Program Educational Objectives and Outcomes: How to Design a Sustainable, Systematic Process for Continuous Improvement

Abstract

ABET adopted recently two new criteria for evaluating engineering programs: Criterion 2 (Program Educational Objectives) and Criterion 3 (Program Outcomes). A systematic process must be in place to assess the achievement of both the program outcomes - before students graduate - and the program educational objectives - after graduates leave the program. This process needs to be ongoing to ensure the continuous improvement of each program. The workshop addresses the design and implementation of a sustainable, systematic process for defining and assessing program educational objectives and program outcomes to satisfy ABET EC 2000 requirements. Results from the successful implementation of such a process will be presented. The workshop format will combine direct instruction, individual practice, interaction among the participants, and discussion. Participants will have an opportunity to develop their own tools and processes that suit their specific program.