Preparing for the Systems of Knowledge Technology project.

       The project involves practical work in a field of study chosen by the student to show how technology affects the quality of life.

       Technology is a study of the mechanical arts and the applied sciences.   Thus, it has a great relevance to the quality of life.   Scientific principles can form a good basis for technological work, but empirical (experimental) results are essential.   Therefore, technology must solve problems to make human existence better.

       The textbook relevant to this project is ‘Zen and the Art of Motorcycle maintenance’ by Robert M. Pirsig.   The chapters relating most to the project are numbers 24,25 and 26.

       Chapter 24 :   Here Care and Quality are discussed in relation to technology.   A person who sees Quality and feels it as he works is a person who cares.   The traditional scientific way of looking at a problem by analysis from an objective point of view will sometimes cause one to become ‘stuck’, that is unsure of what step follows logically.   The required hypothesis explaining the problem is sometimes hard to come by.   But, if there is care in getting the required result, the problem will most certainly cease to exist as one sees a new meaning in the problem and how to achieve the result by an alternative way.

       Chapter 25:  The existence of ugliness in technology does not mean that this ugliness is inherent.   Technology deals with the making of things, so it is in itself an art (techne means art).   Neither is the ugliness inherent in the materials.   Ugliness comes from our habit of associating Quality to subjects or objects of technology.   Ugliness, or lack of Quality, comes from a lack of identity that the creator and the user of technology feels with it.   To overcome this we must cultivate a peace of mind when creating.   From this follows right values, and subsequently right thoughts.   Right thoughts produce right actions and resulting in work which is a reflection of serenity in the centre of it.   Technology should be a material reflection of a spiritual reality.

      Chapter 26:  Here the term ‘Gumption’ is defined.   A word with a similar meaning is enthusiasm.   A person who seeks quality will be filled with enthusiasm for his work.   A person can act in ways that fill him with gumption while some actions tend to dissipate it.   A quality relationship between subject and object is what the aim should be.   Things that reduce this (gumption traps) should be avoided.   The two types of gumption traps are those arising from external sources (setbacks) and those coming from within.   An orderly way of working and the cultivation of inner peace together with appropriate rest periods will help to keep the supply of gumption high.    The internal gumption traps are divided into value traps, truth traps and muscle traps.   The most important are the value traps where the right value is not ascribed to an action.   This occurs because of value rigidity where there is a strong commitment to previously held values.   Overcoming this, one experiences a sense of discovery when a new fact is revalued.   Another gumption trap is ego where one has too high self-esteem.   Anxiety is another gumption trap and the way out is to get the right information.   The next trap is boredom, when bored one should stop!   Impatience is similar and here one can allow more time for working.

       Truth traps are about understanding truth.   Sometimes the truth does not follow from a yes/no statement but can lie in a third logical dimension.   In this case, the question must be rephrased.   Finally, the muscle trap comes from working in uncomfortable surroundings and with unsuitable tools.

       After studying the relevant chapters in the book, the first step in the technology project is for the student to identify a field that affords a good study of technology.   The range is vast but it follows from the book that the choice must be a personal one.   It might be useful, however, to consult reference books such as The Oxford Illustrated Encyclopaedia of Invention and Technology ( R.608.7) ISBN 0-19-869138-6 at the reference library, Beltissebħ.   This will provide some preliminary information in a chosen field, since the decision is binding once the application is filed.

       Once the application is approved, research can be started in the particular field.   A portfolio will be created with the results of the research work.   At this stage one can decide on a model that can be built to show that a technological solution must have inbuilt care and quality in order to be a good solution.

       The data obtained from the research will help at the model design stage and can take the form of diagrams and logical thought on paper before construction work starts on the model.  The student will meet problems during the course of model building and these should be overcome if the gumption supply is kept high.   Following the practical suggestions offered by Pirzig will produce a model that on testing and improvement will have the required inbuilt Quality.

       A report on the model building as an exercise in problem solving will have to be presented at the time of the interview, when the decisions regarding the model will be defended if necessary, to show that the whole process is a good practical study into the quality of a technological product.   The write up can be divided into three chapters as follows:

       I:     Page of Historical information

      II:     Discussion of research on field of study

     III:     How the model was made

       Diagrams, calculations, sketches and photographs are to be included in the writeup where they are relevant.   A list of contents and numbered pages would enhance the presentation.   A bibliography, showing the sources consulted for information would be proof that the research was conducted in a serious manner.

       The name of the project, name and surname of candidate, group and I.D. number should appear on the front cover and the same information is also to be affixed to the model.   The application form is pasted on the inside of the cover.   Check if there is a requirement for a handwritten page to be included in the writeup.   Also, check on the size restrictions on the model.

I will discuss willingly the role of science in technological applications with any student preparing for the project.   Just call at the science museum in room 452 at the Junior College.

A petition presented by students proposes the following changes to the rules governing the Systems of Knowledge project:

(1)     That the subject of Systems of Knowledge ceases to be mandatory for university entry qualifications.

(2)     That Students choose only one project that is Aesthetic or Technological.

(3)      Students wish that the syllabus should reflect better Culture and Science in Malta.

RL 4/6/01