Integrating STS methods into ethics education

The instructor made use of STS (and sociology) approaches. She first discusses that technology is a social construction, technology and society shape one another and then moves further to the discussion of values that are at interplay in the human-technology relations. This way there occurs a transition to ethical discussions on conflicting values, universality of values, possible actions to take and the like. It helps a lot to conclude the course by connecting to the concept of “participatory design”, which resonates well with engineering students. To exemplify concepts like Responsible Research and Innovation, Citizen Juries and Townhall Meetings can be emphasized.