Devices Help Students Demonstrate Historic Advances in Technology
A medieval-style catapult was one of the final projects presented in the Philosophy and History of Science and Technology class Wednesday, Dec. 12.
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The launch of a medieval-style catapult was one of several final projects presented in the Philosophy and History of Science and Technology class Wednesday, Dec. 12, on the playing fields next to Moody Sustainers Field House.
In the class, taught by Don Berkich, assistant professor of philosophy, students were challenged to recreate a historic advance in technology using only the tools, materials, and techniques available at that time. The goal was to help students understand why technological advancement, in stark contrast to the modern era, has often been halting and slow.
Demonstrations included the trebuchet, a medieval-style catapult used in siege warfare; the atlatl, a Stone Age tool for hurling javelins with greater accuracy; a seventh century Chinese design hot air balloon used in warfare; and a Baghdad battery circa 300 B.C., a primitive device constructed from clay jars, copper and iron rods. |
