Navigating the Dangers of Nanotechnology

While the world of IT may be easier to grasp (at least you can see it!), nanotechnology can seem baffling. Nanotechnology involves the study and science of matter too tiny to be seen with the eye, even using a light microscope. The nanoscale is tiny; to give an idea, an atom’s size is just around 0.1 nm (nanometer).

A World of Change

Nanotechnology could potentially change the world in many ways. Although it is still a very new science, the implications could be massive. By altering things at a very small scale, scientists could essentially change the entire structure of an object. Nanotechnology can change the way atoms combine, completely altering substance. One practical application of this technology could be utilised with batteries. If taken at the nanometric scale, battery granules could improve the way the battery functions. Nanoparticles offer a greater surface area which allow the battery to recharge faster and maintain it’s energy and charge for much longer. Nanotechnology, once harnessed, could change products and everyday things in dramatic ways.

Scientists have recently researched nanomaterials which start small, but could potentially grow or assemble themselves into larger objects. This behaviour is much like that of cells, which automatically repair and replicate to create something larger, like tissue or an organ. Developing self-propagating nanomaterials could affect the world of assembly, drastically changing manufacturing of a huge number of products and items. Nanotechnology could affect medicine, computers, and other machine industries to name just a few.

Tread Lightly

As it is still a young area of research, the outcome of nanotechnology developments is difficult to measure. There is some danger, however, when playing with structures on such a tiny, atomic level. At that scale, changes in structure or design have a much larger impact, altering the entire object or particle. The behaviour of this item is then changed, and its interaction with the environment or even the human body, for example, is hard to predict. Scientists may need to proceed with caution to protect the living world from any potential negative results; from restructured objects or forms that may not react well. The behaviour of chemicals such as asbestos, for example, give us insight into the way particles alter when interacting with the human body. Chemically, it was thought to be harmless, and later was found that when inhaled the structures change and become cancerous within the human body. Developments in nanotechnology, causing changes on the tiniest scale, could still turn objects into potentially dangerous substances. So while this technology is highly worthwhile, and may have wonderful advantages to society, it’s potential problems are as yet very unknown, so scientists must proceed with caution.

Teaching Technology To the Technology-Resistant

At some point in time, you may encounter those who are highly resistant to technological advancements. Perhaps it is your grandmother, who finds the new technology baffling and overwhelming, and who has no desire to adapt. Perhaps it is a friend or colleague who feels uncomfortable with their own abilities with computers or other systems. While multitudes adopt new advancements and trends with no problem, for others, technology can be a bit frightening or seem too difficult to grasp. They may doubt their own skills when it comes to trying out new technology, or maybe they don’t see the benefits of the new advancements. Can You Convert the Technology-Resistant?

In most cases, those who are initially reticent about new technology may be won over as they observe the benefits and advantages this technology will provide for them. Often, when technology is necessary, these individuals will accept it grudgingly as they know they truly need it. For those in the current job market, an understanding of at least the most basic computer skills is generally required. When it comes to succeeding professionally, most have followed the crowd and learned to grasp and appreciate technological prowess.

For others, like your old-fashioned grandmother, an acceptance of technology may happen when they realise how helpful it can be for them individually. When technology can provide someone a unique service, perhaps streamlining an otherwise painstaking process, then technology suddenly seems like a godsend. Your grandmother might appreciate how using a smartphone can provide her with apps to make grocery lists, track spending, and keep a handy calendar in her pocket. When dealing with the technology resistant, a personalised approach is best. Show them how advancements can benefit them.

Slow and Steady Wins the Race

While some soak up new skills like sponges, others may not be so quick on the uptake. This is especially true of those to whom technology seems more foreign. In a workplace environment, if you’re training individuals who seem to have difficulties grasping technological concepts, the key is to go slowly. Take your time explaining each step of a process, and let the trainee repeat the step until they’ve got it down. Often, a printed manual of steps for a technological process can be extremely helpful. Training in a group environment can also be useful, as those who catch on quickly can assist the others with acquiring the new skills.

It’s always important to remember that every individual has a unique way of learning and absorbing new material. It’s useful to try various approaches when training, especially if you are working with a variety of age groups, backgrounds, and skill sets.

Patience for All

Technology, while it seems second nature to some, can be an exceedingly trying concept for others. It’s vital to remain patient with different types of learners, and to respect the opinions of the technology resistant. A gentle nudge, and a demonstration of the beauty and efficacy of technology may be the best way to go.

The Internet of Things

At the Build 2014 conference held this past April, Microsoft held a session on “Windows on the Internet of Things.” Microsoft, as well as other companies, is heralding new technology that will allow computer-chips to function effectively within commonplace “things” such as a watch, coffee mug, or even a pencil eraser. Essentially, Microsoft wants to input its operating system into these much smaller objects-- creating smart mug, smart watch, smart everything. This is the beginning of the Internet of things. Even in recent days, other companies have released statements which may highlight their intention to make headway into this Internet of things. The possibilities involve endless objects that could be plastered with connectable devices, so the race is on.

According to Techopedia, “the Internet of Things (IoT) is a computing concept that describes a future where everyday physical objects will be connected to the Internet and be able to identify themselves to other devices.” With the growth of this kind of interconnectedness, we’d be approaching a wholly connected world, where every item in front of you has an incredible capacity. This type of technology would have an enormous impact on our world and society, as everyday objects would become globally connected: capable of transmitting and receiving objects. The objects themselves would be inherently changed, giving rise to the term “ambient intelligence” where even common objects can contain knowledge and information.

What are Some Objects in Development?

Nest, in collaboration with Google, has developed a “learning thermostat,” a device which presumably would adapt to the surrounding areas, and alter its functioning to suit the environment. They’ve also focused on smoke detectors which respond to voice commands and have connections to a smartphone app.

Jawbone’s UP24 wristband monitors all kinds of things about the wearer, such as physical activity, and sends data to the appropriate computer. This wristband also can connect with other smartphone apps to perform such amazing tasks as starting your coffee brewing in the morning.

Intel has focused on developing a new chip, their tiniest yet, known as the Quark. Intel claims that this chip will be able to be used in computers, smartphones, or wearable items, and will connect these devices using a fraction of the power of other chips.

We’ll See

The Internet of Things presents both wonderful opportunities to have a fully connected world, but similarly may produce some questions and concerns regarding privacy, limitation, and control of these newly connected objects. As this technology is still under development, there are many avenues it could potentially follow, and these concerns may not need addressing until the Internet of Things is in full blown effect. Until then, we anxiously await the arrival of this new way of life.