Andrew Fox's fPET-2010 presentation

1. Integrating Philosophy into the Education of Engineers: Some results from the UK Andrew Fox. Marine Science and Engineering, University of Plymouth, Devon, UK

2. Aim of presentation To inform the current debate on philosophy in engineering in two ways: By presenting results from a study, conducted in 2005-6, that was designed to explore the philosophical issues that were occupying the minds of engineers at that time in the UK. To assess what progress has been achieved towards the implementation of ideas emanating from the study.

3. Structure of presentation Discussion forum hosted by the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), UK Workshop hosted by the Higher Education Academy (HEA), Engineering Subject Centre, UK Conclusions

4. ICE Discussion forum Engineering and Philosophy October 2005-Sept 2006 373 postings 61 members 40 regular contributors 27 topics 14 postings per topic (ave) Main philosophical issues: What is an engineer? How important is ethics in engineering? What do engineers do? What is philosophy? How important are art and science in engineering?

5. Delegates were asked to engage with a number of questions grouped around three themes: Defining the concept of a PoE Building a PoE into the educational programme of engineers Moving a PoE forward Note: PoE – Philosophy of Engineering

7. Consider engineering’s commitment to the real world – pragmatism, utility, practical know-how

8. Understand the role of technology in engineering – modelling, experimentation, testing

9. Understand the links between science and engineering – the application of science, not precise, how is engineering different

10. Understand the network of interdisciplinary concepts that make up engineering – has this led to a crisis of identity?

11. Understand the nature of professionalism – rigour, process, practicality, ethics, responsibility

14. Encourage the questioning of assumptions, critical thinking, argument, decision making and moral judgements

16. Can it be taught – staff with credibility in both disciplines are needed, cognate disciplinary material does exist, issues and case studies help,

18. Continue discussions along the lines of the ICE e-forum discussion

19. Build a database or centre where interested individuals can gain access to information and discussions

20. Contact philosophy departments and encourage more philosophers to engage with the debate

21. Organise more face to face meetings with a focus on issues relevant to a philosophy of engineering

22. Encourage institutional support for the idea

24. Conclusions

25. One final thought Cogito ergo sum! Facio ergo ingeniare?