Philosophy of Engineering
Module ED0085
This module handbook serves to describe contents, learning outcome, methods and examination type as well as linking to current dates for courses and module examination in the respective sections.
Module version of WS 2011/2
There are historic module descriptions of this module. A module description is valid until replaced by a newer one.
Whether the module’s courses are offered during a specific semester is listed in the section Courses, Learning and Teaching Methods and Literature below.
| available module versions | |
|---|---|
| SS 2012 | WS 2011/2 |
Basic Information
ED0085 is a semester module in German language at Bachelor’s level which is offered in winter semester.
This Module is included in the following catalogues within the study programs in physics.
- Catalogue of soft-skill courses
| Total workload | Contact hours | Credits (ECTS) |
|---|---|---|
| 60 h | 30 h | 2 CP |
Content, Learning Outcome and Preconditions
Content
First we will introduce fundamental concepts of model and systems theory which are central for the natural and engineering sciences: What is a dynamical system? Which applications exist in physics, chemistry, biology, and electrical engineering? What distinguishes linear from non-linear dynamics? What is the connection between causality and control? What is the meaning of determinism, stochastics, and probability? How are evolution and technology linked up? Besides the methodological-epistemological foundations of natural and engineering sciences we will cover the historical and sociological development of science and technology: How do technological-scientific discoveries and inventions arise? What is the connection between technological-scientific innovation dynamics and economical-social development in the age of globalization? To what extent does the engineer bear responsibility? How can the impacts of technology be assessed?
Learning Outcome
After successful participation in the module, students are able to understand interdisciplinary references in engineering problem areas. They know the foundations of scientific method and are able to identify ethical statements about technology and to describe ethical conflicts by means of examples.
Preconditions
None
Courses, Learning and Teaching Methods and Literature
Courses and Schedule
| Type | SWS | Title | Lecturer(s) | Dates | Links |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| VO | 2 | Philosophy of Engineering (MSE) |
singular or moved dates |
eLearning |
Learning and Teaching Methods
The module consists of lectures where the theoretical knowledge is conveyed by the professors in terms of presentations.
Media
PowerPoint presentations, documents online
Literature
Bucciarelli L.L. (2003): Engineering Philosophy, Delft University Press, Delft; Mainzer K. (2007): Thinking in Complexity, Springer: New York 5. Aufl.; Mainzer K. (2008): Komplexität, UTB-Profile: Paderborn
Module Exam
Description of exams and course work
The course achievement is determined by an written exam which is not graded, where students demonstrate their understanding of interdisciplinary references, epistemological foundations and ethical problems of engineering sciences. Questions and exercises concern the whole content of the course. No resources besides pen and paper are allowed.
Exam Repetition
There is a possibility to take the exam in the following semester.