Washington, District of Columbia
June 23, 1996
June 23, 1996
June 26, 1996
2153-5965
7
1.389.1 - 1.389.7
10.18260/1-2--6287
https://peer.asee.org/6287
351
Session 2520
Society and Technology for Non-Engineering Majors
Robert L. Drake University of Tennessee at Martin
ABSTRACT
A course to introduce non-engineering students to technology and e n g i n e e r i n g is d e s c r i b e d . The course is entitled “Society and Technology” and stresses the use of digital computers in data collection, simulation, and control operations. One purpose of the course is to introduce non-engineering students to the methods, devices, and procedures of technology and engineering for reasons discussed in the paper.
Background
For many years the engineering accrediting agencies have stressed the need for engineering students to have a minimum number of courses in humanities and social studies. During the same time it has become generally agreed that a great need exists for understanding between members of society at large and members of professions embracing technology. It seems reasonable that courses in technology should be available, or even required, for the general student population if a basis for greater understanding between society and technology is to be achieved. This seems to be particularly important considering that the ratio of non-engineering students to engineering students is usually on the order of ten to one or twenty to one in most locations. It seems to make little sense to provide a “liberalizing” element in the education of five percent, say, of the student population and completely ignore such elements in the education in the remaining ninety-five percent that constitute the “liberal arts and humanities. “
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Drake, R. L. (1996, June), Society And Technology For Non Engineering Majors Paper presented at 1996 Annual Conference, Washington, District of Columbia. 10.18260/1-2--6287
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