| Abstract: | The uses of case studies of failures of technological systems are discussed, and methods for analysis are described. Starting from the simple examination of broken components in engineering, the article goes on to trace the development of systems methods for the study of accidents and large-scale disasters having technology as a major component. Methods used in two distance-learning courses are described, which employ the comparison of standard models of failure and success against the actuality of given scenarios. Details of the teaching and learning materials are set out, together with sources. Application is to aspects of design, manufacture, inspection, use and maintenance in engineering and technology management. The aim is to help engineers being educated to gain in the assurance of safety, through the study of its opposite, failure. |
