In order for each program to earn accreditation from the Engineering Accreditation Commission (EAC) of ABET, Inc. it must implement a process for continuous outcome assessment.
Outcomes are measures of how a program has achieved its objectives (essentially the goals of the program). For example if the program has an objective that students should know how to do mathematics, a useful outcome would be to measure if students can solve a differential equation.
A number of programs in The Henry Samueli School of Engineering have chosen to assess students following each course. Outcomes for most engineering courses have been identified and students are asked to honestly answer how well they agree or disagree that they have met the outcomes. This information, along with assessment instruments within the course (graded homeworks, exams, quizzes, projects, papers, etc.) help the faculty to determine and document that the program is functioning properly.
Outcome surveys differ significantly from teaching evaluations. Teaching evaluations allow students to provide feedback on the quality of the instruction received. While the quality of the instruction certainly plays a role in how well students meet the course outcomes, other factors contribute as well: How well prepared were students entering the course? Did the course cover all the material needed for students to meet the outcomes? Were laboratory facilities and course materials sufficient for students?
In each survey, students are asked to comment on the outcomes themselves. Are they appropriate for the course? Are they articulated clearly? Students are asked to comment on the relationship of the course within the program. Does the course have suitable preparation in the program? Does it help to prepare you effectively for later courses?
These surveys should only take a few moments to complete. A typical freshman will have one survey per quarter, sophomores one to two surveys, juniors and seniors three to four surveys. Don't be surprised if you have no surveys. Only engineering courses are surveyed, and not all engineering courses have outcomes identified.
It's very important that students complete these surveys each quarter including comments. Without the surveys, it's difficult to identify where the programs are working and where they needs improvement. Your input will help improve the program for yourself and those that follow you.
The survey data is temporarily stored with each student's information to track demographics (major, level, etc) and to allow students to edit the survey responses prior to the end of the quarter. All responses will be totally anonymous when gathered and presented after finals week. At no time will individual results or comments be presented with student identification. Participation is voluntary and non-participation involves no penalty. Students are encouraged to contact the Student Affairs Office should they have any questions or concerns about the study.
Aerospace Engineering Objectives and Outcomes
Chemical Engineering Objectives and Outcomes
Civil Engineering Objectives and Outcomes
Computer Engineering Objectives and Outcomes
Electrical Engineering Objectives and Outcomes
Environmental Engineering Objectives and Outcomes
Materials Science Engineering Objectives and Outcomes
Mechanical Engineering Objectives and Outcomes