Science and Technology in Singapore: The Mindset of the Engineering Undergraduate

Abstract

In trying to explain why some countries such as Switzerland, Japan, South Korea and Taiwan are able to create indigenous technological innovations and others are not, the answer seems to lie in the historical traditions and the sociocultural motivations, attitudes, interests and mindsets of the people within a society and, in general, the way they perceive technology and technological change. All these variables can either encourage or inhibit technological innovation. In order to strengthen its competitiveness, Singapore, too, has to deepen its indigenous technological base. Indeed, the small city‐state has often been regarded as a centre of research and development (R&D) in this part of the world. This paper provides an insight into the perceptions of a sample group of Singapore engineering undergraduates in three interrelated areas: (a) cultural values and attitudes towards science and technology; (b) engineering as a professional discipline; and (c) career options in engineering and R&D. The general impression is that engineering undergraduates in Singapore are not particularly excited about pursuing a lifelong interest and commitment in science and technology, especially in R&D. This trend would have a significant impact on the Singapore Government's aspiration to have Singapore develop its own technological innovations. Descriptors: Science and technology, research and development, engineering, culture, career.