Rethinking the Engineering Design Process: Advantages of Incorporating Indigenous Knowledges, Perspectives, and Methodologies

Abstract

A recent increase in interest in the inclusion of Indigenous Ways of Knowing in engineering education has led to the discussion on how to bridge the worldviews of Indigenous Peoples and modern engineers. A literature review was performed to identify issues in current engineering practice, explore the value of perspective in the process of problem solving, distinguish the differences between engineering and Indigenous worldviews, analyze how these worldviews are compatible and incompatible, and formulate a general approach and value system for engineers going forward. Findings show that there is a need to revise how engineers approach problems, and that the consideration of alternative perspectives can provide new avenues for solving problems. There were indications of potential for symbiosis between Indigenous cultures and engineering, as the inclusion of Indigenous knowledges in engineering and engineering education would not only preserve Indigenous cultures, but alsoimprove the quality of engineering design solutions.