Ethics in Engineering
Explore engineering ethics through case studies of famous failures. Learn key factors, outcomes, and ethical foundations in engineering.
Explore engineering ethics through case studies of famous failures. Learn key factors, outcomes, and ethical foundations in engineering.
This course examines engineering ethics through the lens of historical case studies involving notable engineering failures. Students will analyze four specific cases: the VW emissions scandal, the Denver airport baggage system failure, the Therac-25 radiation machine malfunction, and the Ariane 5 rocket launch disaster. For each case, the course explores the backstory, the disastrous event, its aftermath, and the resulting outcomes. Through video lectures, readings, discussions, and quizzes, students will gain insights into the key factors that led to these engineering failures and develop a working knowledge of ethical foundations in engineering. The course emphasizes reflection on engineering as a design discipline and its impact on human lives. Led by Dr. David Chesney, an expert with extensive industry and academic experience, this course is designed for engineering students and professionals but is accessible to anyone interested in understanding the underlying causes of engineering failures and their ethical implications.
4.7
(57 ratings)
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What you'll learn
Analyze key factors leading to major engineering failures through case studies
Understand the ethical implications of engineering decisions and their impact on society
Examine the outcomes and corrective actions resulting from engineering failures
Develop critical thinking skills for applying ethical principles in engineering practice
Gain insights into the complexities of real-world engineering challenges and ethical dilemmas
Learn to identify potential ethical issues in engineering projects before they lead to failures
Skills you'll gain
This course includes:
2.53 Hours PreRecorded video
8 quizzes
Access on Mobile, Tablet, Desktop
FullTime access
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There are 4 modules in this course
This course provides a comprehensive exploration of engineering ethics through the analysis of four significant case studies of engineering failures. The curriculum is structured to give students both theoretical knowledge and practical insights into the ethical considerations in engineering practice. Each week focuses on a different case study: the VW emissions scandal, the Denver airport baggage system failure, the Therac-25 radiation machine malfunction, and the Ariane 5 rocket launch disaster. For each case, students examine the backstory, the event itself, its aftermath, and the lessons learned. The course emphasizes the importance of understanding the context, technical details, and human factors that contribute to engineering failures. Through a combination of video lectures, readings, discussions, and quizzes, students develop critical thinking skills and learn to apply ethical principles to complex engineering situations. The course also encourages reflection on the broader implications of engineering decisions and the responsibility of engineers to society.
Week 1
Module 1 · 4 Hours to complete
Week 2
Module 2 · 3 Hours to complete
Week 3
Module 3 · 3 Hours to complete
Week 4
Module 4 · 2 Hours to complete
Fee Structure
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Instructor
Expert in Ethics and Engineering Leadership
David Chesney, Toby Teorey Collegiate Lecturer IV at the University of Michigan, combines years of experience in engineering and ethics to shape the next generation of responsible engineers and innovators. With a strong focus on ethical decision-making in technological innovation, David teaches the highly relevant Coursera course "Ethics in Engineering," exploring the moral considerations that inform engineering practices and design decisions. His work emphasizes preparing students and professionals to critically assess the societal implications of engineering solutions while maintaining technical excellence.
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4.7 course rating
57 ratings
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