Authored by: Lafayette College EGRS 451 group (Jake Hyatt, Ari Langman, and Trevor Quiel)

Date: Fall 2013

Course Instructor: Professor Cohen

Project Links: Memo and Website

Abstract: As society moves toward a future filled with technological uncertainty we must make sure that our generation continues to be exposed to new intuitive educational techniques. All throughout Engineering Studies we have learned how engineering and technology shape society. We decided to take this concept and further develop it by examining how a technology that benefits and hinders society. In order to successfully integrate engineering technology and education we implemented a case study by utilizing the study of additive manufacturing and its effect on society. How can 3D printing as a case study in ES101 introduce students to the study of technology and society? Encompassing the topics of engineering studies, with the technology of 3D printing, will develop a contextual backdrop on 3D printing that will shed light on the positive and negative effects it will have on society. We implemented discussions and a curriculum designed to answer questions surrounding additive manufacturing’s affects on society through policy, environmental and economical contexts. This will help provide a better understanding of sustainable projects that do not adversely affect our society, but rather develop our society in a positive way. After the curriculums incorporation into ES 101, an informed decision must be made regarding 3D printings role in society. If 3D printing becomes a widely used technology within our society, a semester course should be considered for implementation.

Tags: EGRS 451, Fall 2013, 3d printing, additive manufacturing, ES 101, technology and society