Interactive Assessment Of Learning Outcomes In Introductory Electrical Engineering Classes
Hilkat S. Soysal, Oguz Soysal
2004 Annual Conference Proceedings
unpublished
The paper discusses the student learning outcomes in introductory level electrical engineering courses in terms of ABET criteria for program educational objectives. Courses taught by resident faculty in FSU are based on hands-on classroom and lab activities with one-on-one student-instructor interaction. In addition, web support is used in all introductory classes to enhance the assessment process. The paper presents the student profile, program objectives, and discusses the importance of the
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... troductory courses on recruitment and retention as well as adequate preparation to the upper level. Student background, interests, and career goals are continuously monitored through surveys. Learning outcomes are assessed by several tools such as course-specific evaluation forms, journals, minutes, and focus groups. Since each student has a different learning style, continuous monitoring helps understanding the differences among students and enhances teaching style to increase the students' attention and productivity. This paper describes the assessment procedures implemented in introductory level electrical engineering courses of the Collaborative Electrical Engineering program jointly offered by Frostburg State University (FSU) and University of Maryland College Park (UMCP). The outline of the program is presented in the following section with an emphasis on its features that affect the assessment methodology. Whereas all introductory courses are delivered in a traditional classroom format, the unique structure of the program requires that special considerations be taken in the development of a feedback system for curriculum improvement. Objectives and expectations set for introductory courses are described in terms of ABET 2000 criteria for program educational objectives. The paper describes the classroom level assessment methods implemented in various courses. The feedback system is discussed based on the observations and experience gained in the resident portion of the collaborative electrical engineering curriculum over the first six years of the program. Outline of the Program Frostburg State University (FSU) has been offering four-year Electrical Engineering program since 1997 in collaboration with University of Maryland College Park (UMCP). All introductory courses, upper division labs, and project courses are delivered by FSU faculty in traditional format. Most of the upper level classes are offered by UMCP Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering via Interactive Video Network (IVN). Following the ABET Accreditation Committee visit in fall 2002, the "Frostburg Collaborative Electrical Engineering Program" has been accredited as a separate program of the University of Maryland's Clark School of Engineering. and simple small town life, safer and more manageable campus, easier access to athletic and cultural activities, smaller class sizes, and more time to spend for study are the major advantages. Small engineering classes at FSU allow implementation of studio-type classroom activities with one-on-one student-instructor interactions, which are essential in outcomebased engineering education. Resident faculty members know students' strengths and weaknesses and can adjust the pace and style of their teaching accordingly. Collaborative engineering students have easier access to the instructors, advisors, and on-site lab, workshop, and computer facilities.
doi:10.18260/1-2--13471
fatcat:g62pw7yiy5btfbnnvcznjeyktu