Norfolk State University (NSU) has developed an assessment and evaluation process (AEP) based on the goal of enhanced student learning, application of diverse assessment strategies, and continuous improvement. The purpose of this Targeted Infusion Project is to accelerate the full implementation of NSU’s AEP, related to three Engineering Criteria 2000 (EC2000) categories defined by ABET, the sole accrediting agency for engineering programs in the United States. NSU recently launched its AEP following a year-long planning effort during which the engineering faculty drafted and approved a shared program mission statement, independent program objectives for electronics and optical engineering programs, and a shared list of program educational outcomes.

The department’s accreditation committee also conducted background research on assessment best practices in engineering education, carried out preliminary assessments using self-reported student and faculty surveys, and drafted the broad framework for the full assessment and evaluation program.

This targeted infusion project will strengthen the AEP design by developing discipline-specific student performance criteria descriptors for each of the program outcomes, creating a peer-reviewed electronic database of embedded assignments and questions with solutions, developing electronic tools to aid documentation and evaluation activities, and providing support for the completion of all documentation required for the NSU self-study report to ABET. A double round Delphi survey will be conducted to vet the materials produced through this project. The final products will be disseminated to the Delphi participant schools and through journal publications.