DESCRIBING AND MEASURING THE ENGINEERING KNOWLEDGE BASED USING CONCEPT DOMAINS

Abstract

Abstract – We describe the chemical engineering knowledge base in terms of five distinct concept domains: i) mathematics and computation, ii) conservation, iii) equilibrium and spontaneity, iv) rates, and v) the structure and property of materials. These concept domains underpin the curriculum and evolve from disparate subject domains presented in the first year into a cohesive whole by graduation. The knowledge base for chemical engineering can thus be expressed in terms of achieving threshold concepts related to each of these domains. 
 This formulation of the knowledge base suggests that it may be examined using concept inventory testing. We provide examples of how such testing can be implemented in order to produce meaningful data on students’ level of concept attainment. We believe that this approach may be of interest to others as a robust and sustainable method for the ongoing assessment of CEAB Graduate Attribute 1.