Unconventional Wisdom
“If everyone is thinking alike, then somebody isn’t thinking,” Gen. George S. Patton famously declared. Despite the proven benefits of diverse ideas, however, many institutions often discourage out-of-the-box approaches. That need not be the case, as this issue’s features illuminate.
In our cover story, Prism chief correspondent Tom Grose offers a fresh take on a retro power source. Once touted as the fuel of the future, hydrogen energy lost its clean, green reputation because of greenhouse gases released during production. Increased use of solar and wind power, plus the potential of carbon capture and sequestration technologies to mitigate climate change, are bringing hydrogen back for another look. As countries worldwide seek to meet rising energy needs while reducing their carbon footprint, new hydrogen technologies could become an important part of the mix.
Frequent Prism contributor Beryl Lieff Benderly highlights a unique human-centered design course at Olin College that aims to help students learn that the best solutions are those that serve the user—not provide the most high-tech bells and whistles. Team taught with an anthropology professor, Engineering for Humanity focuses on studying an unfamiliar culture: older adults. Working with volunteers from their community, students conduct interviews and observe their “clients” in their home environments to generate solutions that are often simple but “really matter.”
Our third feature, by Pierre Home-Douglas, highlights some nontraditional ways that engineers can more effectively share ideas, information, and opinions with the public. Newspaper op-eds no longer are the single best outreach option; digital platforms and multimedia choices abound. Home-Douglas offers practical tips based on expert experience for engineering academics who want to broaden their impact and reap the career benefits.
Also in this issue: ASEE’s 2022 election winners. Congratulations to President-Elect Doug Tougaw and the new Board members, selected from a slate of outstanding candidates. Please give careful consideration to the proposed motion to amend the Society’s Constitution and add a new Vice President for Scholarship position. Electronic ballots should be completed by May 6.
As always, Prism welcomes your ideas and unconventional wisdom.
Eva Miller
e.miller@asee.org