Material Detail

Public policy issues are important to every field of engineering. Yet, most engineering students know little about the topic. For most students, however, an entire course focused on the topic is not necessary. For example, a class on engineering design could incorporate a case study on 3D printing policy.

This course will introduce students to the interrelationship of engineering and public policy, how to conduct neutral policy analysis, and then apply that knowledge in case studies to practice the skills they have learned. The modules takes a flipped classroom/active learning approach by using short videos to educate students, activities to practice the skills taught, and incorporates real-world examples such as hydraulic fracturing, drones, and 3D printing.

Additional Course Details

Topics Covered:(1) Critical thinking of public policy; (2) performing neutral policy analysis; (3) designing engineering policy to meet desired needs within realistic constraints such as economic, environmental, and social contexts [ABET criteria 3c]; and (4) understanding the impact of engineering solutions in a global, economic, environmental, and societal context [ABET criteria 3h]