Mr. Sanders: Core: Technology in the Workplace

Technology in the Workplace

Generally computing is used everywhere, in almost every workplace. Excursions can be a useful experience for students to go on to see how technology is used in the workplace. Leanne mentioned in the lecture that IKEA have such an experience, where students can see how technology is used behind the scenes. Flatpack furniture is the basis of the operation, and the process can be tracked, an interesting process that can be educational.

The Powerhouse Museum is another useful and engaging place to go on an excursion that documents Technology in the Workplace. Leanne mentioned that the Powerhouse has documented all the safety aspects for all visitors. Support documentation and information is available online for the HSC Technology Syllabus.
Seminars and workshops are also a feature of the Powerhouse Museum.

The University of Chicago has pioneered a physical type of database retrieval system for books, which has been adopted locally at Macquarie University, this can be an interesting place for students to visit, to look at how technology is used in the workplace. The above mentioned experiences form diverse ways that students can learn about technology in particular workplaces which are more unique compared with the computer dense working environments that exist within our society.

Virtual Worlds

Virtual Worlds involve the construction of computerised interactive representations of real world circumstances.

Virtual Worlds has been and can be used for Practice Teaching Experiences

3D Printing

Another example of an innovative side of computing that has transformed the workplace for designers is 3D printing. This short video illustrates the process from designing to "building" an object using this technology. An excursion to a manufacturing firm that uses this could provide rich learning opportunities for students in conjunction with meeting the outcomes:

5.2.1 describes and applies problem-solving processes when creating solutions

5.4.1 analyses the effects of past, current and emerging, information and software technologies on the individual and society

As well as potentially extending student's knowledge and awareness of how companies and businesses:
5.1.1 selects and justifies the application of appropriate software programs to a range of tasks