EET Nationally-Normed Assessment Exam: First experiences and their relations to ABET outcomes

Ilya Grinberg, Ronald E. Land, Thomas M. Hall, Kelly Ann Lacroix, Steve MacHo, Mike Eastman

Research output: Contribution to journalConference articlepeer-review

1 Scopus citations

Abstract

In 2010 the first production run of the EET Nationally-Normed Assessment Exam developed by IEEE, SME, and Electrical and Computer Engineering Technology Department Heads Association (ECETDHA) took place with 19 different programs participating. The intent of such an exam was to provide programs with a reliable direct assessment tool to be used in the continuous improvement process within the realm of ABET accreditation1. Major emphasis in preparation and development of this exam was given to competencies in core technical areas of electrical and electronics engineering technology. It is clear that such an important assessment tool provides objective measurements of students' competencies in these areas as well as allows for benchmarking and identifies the areas of programs' improvements. Organizing and administering the EET exam revealed several opportunities for expanding the value of the test beyond that of simply an objective test of students' technical competence. It became clear that the exam also provided strong indications of students' application of several essential non-technical skills. Students volunteering for the exam displayed characteristics of team work (study groups during preparation for the exam), engagement in life-long learning, as well as commitment to quality, timeliness and continuous improvement. These important outcomes, if not initially intended, manifested themselves during the process. The paper will concentrate on the importance of the exam in assessing continuous improvement metrics from a technical perspective. Additionally, the potential opportunities to connect the exam to some of non-technical skills associated with employability are also investigated. Finally, faculty observations and student experiences will be described. The paper incorporates quantitative and qualitative data organized in mixed method study design.

Original languageEnglish
JournalASEE Annual Conference and Exposition, Conference Proceedings
StatePublished - 2011
Externally publishedYes
Event118th ASEE Annual Conference and Exposition - Vancouver, Canada
Duration: 26 Jun 201129 Jun 2011

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