Nuclear Engineering Technology Students Capstone Experience To Assess The Technical Competencies: A Case Study

At Excelsior College, one particularly unique dimension of student assessment is the Integrated Technology Assessment (ITA). This portfolio-based assessment method is a capstone experience for Engineering Technology students, documenting their ability to integrate knowledge from various technical and general education areas and apply it in a meaningful way. The on-line learning environment facilitates a learner-centered approach to learning, with the learner as an active participant in the learning process. The approach requires that the teachers help learners to direct their own learning in ways that suit their individual learning styles. This manuscript describes the development and implementation of a Web CT-based course which requires the nuclear engineering technology students at Excelsior College to develop online portfolios reflecting technical competencies acquired by them during their academic studies and through practical experience. It is a capstone requirement in which students document their ability to integrate knowledge from technology areas, general education, and practical experience in order that program outcomes are achieved. The manuscript provides a complete description of the ITA process at Excelsior College. Details regarding the use of information technology in creating the on-line learning environment for ITA students are also presented.