Introduction to the Socially Engaged Design Process Model

Socially Engaged Design (SED) is a human(ity) centered approach to engineering and design. This approach considers the broad contexts in which design and engineering solutions are situated, taking into account social, cultural, political, economic, and environmental factors. Socially Engaged Design is dynamic and iterative, and invites engineers and designers to consider how their own agency, power, identities, and motivations shape how they define challenges and make engineering and design decisions.

Socially Engaged Design Process Process Model (2024)

Key Questions Discussed in this Session

• What is design and how does the SED process model differ from other design models?
• What role do people, context, self, and equity play in the design of engineering solutions?
• What is illuminated when the SED process model is used as a framework to analyze real-world examples of engineering solutions?

Core Learning Activities

• Discuss the core characteristics and elements of the SED process model
• Analyze two real-world examples of engineering solutions using the SED model as a framework for analysis
• Discuss the role of engineers and designers in considering the stakeholders and social contexts impacted by their solutions 

Key Themes

• Socially Engaged Design Process Model
• Design Process Models in Engineering
• Contextual Factors in Engineering and Design
• Stakeholder Needs and Experiences 

What Do You Get?

Facilitated Learning Package

For instructors teaching the material in an 80 minute session.

• Instructor Orientation Guide
• Lesson Plan for 80-minute class session
• Student Pre-Work: SED Introductory video (linked separately on this page)
• Slide Deck with Facilitation Script, Annotations, and Supplemental Bibliography
• Supplemental Instructor Resource: SED Booklet
• Assessment Prompts

Independent Learning Package

For learners to complete asynchronously.

• Instructor Orientation Guide
• Independent Learning Document with embedded activities and questions
• Supplemental Instructor Resource: SED Booklet
• Assessment Prompts

Where Might You Use This Resource?

Examples include:

• First-year students in foundational design courses for different disciplines
• Sophomores in required class in Nuclear Engineering
• Students in co-curricular design teams
• Master students in information-based community engagement course
• Future leaders in summer institute on global health