Technology theories - BMEGT41A400

The goal of this course is to introduce the theories of technology regarding: its place in a society, the possibilities of control, how it changes; how innovation happens and how it shapes the future. The main topics covered are: engineering epistemology; large technological systems; push and pull innovation models; Schumpeterian innovation; risk and innovation; technology diffusion and adoption models; control and regulation of technology; technological startup theories. The course is facilitated by case studies. These may include: history of Kanban and agile methodology; history of AI; industrial revolutions; history of prizes like the X-prize; technological disasters; posthuman technology; internet; GMO; etc. This is an indicative list of case studies, some, but not all of these case studies will be discussed, based on student preference, and new ones may be introduced.

1. knows the basic activities, facts, limits of engineering and technology
2. knows the basic methdodological and legal contest of impact assessments and impact studies
3. knows the epistemic methods and their limits of engineering management, as well as the ethical constraints
4. knows and understands the aspects, foundations and terminology of the ancillary topics indispensable to her main profession: environmental protection, quality assurance, legal, economical and managerial fields.

1. applies integrated knowledge, to solve multi-disciplinary problems
2. possesses a keen sense of responsibility, quality; capability assessment and self-assesment, analysis and synthesis
3. is able to rely on intarnational professional background literature

1. open to self-education and self-improvement
2. is able to think in systems

1. possesses a sense of responsibility for sustainable development
2. stands up for the fundamental values of the field

lecture and guided discussion

• Rudi Volti: Society and Technological Change, Worth Publishers 2017.
• Joel Mokyr: Levers of Riches, Oxford University Press, 1990.
• COLLINGRIDGE, David. The social control of technology. (1982). ISBN: 978-0312731687

The evaluation of the outcomes outlined in 2.2 by class activity, simple homework and three midterm exams.

Three midterm exams, complemented by extra points earned during lectures and points for the homework.

• three midterm exams: 60
• simple homework: 30
• extra points: 10

Two out of the three midterms may be re-taken in the retake period. The better score will be counted for any midterms.

Consulted with the Faculty Student Representative Committee, approved by the Vice Dean for Education, valid from: 13.06.2022.

Overview of technology definitions and theories Relation between technology and social well-being Schumpeterian innovation Technology and Risk epistemology of engineering Technology and regulation Push, Pull, Cycles Technological lock-in Technology readiness levels leapfrog and other adoption modes Risk and innovation technology assessment