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The professional engineer: Virtues and learning

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Abstract

The ethical codes of the professional engineering bodies identify the responsibilities of the engineer. Of equal importance to the codes are the virtues which enable the engineer to fulfil these responsibilities. After briefly reviewing such virtues this paper argues that the systematic learning of virtues is possible in a formal way through learner centred learning. Central to this learning experience is the development of integrity which focuses the other major virtues and enables reflection upon them. A review of undergraduate courses suggests how this can be achieved.

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Rev’d. Dr. Simon Robinson is a lecturer in the Centre for Business and Professional Ethics at the University of Leeds.

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Robinson, S., Dixon, R. The professional engineer: Virtues and learning. SCI ENG ETHICS 3, 339–348 (1997). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11948-997-0040-4

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11948-997-0040-4

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