Design And Implementation Of A Mechanical And Aerospace Program Assessment Model

This paper describes both the process and the content we at the SJSU College of Engineering experienced in designing, implementing and testing a model assessment system for engineering programs. Described in the context of the Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Programs, the paper’s focus is on the assessment system design and development, together with a critique based on pilot testing. More than two year’s development, initiated and coordinated at the college level, were involved in preparation for the SJSU Fall 1999 ABET general review. The assessment system involves three nested assessment and enhancement (A&E) feedback cycles: a course cycle supporting an outcomes cycle that in turn supports the overall degree program and department enhancement cycle. Documentation products and personnel links devised to provide connectivity and effectiveness required considerable evolution and clarification as the development took place; additional revision will occur as a result of the pilot testing used for the ABET review. Significant lessons were learned in terms of educating faculty concerning assessment and achieving faculty participation in, and contributions to, the assessment system. The system appears to work well with minor gaps and adjustments still needing to be addressed. Performance of this system shows it meets accreditation requirements as well as the requirement for a continuous program improvement system.