Sunday, 4 September 2011

3rd Lesson

The two key topics covered in lesson were sustainability and innovation.

Sustainability of the environment has become increasingly important in today's world. Like the beginning of the video 'Story of Stuff" that Prof shared in class, it was mentioned that there are so many problems, like resources depleting at an alarmingly rate and pollution caused by toxic and waste. If we do not make any efforts to curb these issues, the dire consequences will be brought forward to the future generations of mankind. Hence, I am looking forward to see how the different governments will present their environmental goals during the Earth Summit, which will be held next year.

Similarly, innovation is also another important factor. Unless we strive on improvements, we will be left out of the race in no time. However, like what Prof said, it is only considered innovation until the succesful application of ideas, otherwise it is creativity. Relating to one of the articles in the required readings- “The Chaos of Innovation Management”, I thought what Prof said to be quite true. Although there are a lot of good ideas in the market, little has been done to carry them out in reality. Hence, likewise for students, having knowledge is not power, unless we apply what we have learnt and make a difference. 

Not only that, I feel that the Shahi Landscape Model for Technology Assessment is a good way to help business enterprises identify whether the industry is a sunrise or sunset one to venture into. I also agree with what Prof has mentioned that green technology will hold a lot of potential in future. In fact, I would classify green tech as a cloud opportunity!

On the other hand, I would also like to give another perspective on one of the presentations about Surrogoacy, which is how IVF (In Vitro Fertilisation) have made it possible for some couples to have children. Over the years, the use of IVF treatment has increased significantly, as more couples face difficulties in having kids, especially due to the reason of work-related stress. This is also a good example of how science has incorporated with technology.

Overall, I would rate the lesson 7.5/10 and so far, the TWC lessons have been quite enjoyable and informative!

P.S- On a note, I would really appreciate if we are able to end class on time in future, as some of us have another lesson to rush to after TWC. Thanks:)

1 comment:

  1. I would dearly love to have the class end on time too!

    I can only hope that you do realize and empathize with the fact that the reason why we have had no choice but to stretch things to the limit over the last couple of weeks has been because too many in the class signed on for presentation in Week 2 - having 6 guest presentations as we were forced to accommodate during class on Saturday is excessive under any circumstances. My preference, ideally, would be to have no more than 4 guest presenters for sessions organized in 2 parts, and up to 5 for full sessions...unfortunately, given the number enrolled in the class, we have had no choice but to accommodate a larger number per session.

    Anyway, as it turned out we managed to get thru a gruelling session with several minutes to spare before the next class...My goal is to try to ensure we finish each class on time - whether or not we succeed will depend entirely on you guys.

    Thanking you in advance for your cooperation and understanding in accommodating to the needs of others in the class!

    g

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