An empirical, comparative approach to engineering ethics (education) in international and cross-cultural contexts A study concerning Chinese engineering students' knowledge of and views concerning contents and concepts related to engineering ethics

摘要

A study was conducted concerning Chinese engineering students' knowledge of and opinions about contents and concepts related to engineering ethics. The study was motivated by concerns regarding 1. the ethical standards of Chinese industries/engineers and their increasingly global presence 2. the nature of engineering ethics research/education in China and feasibility of introducing Western curricula for engineering ethics, and 3. general effectiveness of education in ethical training, based on findings in behavioral ethics and moral psychology. To address these concerns, a survey was adapted from a study previously conducted by Robert McGinn, at Stanford University, and then administered to different types of Chinese engineering students, at Shanghai Jiao Tong University, so as to compare the response data of students from these universities. As with McGinn's study, it was discovered that substantial confusion exists regarding the nature of ethical issues and conflicts. Based on findings from this data and experience educating Chinese and non-Chinese engineering students on engineering ethics in international and cross-cultural contexts, these responses are explained and tentative recommendations are made regarding how to improve such education in these contexts.