Technology Definition:
Technology is the practical application of scientific knowledge, digital systems and technical
tools to improve communication, productivity, research and problem-solving. It enables
people to collect and process information, complete complex tasks efficiently and develop
solutions that may not be possible through traditional methods. Technology includes both
everyday tools, such as computers and QR codes and advanced innovations, such as quantum
computing. Using technology effectively also requires understanding its limitations and
considering issues such as accuracy, security, privacy and ethical responsibility. Therefore,
technological competency involves using tools purposefully while recognizing their effects
on individuals and society.
REFLECTION PARAGRAPH ON 1st ASSIGNMENT:
Assignment Name: “Quantum Computers Project Report” Competency: Technology
Course: GEIT 3331: Computer Organization, Indicator 1: Uses IT Tools for
Productivity, Communication, Research, Problem-Solving and Decision-Making,
Performance Level: Advanced. This assignment is an ongoing group report about quantum
computers. My personal contribution consisted of approximately three to four pages
explaining the historical development that led to quantum technology. I discussed the
creation of early computers during World War II, the development of classical computers and
the discovery of quantum mechanics. I then explained the origin of quantum computing and
introduced major concepts such as superposition, entanglement, interference, qubits,
quantum gates and quantum circuits. I also compared classical and quantum computers by
explaining that classical computers use bits represented as zero or one, while quantum
computers use qubits that can be prepared in more complex states before measurement.
This project developed my ability to use technology for academic research, information
processing and the communication of difficult technical ideas. Because quantum computing
is outside the regular course syllabus, I had to study unfamiliar concepts independently rather
than depend entirely on classroom material. I used credible academic sources found
through Google Scholar to understand the subject, summarize the information in my own
words and reference the ideas appropriately. The greatest obstacle was simplifying
complicated concepts without making the explanation inaccurate. Terms such as decoherence
and quantum measurement were difficult to explain clearly because they behave differently
from familiar computer systems. I overcame this obstacle by comparing several scholarly
explanations, identifying their common ideas and connecting each concept to material from
Computer Organization.
I evaluate my contribution as advanced because I selected a challenging topic beyond the
syllabus, completed my assigned section and supported it with credible sources. The
possibility of receiving bonus marks also indicates that the project demonstrates initiative
and additional learning. However, the complete group report is still unfinished and will be
continued by my teammates before submission later in the summer semester. My advice is to
begin advanced research early, use scholarly sources and verify that simplified explanations
remain technically accurate.
REFLECTION PARAGRAPH ON 2nd ASSIGNMENT:
Assignment Name: “Simple Math of QR Codes”, Competency: Technology
Course/Activity: PMU Math Day 2025 Extracurricular Project, Indicator 1: Uses IT
Tools for Productivity, Communication, Research, Problem-Solving and Decision-
Making, Performance Level: Advanced. This assignment was an extracurricular university
project completed with Badr Alhodathi for PMU Math Day 2025. Our central idea was to
investigate QR codes as both a practical technology and a mathematical structure. We
explained that QR codes were invented in 1994 by Masahiro Hara at DENSO WAVE in
Japan to overcome the limited capacity and one-directional scanning of traditional barcodes.
We then described how information, such as text or a website link, is converted into binary
numbers and arranged inside a two-dimensional matrix, where zero represents a white
square and one represents a black square.
The assignment strengthened my understanding of how mathematical concepts support a
familiar digital technology. We examined how error correction adds backup information so
that a QR code can still be read when part of it is damaged. We also introduced a polynomial
representation to demonstrate the mathematical reasoning behind this process. In addition, we
explained that the three large corner squares act as finder patterns, helping a camera identify
the code’s position and orientation. This showed me that a technology that appears simple to
users depends on organized data, mathematical rules and accurate image recognition.
The main difficulty was presenting the mathematics in a form that Math Day visitors could
understand without requiring advanced technical knowledge. Concepts such as matrices,
binary encoding and error-correction polynomials could easily become confusing. We
overcame this obstacle by dividing the process into clear steps and supporting the explanation
with diagrams, examples and an interactive element. I assess my performance
as advanced because I participated in an activity beyond my required coursework and helped
connect theoretical mathematics with real applications such as restaurant menus, flight tickets
and product tracking. My advice to future students is to choose a familiar technology,
investigate the hidden principles behind it and use visual examples to make complex
information understandable.
