This course will familiarize students with the skills needed to analyze the social and political impact of engineering on society and the environment. It is ideal for engineers seeking to complete the professional development requirements of the Ordre des ingénieurs du Québec.
The instructor is Dr. Brandiff R. Caron from the Faculty's Centre for Engineering in Society.
Date: Saturday, May 25, 2013. 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
Location: Engineering, Computer Science and Visual Arts Integrated Complex, Room EV 3.309, 1515 Ste. Catherine St. W., Montreal
Charge: $300 (plus tax). A certificate is provided upon completion of the course.
Objectives
Areas covered include:
- Analysis of the social and political implications of engineering practice.
- Thinking through real-world case studies.
- Effective social and ethical problem-solving methods.
- Effective communication of social and ethical aspects of engineering.
Course description
Engineering is about design under constraint. The engineer designs devices, components, subsystems, and systems and, to create a successful design, in the sense that it leads directly or indirectly to an improvement in our quality of life, must work within the constraints provided by technical, economic, business, political, social, and ethical issues. This course provides participants with both theoretical understanding and practical techniques for understanding and navigating these constantly shifting constraints.
Credit hours: 7.5
Instructor
Dr. Brandiff R. Caron is a lecturer in the Center for Engineering in Society at Concordia University. He holds a PhD in Science and Technology Studies from Virginia Polytechnic and State University (Virginia Tech), an MA in Philosophy of Science from the Virginia Tech as well, and a BA in Philosophy from Virginia Commonwealth University. Dr. Caron's research focuses on the intersections between democracy theory and science and technology policy.