Course outline for ITDPT 100 / Fall Semester 2009


Dr. Richard D. Seymour
Associate Professor

Dept. of Technology
Applied Technology Bldg.  Room 217
Ball State University
Muncie, IN 47306-0255   U.S.A.
Phone 765-285-5652
FAX 765-285-2162
E-mail: rseymour@bsu.edu
 
Course Title: ITDPT 100 - Technology & Society  (3 semester hours)
Prerequisite:  None
Description:  ITDPT 100 - The history, development, production, use, and assessment of technology and an examination of its effects upon resources, individuals, society, and the environment.
Introduction: Throughout all recorded history, technology has impacted the quality of life, nature of work and leisure, means of transport, and human life expectancy.  Historically, a person who was not knowledgeable about technology could not take advantage of the benefits of that society.  It is clear that to function successfully in any society, one must understand the devices, products, and systems which shape the culture.
Further, the interdependence among humanity, science, and technology must be studied to fully appreciate human evolution.  This includes the means by which we rely on scientific and mathematical principles, plus human innovation, to fulfill basic wants and needs.  This course helps explore our modern world, one driven by marvelous devices and emerging technologies.  Technological progress and their impacts will be covered in great detail.  Specialized learning experiences have been scheduled to support this review of global technologies.
Resources:  Technology (R. Thomas Wright).  Tinley Park, IL: Goodheart-Willcox, Inc.
Special Note: Access to the Internet is critical for activities / assignments related to this course
Key Topics:  Weeks 1-2: Evolution of technology  (Objective A, B, E, F, G)
Weeks 3-4: Technological systems (Objective A-I)
Week 5:  Technology & a global perspective  (Objective B, C, D, E, F, G)
Week 6:  Resources (Objective C, D, E, G)
Weeks 7-8:  Design and problem solving (Objective C, D, F)
Weeks 9-13:  Basic technological systems (Objective A, C-F, H, I)
Weeks 14-15:  Impacts / consequences (Objective B, C, G-I)
Minimum Reqmts:  To successfully complete the course, each student should:
1) Participate in class and laboratory activities
2) Read and react to a variety of topics as found in the textbook, on the Internet, etc.
3) Complete research assignments, homework, and reports by the announced deadlines.
4) Share ideas and observations with others in the course
5) Complete the quizzes and final examination
Objectives:  Upon completion of this course, each student should be able to:
A. Define, describe, and use technology.
B. Recognize the historical and modern interdependence of technology on individuals, society, and the environment.
C. Identify the resources, applications, and outputs critical to the design and operation of technological systems.
D. Use problem solving abilities to develop creative solutions to present and emerging technological problems and opportunities.
E. Compare, contrast, and communicate the benefits and limitations of a variety of technological systems using structured evaluation techniques.
F. Create and operate a variety of modern devices and systems. 
G. Describe the impacts of technological innovations upon the individual, society, and the environment.
H. Explain the responsibilities of the user of technological systems.
I. Develop life-long learning skills that will help in making appropriate technological decisions in the future.
Evaluation:  Final scores will reflect efforts on various assignments following these percentages:
Laboratory & Classroom Activities 40%
Papers / Homework Assignments 25%
Quizzes (3) 15%
Professionalism (Attendance, participation, etc.) 5%
Final Examination 15%
The semester grade will be determined by dividing the total points earned by the total points possible.  A letter grade will be assigned for the following:
92.5 - 100% A
90 - 92.4% A-
87.5 - 89.9% B+
82.5 - 87.4% B
80 - 82.4% B-
77.5 - 79.9% C+
72.5 - 77.4% C
70 - 72.4% C-
67.5 - 69.9% D+
62.5 - 67.4% D
60 - 62.4% D-
0 - 59.9% F
Course Evaluation:  Students are encouraged to evaluate this course at the end of the term by completing an standardized evaluation.  Feedback from the evaluation forms will be used to enhance the effectiveness of the instructor, content, and activities.
Student Needs:  If you need course adaptations or accommodations because of a disability, if you have emergency medical information to share with me, or if you need special arrangements, please inform me as soon as possible (via e-mail or phone as necessary).
Schedule:  Schedule for ITDPT 100 - Fall Semester 2009
August 26, 2009
Orientation to the course
Evolution to technology
September 2, 2009
Evolution to technology
September 9, 2009
Technological systems
September 16, 2009
Technological systems
Using / operating technology
September 23, 2009
Technology / global perspective QUIZ #1
September 30, 2009
Resources
October 7, 2009
Design / problem solving
October 14, 2009
Design / engineering / etc.
October 21, 2009
Ag / Bio-related technologies QUIZ #2
October 28, 2009
Communication & information technology
November 4, 2009
Construction technology
November 11, 2009
Manufacturing / mass production technology
November 18, 2009
Transportation technology QUIZ #3
November 25, 2009
Thanksgiving Break
December 2, 2009
Impacts / consequences
December 9, 2009
Emerging technologies
December 16, 2009
FINAL EXAMINATION (7:00 PM)