This technological literacy will better prepare students for a future of fantastic technological change. Critical thinking about something that affects all of us, like technology, requires understanding why we use it, how it works, where it comes from, and how to apply it. Knowing how to use a web browser or word processor, while important, is tied to specific technology. The pace of technological advancements, however, makes learning how to operate specific technologies a secondary focus. Understanding context should be the primary focus because such an understanding spans specific technologies, the concepts are of enduring value.
Technology is cross-disciplinary.
Its invention and application are driven by history, science, math, communication, and many other fields. Therefore, technology provides a uniting theme for study in these fields, as well as a tangible, familiar application. Technology does not care about the student's skin color, gender, ethnicity, popularity, looks, or background. Technology can be invented, developed, and applied by anyone. Underprivileged students may assume that they have no role to play in the development of technology, but context shows the variety of ways that people invent, develop, apply, and influence technology.