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Design values

This component demands that students explore a range of different types of values. Analysing the history of technological development provides insight into the way that different values, as held by individuals as well as those that have been institutionalised, have influenced past technological decision making, and how these in turn impact on the values of others. The growth of Living Nature, as a commercial entity in New Zealand, and the influences on the specific products developed by this company, can be analysed in this way. It provides clear examples of how technological decision making brings together personal values and serves to reflect, and possibly change, the values held by others with respect to personal care and care for the environment. This component also provides opportunities for informed debate of contentious issues concerned with technology, and the complex moral and ethical aspects involved in taking a particular position. The influences behind past technological developments can be explored and analysed to develop understandings of issues of diversity, equity, and respect for others. Looking at examples from the past, where such issues have been ignored as well as when they have been addressed, allows students to more clearly identify the importance of these issues in contemporary society. Clashes between indigenous people and colonising forces provide a number of examples of past and contemporary contentious issues. One of these is the devaluing of indigenous knowledge and customs, particularly in regards to imposed technologies. Exploring technological developments in the area of medicine allows students to explore how people’s different religious, cultural and environmental values interact in complex ways, resulting in negative outcomes for some groups. It also allows for an exploration of how benefits can be derived for all if a more consultative and informed approach is taken, whereby alternative views and values are afforded respect. The Gift of Rongoa (Learning Media Applications edition published in 2005) provides a good starting point for such discussions.
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