Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/ethics-in-engineering
In the world of engineering, where innovation and progress are paramount, it’s easy to overlook the critical importance of ethics. However, as history has repeatedly shown us, ethical lapses can lead to catastrophic failures with far-reaching consequences. Coursera’s “Ethics in Engineering” course offers a compelling and insightful journey into this vital subject, using real-world case studies to illustrate the profound impact of ethical considerations.
This four-week course, led by Dr. Chesney, is structured around examining unique historical case studies of engineering failures. Each case, while distinct in its context, shares a common narrative arc: a backstory, a disastrous event, post-event ramifications, and ultimate outcomes. Through video lectures and foundational literature, the course delves into the intricacies of these events, providing a solid understanding of the facts and the ethical dilemmas involved.
Week 1 serves as a warm introduction, setting the stage for the course and introducing Dr. Chesney. It’s a chance to connect with fellow learners and grasp the overall learning objectives.
Week 2 dives into the first major case study: the DIA baggage handling catastrophe. This section meticulously grounds the understanding in facts, allowing learners to appreciate the complexities that led to the failure.
Week 3 shifts focus to the Therac-25 radiation machine malfunction. This case is particularly impactful, highlighting the severe consequences of ethical oversights in medical technology.
Finally, Week 4 tackles the dramatic Ariane 5 rocket launch disaster. This case study provides a powerful lesson in the high stakes of aerospace engineering and the importance of rigorous ethical review.
What makes this course stand out is its practical, case-study-driven approach. Instead of abstract theories, you’re presented with tangible examples of how ethical decisions (or the lack thereof) play out. The opportunity to discuss these cases with peers adds another layer of learning, fostering critical thinking and diverse perspectives. For any aspiring or practicing engineer, a solid grasp of ethics is not just beneficial, it’s essential. “Ethics in Engineering” on Coursera is an excellent resource for building that foundation. I highly recommend it.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/ethics-in-engineering