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Appropriate
technology is
technology
which, in its creation and use, meets human needs while
considering the short- and long-term consequences for
the society and the environment. (NSW Board of Studies,
1997: 9)
Appropriate
technology recognises that a technological problem is
not simply a problem for engineers and other technologists.
The solution to the problem needs the participation
of the people who will use the technology and the people
who will be affected by it.
Appropriate
technology values independence and empowerment of the
user, because controlling the technology can help to
increase skills and build a sense of community. (Community
Aid Abroad, 1996: 1)
Activity
Consider the mind map below. Explain why BRACS could
be described as an appropriate technology.
(Community
Aid Abroad, 1996: 1) |
The
Centre for Appropriate technology:
- assists
in solving problems with housing, infrastructure or
technologies
- designs
new houses and buildings or upgrades to existing ones
- helps
you to choose infrastructure and technologies that
suit your community's needs, including power systems,
water supply, waste water disposal and others
- organises
appropriate training programs, especially for technical
and building projects
- develops
management systems to keep your technologies working
well
- provides
information and advice on a range of issues
- organises
conferences and workshops as needed
- helps
communities to plan for technical change, where they
live particularly outstations and living areas.
http://www.icat.org.au/
Other
useful sites for appropriate technology:
Ecodesign
http://www.cfd.rmit.edu.au/outcomes/erdnews/erd6/Dishwasher.html
Sustainable design, Centre for Design RMIT
http://www.cfd.rmit.edu.au/
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