Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/ethics-in-engineering
In today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape, the importance of ethics in engineering cannot be overstated. Coursera’s course, “Ethics in Engineering,” offers a deep dive into this critical subject through the lens of historical case studies that highlight the consequences of ethical lapses in engineering practices. Over the span of four weeks, participants will engage with unique case studies that not only illustrate engineering failures but also provide insights into the ethical dilemmas faced by engineers.
The course is structured into four distinct weeks, each focusing on a specific case study:
**Week 1: Introduction and Overview**
The course kicks off with an introduction to the instructor, Dr. Chesney, and a comprehensive overview of the course objectives. This week sets the stage for understanding the significance of ethics in engineering and prepares students for the discussions to come.
**Week 2: The DIA Baggage Handling Catastrophe**
The second week delves into the Denver International Airport’s baggage handling system failure. This case study serves as a poignant reminder of how technical oversights can lead to significant operational failures and public dissatisfaction. Students will analyze the backstory, the event itself, and the aftermath, fostering a rich discussion on accountability and ethical responsibility.
**Week 3: The Therac 25 Radiation Machine Malfunction**
In the third week, participants explore the tragic case of the Therac 25, a radiation therapy machine that malfunctioned and caused severe harm to patients. This case study emphasizes the critical need for rigorous testing and ethical considerations in medical engineering, prompting students to reflect on the moral implications of their work in life-and-death situations.
**Week 4: The Ariane 5 Rocket Launch Disaster**
The final week examines the Ariane 5 rocket launch disaster, a catastrophic failure that resulted from software errors. This case highlights the importance of thorough risk assessment and the ethical obligations engineers have to ensure safety and reliability in their designs. Students will engage in discussions about the lessons learned and how they can apply these insights to their future careers.
Overall, the “Ethics in Engineering” course is a must-take for anyone in the engineering field or those interested in the ethical dimensions of technology. The combination of video lectures, foundational literature, and interactive discussions creates a rich learning environment that encourages critical thinking and ethical reasoning. I highly recommend this course to engineering students, professionals, and anyone interested in understanding the profound impact of ethics in engineering practices.
By the end of the course, participants will not only have a deeper understanding of specific engineering failures but also a framework for approaching ethical dilemmas in their own work. If you’re looking to enhance your ethical awareness and responsibility as an engineer, this course is an excellent choice.
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/ethics-in-engineering