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Session 1793

ABET TC2K Preparation – A Web Based Approach Susan Scachitti, James Higley, and Gregory Neff Purdue University Calumet

Abstract

Purdue University Calumet, like all institutions with ABET accredited technology programs, is preparing for a TC2K visit. And, like similar institutions, Purdue University Calumet (PUC) has invested a great deal of time and energy in understanding the TC2K process and learning how it could benefit PUC programs. During several years of preparation, it became apparent that a web based approach to storing and presenting assessment data, continuous improvement results, and program goals offered many advantages. Hence, this paper presents efforts undertaken at Purdue University Calumet to motivate and train faculty on the new accreditation requirements as well as implementing a web based approach to presenting TC2K data. Perceived benefits to both the institution and ABET evaluators will be discussed.

Introduction

Prior to 2004, TAC/ABET accreditation was primarily concerned with inputs to a program with much emphasis on course topics covered by the curriculum. The adoption of Technology Criteria 2000 (commonly referred to as TC2K), drastically changed the focus of accreditation to the outputs of a program; i.e. what students are capable of doing. The change from accreditation based on program topics to outcomes based assessment is possibly the biggest driver for change in technology education since the beginning of technology programs. While TC2K was adopted in 2000, mandatory evaluations using the new criteria did not start until fall, 2004 visits. The next accreditation visit for PUC programs is fall, 2005. Since the adoption of the new criteria in 2000, Purdue University Calumet has been working towards compliance as discussed in previous papers. PUC technology faculty have worked at understanding the new accreditation process1, understanding continuous quality improvement3, building strategic plans3,4, and developing course embedded assessment techniques to assess and evaluate educational outcomes5.

At this time, much work remains to be done, but PUC faculty are now comfortable with the continuous improvement process. The faculty are now shifting from an understanding mode to an applying mode, and are starting to get results5. With this change in operation mode the question arose as to what method should be used for storing and archiving pertinent documents, records of efforts, and results. PUC faculty members who had attended an ISO/TS16949 Internal Auditor Training from Lloyd’s Register6 recognized similarities between requirements for documentation for ISO/TS certification for

Proceedings of the 2005 American Society for Engineering Education Annual Conference & Exposition Copyright © 2005, American Society for Engineering Education

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Higley, J., & Neff, G., & Scachitti, S. (2005, June), Abet Tc2 K Preparation – A Web Based Approach Paper presented at 2005 Annual Conference, Portland, Oregon. 10.18260/1-2--14427