Chapter 17: Vocabulary - Science and Technology (Detailed)

Introduction: Talking Tech and Science

As science and technology (wetenschap en technologie) increasingly shape our world, B2 level proficiency includes being able to discuss these topics with more detail and specific vocabulary. This involves understanding terms related to research, different scientific fields, technological advancements, computing, and environmental science.

This chapter expands on basic science/tech vocabulary, providing terms needed for more in-depth discussion.

Key Vocabulary Areas

Research and Methodology (Onderzoek en Methodologie):

het onderzoek (research, investigation)
de wetenschap (science)
de wetenschapper (scientist)
de onderzoeker (researcher)
het experiment (experiment)
de methode (method)
de data / de gegevens (data)
analyseren (to analyze)
de resultaten (results)
de conclusie (conclusion)
de theorie (theory)
de hypothese (hypothesis)
bewijzen (to prove)
het bewijs (proof, evidence)
publiceren (to publish)
het artikel / de publicatie (article / publication)
het laboratorium (laboratory)

Fields of Science (Wetenschapsgebieden):

de natuurkunde (physics)
de scheikunde (chemistry)
de biologie (biology)
de geneeskunde (medicine)
de wiskunde (mathematics)
de astronomie (astronomy)
de geologie (geology)
de psychologie (psychology)
de sociologie (sociology)
de ingenieurswetenschappen (engineering sciences)

Technology and Innovation (Technologie en Innovatie):

de technologie (technology)
technologisch (technological)
de innovatie (innovation)
innoveren (to innovate)
de uitvinding (invention)
uitvinden (to invent)
de ontwikkeling (development)
ontwikkelen (to develop)
de vooruitgang (progress)
kunstmatige intelligentie (KI) (artificial intelligence - AI)
robotica (robotics)
automatisering (automation)
digitaal (digital)
virtueel (virtual)

Computing and IT (Informatica en IT):

de computer (computer)
de software (software)
de hardware (hardware)
het programma (program)
de app / de applicatie (app / application)
het internet (internet)
de website (website)
de data / de gegevens (data)
de database (database)
het netwerk (network)
programmeren (to program)
de programmeur (programmer)
de code (code)
het algoritme (algorithm)
cybersecurity / digitale veiligheid (cybersecurity)

Energy and Environment (Energie en Milieu):

de energie (energy)
duurzame energie (sustainable energy)
zonne-energie (solar energy)
windenergie (wind energy)
fossiele brandstoffen (fossil fuels)
klimaatverandering (climate change)
de uitstoot (emission)
CO2 (kooldioxide) (CO2 - carbon dioxide)
recyclen (to recycle)
het milieu (environment)
milieuvriendelijk (environmentally friendly)
vervuiling (pollution)

Strategies for Learning Sci/Tech Vocabulary

Read Popular Science/Tech Articles: Look for articles in Dutch newspapers (NRC, Volkskrant), magazines (Kijk, New Scientist - Dutch edition), or websites (Tweakers.net, NU.nl tech).
Watch Documentaries/Explainers: Search for Dutch documentaries or YouTube channels explaining scientific or technological topics.
Focus on Your Interests: If you're interested in AI, focus on AI-related terms first.
Notice Cognates: Many scientific and technical terms are similar across languages (e.g., technologie, experiment, analyse), but be aware of false friends.
Use Glossaries: Look for online glossaries for specific fields if needed.

Discussing science and technology requires specific vocabulary related to research, fields of study, innovation, computing, and the environment. Building this vocabulary allows you to understand advancements, engage in discussions about their impact, and follow related news and information at a B2 level. Regularly reading or watching content about these topics in Dutch is an effective way to expand your knowledge.