How Well Is Engineering Education Incorporating Societal Issues?

Abstract

Abstract The formal undergraduate engineering curriculum of a leading North American university was examined in terms of the extent to which students learn to incorporate an understanding of how technology affects human life, society and the biosphere into engineering theory and design in order to ensure a greater compatibility between technology and its contexts. Faculty publications and theses were also examined. Given current economic, social and environmental trends and policies, the study shows cause for deep concern, while at the same time identifying a largely untapped potential for engineers to assist society in overcoming some of its current challenges while helping to reduce the drop‐out rate and attract more persons to engineering.