TEC 110: Engineers & The World Notes

Course Overview

  • Course Purpose: To train learners in understanding the global role of engineers, the social dimensions of the engineering profession, the need for sustainability, and the life of an engineering student.

Course Objectives

  • Enable understanding of:

    • Engineering profession in the global society.

    • Impacts of engineering and technology on society and the environment.

    • The interrelations between engineering and socio-economic development.

    • Concepts of environmental stewardship and sustainable development.

    • Professionalism in engineering and aspects of life as an engineering student.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, learners should be able to:

  • Explain the duty of engineers in a global society.

  • Identify the impacts of the engineering profession on society.

  • Describe engineering's role in environmental stewardship and sustainable development.

  • Analyze interactions between engineering and social, economic, and cultural factors.

  • Recognize key aspects of life as an engineering student.

Course Content

Engineering Profession and Society

  • Duties of engineers in various communities, towns, and cities.

  • Influence of engineering and technology on both society and the environment.

Socio-Economic System and Development

  • Components defining a socio-economic system.

  • Engineers' roles in economic, social, and developmental aspects.

  • Emerging trends affecting these systems.

Environmental Stewardship and Sustainability

  • Definitions and concepts surrounding environmental stewardship.

  • Engineers' responsibilities regarding sustainability and climate change.

Understanding Ethical Problems

  • Overview of ethical thought and theories:

    • Utilitarianism: Evaluating actions based on outcomes.

    • Duty Ethics: Ethics based on adherence to rules and duties.

    • Rights Ethics: Protecting inherent rights of individuals.

    • Virtue Ethics: Focusing on moral character.

  • Ethical problem-solving techniques:

    • Issue analysis.

    • Line drawing and flow charting.

    • Addressing conflict problems.

Engineering Professionalism and Ethics

  • Fundamental principles guiding engineering practices:

    • Rules of practice and professional obligations.

    • Contractual obligations and codes of ethics.

    • Key values: trustworthiness, moral responsibility, personal integrity, accountability.

    • Understanding and navigating conflicts of interest.

Life as an Engineering Student

  • Aspects of well-being, group dynamics, conflict resolution strategies.

  • Importance of time management, planning, problem-solving skills, and academic honesty.

Instructional Strategies & Learning Activities

  • Methods:

    • Lectures and in-class discussions.

    • Group activities and portfolio projects.

    • Self-guided learning, class presentations, and case studies.

  • Instructional Tools: Digital projectors, whiteboards, blackboards, and online learning platforms.

Assessment Components

  • Continuous Assessment Tests and Tasks: 40% of final grade.

  • End of Semester Examination: 60% of final grade.

Core References

  • Bell, S. (2011). Engineers, Society and Sustainability; (ESS) Synthesis, Morgan & Claypool Publishers.

Further Reading

  1. Fleddermann, C.B. (2012). Engineering Ethics, 4th edition. Pearson Prentice Hall.

  2. Cathleen L. (2013). Engineering in Society. Royal Academy of Engineering.

  3. James G. (2008). The Ethics of Climate Change: Right and Wrong in a Warming World, Continuum Publishers.

  1. Fleddermann, C.B. (2012). Engineering Ethics, 4th edition. Pearson Prentice Hall.
    This book offers an extensive exploration of ethical issues faced by engineers in practice. It examines the principles of engineering ethics, provides case studies, and discusses the implications of ethical decision-making in engineering careers.

  2. Cathleen L. (2013). Engineering in Society. Royal Academy of Engineering.
    This publication focuses on the role of engineering within society and how engineers can contribute positively to societal development. It discusses various socio-economic contexts in which engineering operates and the responsibilities of engineers towards societal well-being.

  3. James G. (2008). The Ethics of Climate Change: Right and Wrong in a Warming World, Continuum Publishers.
    This book investigates the ethical dimensions of climate change, including the responsibilities of individuals and organizations in combating climate issues. It addresses moral questions related to climate justice, equity, and the ethical obligations towards future generations in the context of environmental sustainability.