Hello again! In this video lesson we’ll introduce another vocabulary topic that is always relevant.
It’s likely that during an exam you have a task related to technology – be it listening, reading, speaking or writing. You might be asked your opinions on different inventions, on the benefits and drawbacks that come with technological advancement, as well as what the future holds in our pursuit of constant development.
That’s why it’s a good idea to learn words and phrases connected to technology. It will be a good boost to your vocabulary and ability to express your opinion regarding this matter.
We’re going to introduce some key terms and expressions, explain them, and see some examples towards the end of the video.
We’ll begin with
technological advances which is another way to say improvements in technology. We’ve had a lot of advances when it comes to
artificial intelligence (AI) - technology that allows machines to perform intelligent tasks. It is connected to
digital technology – which is technology involving computers and electronic systems. We use this technology on various
devices - electronic equipment such as a phones or tablets. With everything becoming digital, concerns have been raised when it comes to
personal data – this is information about an individual. Potential threats could expose such sensitive information. That’s why it’s important where and how we
store data – or keep this digital information secure. Constant technological advances require that we
keep up with technology – meaning, to stay informed about new technology.
Keeping up with new discoveries is possible easily nowadays, because we can use the internet to
access information – meaning to find or obtain information. We
have access to a lot of sources of information, meaning that we’re able to use or obtain it. However, with the constant drip feed of information, one has to consider their
screen time – or the time spent looking at digital screens. Prolonged screen time can be harmful to our health. Another factor of spending too much time in front of the screen is
becoming addicted to it - being unable to stop using it. There are many people at different ages nowadays who are addicted to social media, or doom scrolling for example. We can
rely on technology, or depend on technology, but not all the time and not for everything. We need to make sure we
keep in touch, or maintain communication with people in real life and not replace it with online chatting and AI bots. We should also take measures that we don’t allow AI technology to
replace human workers, and do all jobs previously done by people.
Of course, technology has the ability to
enhance our lives, or make them better. Devices save us a lot of time and effort. Historically speaking, washing machines, cars, and telephones have
revolutionised, or caused a big change in society. There have been many
breakthroughs, or new discoveries and developments in many areas – medicine, space travel, transport, etc. Many people’s jobs these days allow them to
work remotely, or work away from an office, using technology. Of course, communicating with friends, family and colleagues mostly online can be a threat to
face-to-face communication, meaning communication in person. This is a big
drawback, downside, or disadvantage of our digital world nowadays. We have
gadgets - small useful electronic devices, for many things. We also have big machines for even more things. However, we should not let technology take over our whole existence.
Now, here are some useful B2 expressions for discussing this topic and examples with them.
beneficial/detrimental Too much screen time can be detrimental to our health.
become increasingly common AI use has become increasingly common in our daily lives.
play a role in… Cybersecurity plays an important role in online safety.
lead to…/result in… Excessive use of social media can lead to stress.
contribute to… Technology can contribute to better communication.
enable people to… Modern technology enables people to work from anywhere.
in the long/short term In the long term, we may be totally dependent on technology.
Practise talking to yourself about this topic by using such expressions. It will enrich your vocabulary, boost your confidence, and improve your fluency.
Until next time!
