Panel Discussion: Global Engineering - What Does That Mean?

Abstract

Abstract Panel Discussion: Global Engineering - What Does That Mean? The term global engineering is still undefined even though it has been addressed by engineering programs for nearly two decades. Professional engineering organizations including the National Academy of Engineering (NAE), American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), ABET, and others have encouraged the expansion of global aspects of engineering (sometimes under the auspices of “professional skills”) but there are still questions regarding the body of knowledge, skills, abilities (KSAs), and attitudes needed to consider oneself a global engineer. The purpose of this panel discussion will be to continue the process of defining the necessary KSAs through a conversation based on both a recent literature review and the personal experiences of panelists and attendees who have worked to develop global engineering competencies in their students at universities and colleges within the USA. Discussion topics will include how to encourage students and faculty to embrace the complexity and uncertainty inherent in global issues that today’s engineers face such as those highlighted in the new Sustainable Development Goals from the United Nations and the National Academy of Engineers’ Global Grand Challenges. The premise of this discussion will be that there is no single definition of “global engineer,” but rather a range of perspectives and methods of facilitating the incorporation of global engineering concepts into individual engineers and the engineering academy (and industry) in general. All listed co-authors have agreed to participate in this panel. Suggested Layout of 90-minute Session Brief introductions of panel topic and panelists 5 minutes Overview of Individual Activities Managed by Panelists (5 minutes per person) 25 minutes Brief Q&A session to engage audience and panelists 10 minutes Break into small groups for activities/discussion < 5 minutes for rearranging, if necessary Group activity #1: How do YOU define global engineering? 12 mins to write; 8 mins for report out What should be included in a proposed body of knowledge? Participants write their ideas on large sheet of paper Representative at each table collates list of thoughts, and then someone from each table reports out Was there consensus within groups/across groups? Group activity #2: What does YOUR institution do to promote global engineering Representative at each table collects lists of activities from each school, then reports out 7 minutes to write; 8 mins for report out Group activity #3: Participants identify one actionable item they can take back with them to increase the discussion regarding global engineering at their institutions 7 mins to write; 3 mins for report Bring all participants back together to discuss findings – any “ah ha!” moments or thoughts? Any unique methods of engaging students in a global environment? 10 minutes