How to understand different perspectives in an interconnected world
Implementing solutions to today's engineering challenges requires multidisciplinary, collaborative and participatory approaches; but working with others effectively requires an understanding of other peoples perspectives. This is not easy to achieve. Understanding different perspectives takes time; it requires us to develop deep relationships with others by really listening and understanding the other people.
The world is becoming more interconnected. The need to understand the perspectives of others will only increase in the coming years. The future will require engineers to work effectively with people from a wide range of cultures and backgrounds, in order to find innovative solutions to problems.
In just over 6 weeks time, I will be travelling to Lisbon to participate in an EYE conference - the European Young Engineer Forum (EYEF). EYEF brings together young engineers from across Europe together to share thoughts, work and expertise. The conference has the theme of "Collaborative Engineering – The European way.
I am financing the trip myself as I believe it will achieve three personal objectives: to educate myself about different approaches to engineering in different cultures, to expand my horizons, and to challenge my own UK based perspective of the world. In addition, the conference is an opportunity to visit a new European city and make new friends with people from across Europe. This is just one way of learning about dealing with different perspectives in an interconnected world. Please feel to share your views on ways of understand the perspectives of people from different cultures and backgrounds.
Jon - I'll make sure to share any actions and lessons learned from the conference.
I know I've learned a lot from having colleagues and clients from across Europe. Be sure to try a pastel de nata and a shot of Ginjinha!
Well written Lincoln Smith hope all goes well in Lisbon!