Presentation by Angela Bielefeldt, PhD (University of Colorado, Civil, Environmental & Architectural Engineering Professor) Angela will give approximately a 30-minute presentation and then lead a discussion. An RSVP to Theryn Ridge is appreciated to plan for refreshments. Abstract: The design process might be considered the quintessential activity of engineers. How we teach students about design communicates our values about the appropriate balance between technical and non-technical factors in engineering. For example, the human centered design process places care for people as…

Solving Problems that Matter (and getting paid for it!) Lecture given by Dr. Rachel Dzombak  Thursday 11/09 6-7 pm Marquez 126 What is the role of engineers in designing a more desirable future? What careers exist that allow you to leverage your passion and education AND make money at the same time? The world is facing an increasing number of “wicked” problems -- ranging from environmental degradation to food insecurity to income inequality. New problem-solving approaches are required to bring…

Presented by Beth Rieken. The current paradigm in engineering education promotes linear, convergent thinking focused on gaining technical knowledge. Although convergent thinking is important, divergent thinking is critical to considering the context in which engineering problems are situated and to generating innovative approaches to address those problems. Mindfulness fosters divergent thinking and can be cultivated through practice. This talk presents research linking mindfulness to three engineering outcomes: divergent thinking in an idea generation task, divergent thinking in an engineering problem…

Guest Lecture by Mark Huerta, ASU/PhD Candidate, Engineering Education Systems & Design There is a growing recognition that 21st century competencies and skills (e.g. creativity, innovation, problem-solving, resilience, teamwork, and leadership) are important in developing “changemakers” or leaders capable of enacting positive change within their communities. This talk will discuss Huerta’s efforts within this space as a social entrepreneur starting a non-profit and becoming an instructor/mentor in human-centered design and social entrepreneurship. Huerta will share details of his dissertation research,…

Should questions about ethics, identity and diversity be included in Computer Science courses? If so, what is the best way to include them? Dr. James Malazita, Dept of Science & Technology Studies at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute discusses the challenges in infusing ethics into technical education and tactics he has used to bridge this gap. In addition, he surveys the ways that these tactics can help diversity initiatives on campus. Please RSVP, as lunch will be provided.

Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences Division , Engineering, Design and Society Division & Daniels Fund Presents Magical Unrealism: Literary Form and Software Meet in BioShock Infinite by Dr. James Malazita   Does software have literary form? Can game development software shape the kinds of stories we can even tell? In this talk, Dr. James Malazita discusses tensions that occur when narrative form meets computational system. Focusing on the BioShock Infinite character, Elizabeth, the talk will show how Magical Realism is…