Technological Products Explanatory Paper
Introduction
The purpose of this explanatory paper is to define a technological product and clarify why and how technological products work the way they do. It presents the component descriptor, the key ideas underpinning it, and illustrative examples of these from technology. This paper also discusses some intuitive ideas students have about this component and suggests possible learning experiences.
Component descriptor
Technological products are material in nature and exist in the world as a result of human design. Understanding the relationship between the properties of materials and their performance capability is essential for understanding and developing technological products. Technological knowledge within this component includes the means of evaluating materials to determine appropriate use to enhance the fitness for purpose of technological products. It includes understandings of new materials formulation and their potential impacts on future product function. The impact of material use and development on product life cycles/expectancy is also included with regards to understanding material sustainability in its broadest sense.
