Presentation Information
[PL-01]Engineering Education for a Better World
Agnieszka Miguel (American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE))
Engineering education has continually evolved to meet the changing needs of society. It has progressed from teaching engineering science, to preparing engineers for professional practice, and today, to preparing engineers who can improve the world. As engineers confront increasingly complex global challenges, including climate change, sustainable development, public health, artificial intelligence, resilient infrastructure, and equitable access to technology, engineering education must prepare graduates who combine technical excellence with ethical leadership, systems thinking, and a commitment to serving society.
This presentation explores how engineering educators are embracing this broader vision of engineering education. Drawing on examples from the American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE) community, the talk will highlight initiatives such as humanitarian engineering, Engineering for One Planet, community-engaged teaching and research, and the integration of social and economic context into core engineering courses. Together, these examples demonstrate that societal impact is not limited to specialized programs. It can be intentionally embedded throughout the engineering curriculum, from introductory courses to capstone design experiences.
The presentation will also examine the important role of professional societies in advancing engineering education by fostering innovation, sharing effective practices, supporting faculty development, and building communities that collaborate across disciplines, institutions, and national boundaries. As the world's challenges become increasingly interconnected, international partnerships among engineering educators are more important than ever.
By sharing lessons from the ASEE community, this presentation invites participants to consider how engineering education can inspire students not only to become outstanding engineers, but also to become leaders who improve lives, strengthen communities, and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable, and prosperous world.
This presentation explores how engineering educators are embracing this broader vision of engineering education. Drawing on examples from the American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE) community, the talk will highlight initiatives such as humanitarian engineering, Engineering for One Planet, community-engaged teaching and research, and the integration of social and economic context into core engineering courses. Together, these examples demonstrate that societal impact is not limited to specialized programs. It can be intentionally embedded throughout the engineering curriculum, from introductory courses to capstone design experiences.
The presentation will also examine the important role of professional societies in advancing engineering education by fostering innovation, sharing effective practices, supporting faculty development, and building communities that collaborate across disciplines, institutions, and national boundaries. As the world's challenges become increasingly interconnected, international partnerships among engineering educators are more important than ever.
By sharing lessons from the ASEE community, this presentation invites participants to consider how engineering education can inspire students not only to become outstanding engineers, but also to become leaders who improve lives, strengthen communities, and contribute to a more sustainable, equitable, and prosperous world.