No need to excuse yourself like that. Feel free to ask. That's what this forum is about as far as I can tell.

The only thing to do in order to gain more tech points faster is to research science. That in itself needs tech points, I know, but it is the only way besides engaging a lot of villagers to research. Researched science will make it possible to gain tech points faster, although even with level three it takes a while. This is no speed game exactly.... If you are running out of food, the children might help you by picking up mushrooms.