Design Fiction as a Novel Approach to Cultivate Awareness of Social Responsibilities: An Explorative Study in a Technical Writing Course for Engineering Students

Abstract

Introduction: It has long been advocated that engineers should enhance their social and ethical responsibilities. With the rapid advancement of science and technology, this imperative becomes increasingly pressing. About the case: This teaching case took place in a public research university in China. The primary objective is to enhance engineering students’ understanding of their social responsibilities. Situating the case: This study is an exploration of the application of design fiction, a commonly utilized practice in interaction design, within the context of a technical writing course. Methods/approach: Within the study, participants were tasked to engage in creating speculative scenarios of future food in 2040. This scenario revolved around an imaginary technology related to food, envisioning its impact on people's lives and society. Through a structured process of guided speculation and critical reflection, participants wove together fragments of these future scenarios to craft complete fictional narratives. Results/discussion: The result of this investigation revealed that the fictions generated by participants encompass a diverse array of elements that manifest the writers’ heightened awareness of social responsibilities. Conclusion: We contend that this study introduces an innovative and engaging approach to the teaching of technical writing, one that holds promise as a valuable complement to the existing curriculum. Moreover, within the sphere of engineering education, this research underscores the potential of design fiction in nurturing a deeper understanding of social responsibilities among engineers, particularly on a “macroethical” scale.