The text teaches students about the nature of technology and its role in our lives. It provides information about the history and evolution of technology; the characteristics of technology; and its impact on our society, culture, economy, politics and environment.

Hands-on activities give students experience in designing and using technology. "Directed" activities provide step-by-step procedures. "Design and problem solving" activities guide students to use the problem-solving process to develop their own solutions.

Cross-curricular activities in the Chapter Review pages relate technology to other subjects, such as science, mathematics, language arts and social studies.