Engineering for people and planet

OVERVIEW FOR SEMESTER 1, 2026

This unit covers the engineering design process, which is a method used by engineers from all disciplines to determine a solution to a problem or address a need. You will use design thinking models to define the problem, create innovative conceptual designs, prototype possible design solutions, refine several designs to a single final design, and determine the specifications of the final design. In order to simulate a real-world experience, you are required to determine the role of the stakeholders in the project, and consider the economic, environmental, Indigenous, social and ethical aspects of your proposal.

You will be working in a team throughout the semester to gain the communication skills which are highly desired by industries. You will be required to reflect on your work to help improve your interpersonal and teamwork skills contributing to your personal growth. You will also consider the value of engineering ethics and the Code of Ethics whilst learning the engineering design process. Engineers need to submit proposals and pitch their ideas to stakeholders within communities and their team members. They will give presentations to their peers, to their project managers, and to possible stakeholders to develop these presentation skills.

On completion of this unit, you should be able to participate in multidisciplinary conversations about the engineering design process.

OVERVIEW UPDATE - SEMESTER 2, 2026

This unit explores the role of engineering in addressing complex humanitarian, societal, and environmental challenges. Using design thinking as a guiding framework, it introduces approaches for developing engineering solutions that meet human needs while balancing technical, social, cultural, environmental and economic considerations.

The unit emphasises sustainable and ethical engineering practice by examining professional responsibilities, ethical principles, and codes of conduct that inform engineering decision-making. It also considers how engineers engage with diverse stakeholders and communities to develop inclusive, responsible and sustainable outcomes.

Students will develop skills in investigating complex issues, applying appropriate research methods, critically evaluating information, and synthesising evidence to support well-reasoned conclusions. The unit further promotes independent learning, critical thinking and adaptability in response to emerging technologies and evolving global challenges.

Through collaborative and multidisciplinary learning experiences, students will strengthen their communication, teamwork, and stakeholder engagement capabilities while developing an appreciation of engineering's role in improving the wellbeing of people and supporting a sustainable future for the planet.

Problem-based learning - You will be working in a group to solve an open-ended problem.

Active learning - You will engage in discussions, problem solving, case studies and other learning methods.

Enquiry-based learning - You will be encouraged to ask questions, conduct research and explore new ideas.

The minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of 3-6 hours of scheduled learning activities and 6-9 hours of independent study per week. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher-directed learning, peer-directed learning and online engagement. Independent study may include associated readings, assessment and preparation for scheduled activities.