Active learning ideas
This topic tackles the ethics of how products are made and how long they are meant to last. Students investigate 'planned obsolescence,' where products are designed to fail or become outdated, and contrast this with the 'Right to Repair' movement. This is a critical look at the social responsibility of the engineer in a consumer-driven world.
Activity 01
In small groups, students take apart a broken small appliance, like a toaster or a toy. They must identify if parts are glued, screwed, or clipped together and rate the 'repairability' of the item on a scale of 1 to 10.
What happens to products at the end of their life?
Activity 02
The class holds a trial for a fictional tech company accused of making their batteries impossible to replace. Students act as lawyers, engineers, and consumers to argue the ethics of the design and propose a 'fair' engineering solution.
Is planned obsolescence ethical?
Activity 03
Students look at a common object and brainstorm three ways to change the design so it can be easily taken apart for recycling. They share their ideas with a partner and sketch a 'circular' version of the product.
How can engineers promote a circular economy?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Products fail just because they are 'cheap.'
Sometimes failure is a deliberate design choice to encourage new sales. Comparing the internal components of an old 'built to last' tool with a modern equivalent helps students see the difference between cost-cutting and intentional obsolescence.
Recycling is the best way to handle old products.
Repair and reuse are actually much better for the environment than recycling. Hands-on repair tasks show students that keeping a product in use longer is the most effective way to reduce its overall environmental footprint.
Methods used in this brief
Engineering for Accessibility and Inclusion
Students analyse how engineering design can either exclude or empower individuals with diverse needs in society.
8 methodologies
Sustainable Design in the Community
Exploring the role of the engineer in creating sustainable solutions that benefit local communities and reduce environmental harm.
8 methodologies