Element 1: Philosophy of Technology
This element establishes a philosophical foundation for technology as a field of human endeavour. Element 1 has three aspects:
Aspect 1: Understanding Technology
Describes why technology is a fundamental part of "what it is to be human". It allows humans to address issues of survival, well being and improve their quality of life through the use of intellectual and practical resources (Homo faber – humans who make things). This aspect supports student teachers to develop a broad view of technology as socially embedded, recognising that it is neither new nor exclusively "high tech".
Aspect 2: Views of Technology
Describes how and why people's views of technology are influenced by their values, experiences and understandings of different theoretical perspectives. This aspect supports student teachers to develop a view of technology through exploring different people's views.
Aspect 3: Manifestation of Technology
Describes how and why people's values and experiences influence how they interact with and develop technology. This aspect supports student teachers to recognise that people interact with and develop technologies in response to their values and experiences.