College Student Perceptions of Bioengineering Ethics Education

摘要

The purpose of this paper is to explore bioengineering, or biomedical engineering, college students' perceptions and thoughts pertaining to bioengineering ethics education at a state university in the United States. As the students in this study belong to a newly developed undergraduate bioengineering program, the curriculum is continually refined and improved with each class of undergraduate students. Engineering colleges in the United States generally recognize the importance of these topics within their curriculum, but have often struggled with implementation. This research study utilized in-depth, semi-structured interviews to assess current bioengineering students' perceptions to better understand their interest and motivations towards engineering ethics. Summarizing the findings, students demonstrated an awareness and appreciation for their chosen field of study, and the impact it has on society. The direct connection of bioengineering on human health was readily acknowledged, as were the cascading impact of seemingly small decisions. In many ways, the engineering department in the study is helping to educate the next generation of engineers, valuing knowledge of health, safety, and social implications. Students respond positively when faculty share professional ethical dilemmas in the classroom. Students are listening to these stories, mulling over questions raised in class, and taking the curiosity with them outside of the classroom.