1. What do the words “text” and “technology” mean to you?
Text: words used to aid in communicating ideas, knowledge and messages through a written language
Technology: Devices that aid in tasks, such as learning and teaching,
2. Search the OED for formal definitions and etymology.
Text: “The wording of anything written or printed; the structure formed by the words in their order; the very words, phrases, and sentences as written.”
Technology: “The product of such application; technological knowledge or know-how; a technological process, method, or technique. Also: machinery, equipment etc., developed from the practical application of scientific and technical knowledge.”
Textbook: “A book used as a standard work for the study of a particular subject” or “a book containing a selection of Scripture texts, arranged for daily use or easy reference.”
Texting: “The action of practice of sending text messages from one mobile phone to another.”
Technician: “A person knowledgeable or skilled in the technicalities of a particular field; esp. an expert in the formal or practical aspect of an art, sometimes with implications of a corresponding lack of creativity.”
3. Graph the Usage of the terms over time with Google Ngram Viewer.
From 1500 to 1700, the occurrence of “text” and “technology” fluctuate greatly. At times, the word technology is not even seen for decades at a time. The occurrence of text increases gradually from 1700 to 1900, while “technology” is never seen. In 1925, the occurrence of both words spike until 2000, when there is a drop for both words.
4. Consider the following questions or come up with questions of your own.
The main takeaway for me is that technology is related to text. Text is the actual wording or language used for various communication purposes, while technology can be considered the application of using text. Technology allows text to be applied and used through machines, equipment, etc.
Some questions that emerged from this activity for me:
- What happened in 2000 and onward that caused the drop in the occurrence of the words “text” and “technology”?
- Why was the word technology seen for periods in the 1500s, but never again until the 1900s?