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America’s Stone Age Ports
Overview
What happens when innovation and automation replace traditional jobs and how does society adapt? America’s Stone Age Ports explores the clash between union workers resisting automation and the economic forces driving progress. Through real-world examples and the concept of "creative destruction," this video examines how new technologies disrupt industries, create opportunities, and challenge us to rethink the balance between job security and innovation.
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Grade level and subjects
• Recommended for grades 6-12
• Subjects: Science / Technology
• Works in Classroom, Hybrid, and Homeschool settings
What students will learn
By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:
• identify the main arguments for and against automation in American ports;
• analyze how automation impacts both individual jobs and the entire economy;
• evaluate the concept of "creative destruction" and its relevance to technological progress; and
• propose solutions for balancing automation advancements with worker concerns.
Key concepts and terms covered
Automation, Creative Destruction, and Union.
Sample discussion questions
• What is automation and how is it used in ports?
• How does the concept of "creative destruction" explain changes in the job market?
• How does automation in other countries compare to automation in the U.S.?
• What ethical concerns arise from the union leader’s willingness to harm others to protect union jobs?
• If shippers move to other ports, how could this affect workers at the union-controlled ports?
What’s in the free teacher’s guide
This printable 11-page Teacher's Guide includes a lesson description, learning objectives, key vocabulary, a fill-in viewing guide with answer key, discussion and analysis questions, and classroom activities.
Standards alignment
Aligned to state standards — use the SITC Standards Tool to match this video to the standards in your state.