Development And Implementation Of An Integrated Outcomes Based Assessment Plan For A New Engineering Program.

This paper describes development of an integrated assessment plan for a new mechanical engineering program as part of the preparation for the first ABET evaluation visit. To assess program learning outcomes and program educational objectives, the department has adopted numerous data collection and evaluation mechanisms. Courses at all levels of the curriculum have been selected to collect data. Course-based Fundamentals of Engineering Exam style tests, lab-based courses, senior capstone design project, field practicum, employer and graduate surveys and industrial advisory board feedback are utilized as assessment tools for both program learning outcomes and program educational objectives. Detailed description of the comprehensive assessment plan, its implementation, up-to-date results and plans for continuous improvement are presented.