Stage 2: Mapping the linkages between the UK SPEC learning outcomes for engineering courses and the global
dimension of engineering education
UK SPEC learning outcome The global dimension
Appreciate the social, environmental, ethical, economic and Opportunity to illustrate how these considerations vary greatly from place
commercial considerations affecting the exercise of their to place by using a wide range of examples and case studies from around
engineering judgment. the world
Demonstratecreativeandinnovativeabilityinthe synthesis of Opportunity to show the importance of creativity and innovation in
solutions and in formulating designs addressing global challenges and adapting solutions to a developing
country context
Abletocomprehendthebroadpictureandthusworkwithan Exploring the global dimension of engineering is essential for this
appropriate level of detail comprehension
Possess practical engineering skills acquired through, for The global dimension can be woven into project and design work, UK and
example, .... work experience; in individual and group project international volunteering and work placements with international
work and in design work engineering companies
Transferable skills and include problem solving, communication, Design and research projects especially multi-discipline and team based
and working with others. They also include planning exercises present excellent opportunities to incorporate the global dimen-
self-learning and improving performance sion and develop these transferable skills
Understanding of and ability to apply a systems approach to Systems thinking ranges from understanding how the components of
engineering problems engineering systems relate and impact on each other and whole life
analysis to understanding complexity in human, natural and economic
systems. The global dimension encourages students to place engineering
within its widest context and understand global - local and engineering -
society linkages.
Investigate and define a problem and identify constraints The global dimension promotes understanding of these constraints, their
including environmental and sustainability limitations, health complexity and how they vary according to the local context as well as
and safety and risk assessment issues appropriate tools to investigate and define a problem such as risk and
needs assessment and social and environmental impact assessment
Understand customer and user needs Global case studies illustrate the importance and challenges of identifying
end-user needs in unfamiliar contexts
Ensure fitness for purpose for all aspects of the problem Ensuring that all aspects of sustainability (such as operation and
including production, operation, maintenance and disposal maintenance capacity) are built into problem solving is a key aspect of the
global dimension
Knowledge and understanding of commercial and economic The global dimension deepens understanding of how this context varies
context of engineering processes greatly according to locality
Knowledge of management techniques which may be used to Management tools for environmental, social and ethical issues provide an
achieve engineering objectives within that context opportunity to explore the global dimension
Understanding of the requirement for engineering activities to The global dimension is essential to fully understand the contribution of
promote sustainable development engineering to sustainable development
The ability to develop, monitor and update a plan, to reflect a The global dimension enhances understanding of how the operating
changing operating environment environment varies considerably according to location and over time
Ability to use fundamental knowledge to investigate new and The global dimension is essential to assess the suitability and sustainability
emerging technologies of new and emerging technologies in different contexts
Awareness of the framework of relevant legal requirements The legal framework and its enforcement differs greatly between countries
governing engineering activities, including personnel, health, and sector. Global examples will help illustrate this
safety, and risk (including environmental risk) issues
Understanding of the need for a high level of professional and The global dimension is essential to fully understand the range of ethical
ethical conduct in engineering. issues engineers face
The ability to learn new theories, concepts, methods etc in The global dimension emphasizes the need to adapt and modify
unfamiliar situations. approaches in unfamiliar situations and to value new approaches and
perspectives
Ability to use appropriate codes of practice and industry Global case studies will illustrate how codes of practice and industry
standards. standards vary internationally
The Global Engineer Page 17