To achieve this goal, a
comprehensive approach is needed. Students will learn about
general concepts in team work, creativity, design, technology,
policy, pollution control, ethics, marketing, and economics.
These topics will be explained by the discussion of case studies
and field trips. Guest speakers will deliver some of this
content. LCA will then be introduced through reading
assignments. One such book may be “Stuff: The Secret Life of
Everyday Things.” Thereafter projects will be initiated.
Diverse student teams of 2 or 3
members will be provided with guidelines on the selection of
their LCA project. Criteria will include very specific resource
intensive university functions or consumables that have the
potential to be economically modified resulting in saving
resources and pollution prevention. Example projects that Steve
Safferman used when he was at the University of Dayton in his
Introduction to Engineering Design class were replacing manual
light switches with motion detectors, replacing incandescent
light bulbs with compact fluorescent bulbs, installing motion
detectors on all sinks, and using hand dryers instead of paper
towels. Because of the nature of this proposed class and the
time line, more diverse and comprehensive projects are
anticipated that could include topics concerning savings
resulting from providing educational materials, the use of
technology, ubiquitous products used throughout campus, and
landscaping practices. Ultimately, the student teams will
choose their topic based on a prescribed approach to be
provided, with the approval of the instructors. The instructor
will emphasize a topic specific to the team’s interests and help
student’s determine their roles within the team that match their
major.
To comprehensively complete their
applied research project, students will start with a literature
review. They will also contact vendors, professionals in the
field, and university personnel to obtain needed data.
Thereafter, simple laboratory experimentation, surveys,
observations, and other such activities will be required.