Earth Science: Geology, the Environment, and the UniverseChapter 1:
The Nature of ScienceProblem of the WeekThat was then. This is now. Most students today, and many adults, take for
granted the devices, tools, and modern conveniences that are available
to us today that weren't available in the 1950's. Students should brainstorm
and discuss ideas about technologies that were available then, and what
they would have to do to make this meeting happen in the 1950's versus
making it happen now. The students can set up the meeting in one of two
ways, either as a face to face meeting or as a "remote" meeting, such
as a phone conference. Doing this activity should give them a good idea
of how rapidly things have changed. You might even extend this to comparing
technologies only 10 - 15 years ago. The changes, especially in communication
technology would still be great! Finally, another fun spinoff from this would
be to investigate modern conveniences that are spinoffs from other technologies,
such as NASA technology spinoffs. Students might use a work sheet like the following
to organize ideas before coming up with a plan. 1950 | Ideas For Planning Meeting | Now | | Would you have to travel? | | | If so, How would you travel? | | | How would you communicate? | | | Are computers involved? | | | Are satellites involved? | | | Other things to consider: | |
Resource Web Sites: NASA Spinoff Technology:
Apollo Missions
Space Shuttle Missions
Communication and home electrical technologies
History of Transportation |