- #1
- 14,129
- 6,621
What is the difference between technology and engineering?
I don't get it. A builder is a person who performs the process of building. Engineering is not a person who performs the process of technology.anorlunda said:Engineering is to technology as builder is to building.
I think technology is a kind of materialized sum of all previous engineering. And while it is possible (?) to always start everything anew (re-engineer all) it is better to have a set of results to work with to spare on engineering. And to manage/refer those results we have 'technology'.Demystifier said:Why isn't it just SEM?
Because not everyone who works with technology is an engineer. Computer technicians, for example.Demystifier said:To put my question into a context, it arose from the STEM (Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics) acronym. Why isn't it just SEM?
Maybe. In my field a "designer" is not an engineer, but still works for an engineering company. So is that an E or a T job?anorlunda said:I think engineers dislike calling computer programming engineering. Including programming and software under the heading Technology gets around that.
I would summarize this by saying that technology is applied engineering, which is applied science, which is applied math. Would you agree?jack action said:Science: A science involved in studying phenomena or laws of the physical world; a general term of physics, chemistry, biology, astronomy, and so on.
Technology: The organization of knowledge for practical purposes.
Engineering: The application of mathematics and the physical sciences to the needs of humanity and the development of technology.
Mathematics: An abstract representational system used in the study of numbers, shapes, structure, change and the relationships between these concepts.
Based on these definitions, my take on this would be:
Math gives you an abstract representation to organize your thoughts (ex.: derivatives & integrals). Science uses math to explain the world limitations (ex.: Newton's law or Ohm's law). Engineering uses science to develop methods to work efficiently with our environment (ex.: how to create lift with aerodynamics or methods to build a computer). Technology finds solutions for particular problems (ex.: creating a lighter, stronger, better material for an airplane wing or creating the most efficient use of a computer for geopositioning).
No.Demystifier said:I would summarize this by saying that technology is applied engineering, which is applied science, which is applied math. Would you agree?
You can also say that everything is applied thinking, but that would make things rather difficult than clear.Demystifier said:I would summarize this by saying that technology is applied engineering, which is applied science, which is applied math.
I kind of agree more with @russ_watters and think it's an oversimplification, as the lines between each specialty can be blurry sometimes.Demystifier said:I would summarize this by saying that technology is applied engineering, which is applied science, which is applied math. Would you agree?
So you mean the use of any knowledge is therefore Engineering.Ranger Mike said:Science is the all encompassing study of all knowledge (as well as Theory) related to one subject.
Engineering is the practical application of this knowledge in a particular area. It defines the application, usually with measurements and mathematics.
The same as any other discussion: Passing the time by playing with abstract ideas - just for the fun of it - while patiently waiting for death.Tosh5457 said:What's the point of this discussion?
The main difference between technology and engineering is that technology is the practical application of scientific knowledge to create tools and machines, while engineering is the application of scientific, mathematical, and practical principles to design and build structures, machines, and systems.
Technology and engineering are closely related as both involve the use of scientific principles to create practical solutions. Technology often relies on engineering principles for its development, while engineering utilizes technology to design and build innovative solutions.
Examples of technology include smartphones, computers, and medical equipment, while examples of engineering include bridges, buildings, and airplanes. Both technology and engineering have a wide range of applications and can be found in almost every aspect of our daily lives.
No, technology cannot exist without engineering. Technology is the practical application of scientific knowledge, and engineering is crucial in turning that knowledge into tangible products and solutions. Without engineering, technology would not be able to progress and evolve.
Both technology and engineering have ethical considerations, as they can have a significant impact on society and the environment. It is essential for scientists, engineers, and developers to consider the potential consequences of their creations and ensure that they are used responsibly for the betterment of society.