Technological artifacts are the physical outcomes we create when we apply our technical and scientific understanding to solve human needs or simplify tasks. Examples like the wheel, blender, and computer perfectly illustrate what technological artifacts are. They are tangible results of our efforts to improve life through technology and science.
The word “artifact” originates from Latin. Its roots are “ars,” meaning skill or technical/artistic ability, and “factus,” which implies the act of making something. Technological artifacts can be artisanal, industrial, artistic, practical, among others, and are usually of two types:
- Tangible technological artifacts are technological creations that have a physical form and can be perceived through touch. We define these artifacts by their characteristic of being able to be physically felt or touched. For example, cell phones, automobiles, and household appliances are tangible technological artifacts because we can touch and feel them.
- Intangible technological artifacts are technological creations that lack a physical form and cannot be perceived through touch. Their defining characteristic is that they cannot be physically felt or touched. Examples of intangible technological artifacts include software, web applications, and virtual assistants, because they are not physical objects that can be held or manipulated.
To create technological objects, we follow a process. First, we identify a problem. Then, we investigate the problem, plan a solution, and evaluate the constraints. Following that, we produce and deliver the object. Finally, users adopt the technological object. This complete process results in the creation of technological objects.
Characteristics of technological artifacts
The main characteristics of technological artifacts are:
Technological artifacts possess several key characteristics. First, they are intentionally created to fulfill a particular objective, making tasks more efficient or addressing a human requirement. Second, they incorporate novelty through new designs or operations, providing new solutions or enhancing existing approaches. Third, they are flexible and effectively applicable in diverse environments and circumstances. Fourth, they are robust, designed to endure use and deterioration over time using suitable materials and durable designs. Finally, they exert a substantial influence on culture and society, directly shaping how people live, work, and interact by changing essential elements of human existence.
Examples of technological artifacts
- Ceramic vessels: Containers made from shaped, fired, and hardened clay, used historically for storage, decoration, and rituals.
- The wheel: A circular object rotating on an axle, essential for transportation and early machines.
- Printed books: Mediums of textual information created using a printing press.
- Light bulbs: Devices producing light from electricity, often used for illumination.
- Refrigerators: Appliances keeping food cold to prevent spoilage.
- Blenders: Kitchen appliances for mixing or pureeing food.
- Televisions: Electronic devices displaying audio and visual signals, revolutionizing communication.
- Remote controls: Devices controlling other devices from a distance using infrared light or radio signals.
- Hair dryers: Electric devices applying heated air to dry and style hair.
- Heaters: Devices warming enclosed spaces by generating heat.
- Washing machines: Appliances cleaning clothes using water, detergent, and mechanical action.
- Microwave ovens: Appliances heating food quickly using electromagnetic waves.
- Cameras: Devices capturing and storing still or moving images.
- Camcorders: Portable devices recording and storing motion pictures as electronic signals.
- Electric guitars: Guitars using electronics to amplify sound from vibrating strings.
- Computers: Electronic devices processing data and producing results, essential for modern technology.
- Security cameras: Devices monitoring areas and recording events in real time.
- Cell phones: Portable wireless telephones connecting to a network for data transmission.
- Speakers: Devices playing audio files.
- Wireless headphones: Headphones transmitting audio wirelessly via Bluetooth.
- External memory disks: Devices physically transferring digital information.
- E-book readers: Devices displaying digital books, texts, and images.
- GPS: A satellite-based navigation system for positioning.
- Smart watches: Wrist watches with computer-like functions and extra features.
- Tablets: Portable touchscreen computers similar to laptops.
- VR headsets: Devices creating immersive virtual experiences.
- Video game consoles: Electronic systems for playing video games.
- Virtual assistants: Software executing tasks via text.
- Drones: Unmanned aerial vehicles performing tasks like photography.
- Home automation systems: Technologies automating home functions such as lighting.