A Study Of Risk Communication In Engineering And Management Curricula

Abstract

An examination of problems in risk assessment and communication among management and engineering disciplines is undertaken in an attempt to recognize inadequacies in engineering students' skills in properly communicating risk. This paper presents a study devised to test a set of hypotheses concerning opportunities for improvement in engineering curricula. A better understanding of these shortcomings can lead to the development of methods to improve the learning process for students of engineering in this area. Additionally, within an educational framework, enhanced interaction between engineers and managers would provide for a more effective relationship in industry. This paper describes this protocol study in detail along with observations of students' communication. Data is presented, conclusions drawn and recommendations given. It is believed that certain areas that contribute to the development of the skill of communication across fields are lacking in engineering curricula. This study attempts to identify these areas to provide insight into the nature of risk communication problems in industry.