Taking perspectives

In dealing with complex problems, it is helpful for engineers to become aware of habits and open their eyes to other ways of seeing and doing, as solving (today's) multidisciplinary wicked problems often require that. For example, if we consider a complex societal issue such as the energy crisis, engineers should recognize that the solution may not solely lie in developing new energy harvesting technologies.
Instead, they should also consider the systemic context that may need innovation, such as political structures, unequal access to resources, or ways of promoting sustainable policies and practices in their context.
The session will take participants through exploring different perspectives while talking about engineering issues of today and tomorrow. 
By recognizing the interconnectedness of various factors, engineers can contribute to more holistic and impactful solutions to wicked problems.
Recognizing one’s own perspective is the first step towards valuing other perspectives or approaches to a problem.
By understanding 'our own eyes', we can connect with and value other perspectives and alternate ways of doing something.

Facilitators: Tamara Milosevic and Helena Kovacs