What does technical, practical and emancipatory wellbeing mean in the HSC option Social Impact of Technology?
The area “technology and wellbeing” examines the link between technology and quality of life in the technological era. The three dimensions attempt to show that individuals benefit in many different ways. The dimensions are artificial constructs and are not exclusive, e.g. the use of information technologies may assist one’s wellbeing on a practical basis but in the sense of time savings could be classified as emancipatory. Similarly the use of voice recognition software for an individual with poor keyboard skills or who has restricted use to a keyboard due to a disability would be emancipatory. To illustrate these concepts ask the students to investigate a couple of forms of technology and discuss the ways in, and degree to, which these could be viewed as contributing to the overall wellbeing of the individual. There are many forms of technology to choose from. Some suggestions in these broad categories follow: • Technical wellbeing, e.g. air conditioning, sustainable agriculture • Pr
