Values matter
Different rankings and studies show that, among the most relevant skills for companies, honesty and ethical commitment, the ability to learn and adapt to change and teamwork stand out. Companies point to interpersonal and communication skills, the ability to analyse and solve problems, results orientation, technical knowledge of the profession and the ability to work in multicultural and multidisciplinary environments as another group of competences that are necessary for the correct performance of professional activity.
For this reason, within the framework of the Strategic Plan, the School of Industrial Engineering seeks to achieve three objectives: to provide good technical training, to ensure that graduates are valued and hired, and to offer comprehensive training, that they are ‘good people’. It should be noted that, when registering, all EEI students sign a Code of Ethics in which they commit themselves, among other things, not to cheat in their work, not to use means that are not allowed… From the School of Industrial Engineering we understand that the University has to transmit knowledge, but also inculcate values among its students. Nobody wants to hire an engineer or (professional) who does not have them.
Ethical commitment
On the other hand, we understand that the competence related to Ethical Commitment must be shown through the following elements:
- A consistent behaviour with personal (academic) values.
- Capacity for self-criticism.
- Analyse the social and environmental impact of scientific-technical solutions.
Ethical commitment is the ability to think and act according to universal principles based on the value of the individual and oriented towards their full involvement in society.
This competence is present in each and every one of the other competences that make up the degree programmes. Its transversal nature is unquestionable.
The critical and self-critical capacity is the behaviour that questions the premiums and interest in the foundations on which the ideas, actions and judgements are based, both allied and their own.
Levels of performance
The performance of the elements of this competence can be described through three levels:
- Level 1: use and respect codes of good practice in the university environment related to the degree/profession.
- Level 2: act in accordance with codes of good practice and professional ethics.
- Level 3: propose strategies of action framed in the codes of ethics in university/professional environments.
