
child is 50 years old, it will be 32 times as great, and 97 percent of everything known in the world
will have been learned since the time he was born. (Lauda, 1975)
A course entitled “Emerging Technologies” would be extremely beneficial to both students and educators.
It would help students to become better prepared for not only today’s society, but the rapidly approaching future.
Educators would gain the knowledge necessary to effectively pass on information to students and aid in helping
students become informed members of society.
Industrial arts teachers should realize that our society is a technological society. Technology is
future oriented which means we are in an opportune position to assist students in the challenges
they will have as adults. Our goal must be to provide the most realistic models of life that we can.
(Lauda, 1975)
Emerging technologies are the future. Ideologies that are being developed today will become the technologies used
daily in our future society. A course in emerging technologies would be beneficial in that the youth of today would
acquire the knowledge base that is necessary to live and understand the ever-changing highly technological society
in which we live.
9
Bibliography
AFRL/IF Education Partnership (EP) Procedures. Retrieved from internet using Internet Explorer October 8, 2003.
http://www.rl.af.mil/div/IFB/techtrans/TechTrans_EP_prep.html
Bergman, Christer. (2003, September). FDCH Congressional Testimony. Smart Card and Biometric Technology.
BioTech: Bioinformatics: Introduction. Retrieved from internet using Internet Explorer October 8, 2003.
http://biotech.icmb.utexas.edu/pages/bioinform/BIintro.html
Ingram, Albert L. (1996, June). Association Management. Teaching With Technology. pp 31-38.
Lauda, D., & Smalley, L. (1975). The Future: A Challenge to Industrial Arts. Monograph 5. American Council on
Industrial Arts Teacher Education.
Microcontrollers/Smart Cards. Retrieved from internet using Internet Explorer November 30, 2003.
http://www.technologystudent.com/pics/picdex1.htm
Nanotechnology. Retrieved from internet using Internet Explorer November 29, 2003.
http://www.zyvex.com/nano/
NASA - Hubble Operations. Retrieved from internet using Internet Explorer October 3, 2003.
http://www.nasa.gov/audience/forstudents/k-4/home/Hubble_feature_k4_58.html
NASA Opportunities for Visionary Academics. NASA Field Center Program. Retrieved from internet using
Internet Explorer October 15, 2003. http://nova.ed.uidaho.edu/strategic_plan_00-04.asp
NASA Opportunities for Visionary Academics. NOVA Vision and Objectives. Retrieved from internet using
Internet Explorer October 15, 2003. http://nova.ed.uidaho.edu/strategic_plan_00-04.asp
National Workforce for Emerging Technologies. Retrieved from internet using Internet Explorer November 30,
2003. http://www.nwcet.org/Educators/Default.aspx
PIC Microcontrollers. Retrieved from internet using Internet Explorer November 30, 2003.
http://www.technologystudent.com/pics/pic1.htm
RingCam. Retrieved from internet using Internet Explorer October 15, 2003.
http://research.microsoft.com/~rcutler/ringcam/ringcam.htm
The Hubble Project. Retrieved from internet using Internet Explorer November 30, 2003.
http://hubble.gsfc.nasa.gov/technology/